When you think of off-roading, you probably think of trucks and tough SUVs. However, there are a number of versatile vehicles on the market that are designed for comfort and style, but they also handle surprisingly well off-road. You may not have realized it but each of these nine cars was built for driving off the beaten path.
1. Subaru Outback
Subarus are great because almost all of them are four-wheel-drive. While it may look like a regular family wagon, the Outback is extremely capable off-road. It handles well on gravel roads, snows, and light off-road trails thanks to the symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. Additionally, the Outback has raised ground clearance that gives it the upper hand when compared to other crossovers. Despite being able to do all of this, it’s still a comfortable ride that offers efficient fuel economy, making it a true hidden gem in the off-road vehicle market.
2. Volvo V90 Cross Country
Volvo probably doesn’t cross your mind when you are thinking about off-roading. However, the V90 Cross Country is built to handle some rough terrain. Like the Outback, it has all-wheel drive and an increased ride height that allows it to maneuver well on most surfaces. Something that sets the Volvo V90 Cross Country apart from other off-roading vehicles is that it features hill descent control. Not to mention, when you sit inside, you’ll be greeted with premium materials and advanced technology, which makes it the ideal choice for long road trips or off-road adventures.
3. Audi A4 Allroad
I love the Audi A4 Allroad. It’s often seen as a luxury car, but believe it or not, it was made with off-roading in mind. The A4 Allroad comes equipped with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system, making it comfortable to drive through dirt, mud, and uneven terrain. It also has adaptive suspension that will automatically adjust to provide the best amount of ground clearance, depending on where you are driving. As an Audi, it also has all of the bells and whistles you’d expect on the inside. It’s the perfect choice for those who want sophistication and ruggedness in one package.
4. Mini Cooper Countryman
I wouldn’t normally ever recommend the Mini Cooper Countryman, but it is one of those vehicles that you look at and don’t necessarily think it could go off-road. But it can. It’s got an all-wheel drive that makes it capable of handling dirt roads, snow, and mild off-road trails. The Countryman also sits a bit higher than the Mini Cooper, which allows it to drive over rougher terrain. One of the things that might give the Countryman a bit of an edge is its compact size which makes it easier to drive on tight trails.
5. Mercedes-Benz GLA
You probably don’t think of Mercedes when you think about off-road vehicles either. The GLA is a compact luxury crossover that can do more than just drive city streets. It’s equipped with Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel drive, making it possible to maneuver rugged trails and tough weather conditions. You might be surprised to find out it even has an off-road mode that helps optimize traction and stability on rough terrain. It may not look it, but the GLA is up for the task whether you’re climbing a mountain road or navigating a rainy day in the city.
6. Honda Ridgeline
Honda’s Ridgeline may not look like it can take much in terms of off-roading, but it’s actually quite capable. Again, it has an all-wheel-drive system that works to its advantage when you take it off the paved road. Best of all, the Ridgeline comes with an in-bed trunk and dual-action tailgate. This makes it great for all kinds of outdoor adventures. If you want a truck that can go off-road but still feels like an SUV, this is the one to consider.
7. Ford Bronco Sport
Ford revived the Bronco in 2020. While it might be overlooked as an off-road machine, it is every bit as capable as the other vehicles on this list. Of course, it has an all-wheel-drive system, but what sets the Bronco Sport apart is its GOAT (Goes Over Any Terrain) modes. You can adjust the vehicle settings for sand, snow, mud, and other terrain types. Its overall design and durability make it a favorite for those who enjoy going off-roading.
8. Lexus GX
Lexus is often seen as another luxury brand, but it has cars that are very capable off-road. The GX is one of them. It has a four-wheel-drive system and body-on-frame build that makes it handle incredibly well on tough trails. One cool feature it has is the crawl control feature, which allows the vehicle to maintain a steady pace over rough roads. Then, when you get inside, you’ll be met with premium materials and advanced tech. It’s really the best of both worlds.
9. Volkswagen Golf Alltrack
Volkswagen has several great off-road capable vehicles, but many people might not think the Alltrack is one of them by looking at it. It appears to be a sporty station wagon, but it has all-wheel drive and even comes equipped with an off-road mode. This enables it to handle dirt paths, gravel roads, and some light trails. Of course, it provides all the creature comforts you’d expect from a Volkswagen. But don’t let its stylish look trick you, it does really well off the beaten path.
Discover Hidden Off-Road Power
While many of these cars might not seem like they could be taken off-road, each of them is quite capable. Whether you want a luxury vehicle or a compact crossover, there are plenty of options available for lovers of the outdoors. With one of these vehicles, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: luxury and adventure.