Buying a vehicle with off-road capabilities is often the smart option for many car buyers for many reasons. Aside from its larger storage capability and versatility, the chance to go on the road with family and friends for an off-road adventure sounds extra fun when you have a reliable vehicle. This is one reason why trucks and SUVs have become highly sought after.
Soft-Roading Vehicles
Enjoying off-road adventures with the right vehicle is essential for safe and fun travel. But that doesn't mean you just go out and get yourself the toughest vehicle available. It's important to know the type of off-road adventures you're going to have.
If you're planning to drive to parks with non-paved roads but maintained for general road use, you can always go for vehicles with "soft-roading" capabilities. SUVs often have 6-8 inches of ground clearance which should be more than enough for most roads, even the non-paved ones.
For a clearer idea of SUV ground clearances, the following are the ground clearance of some popular SUVs
- Toyota RAV4 - 7.5 to 7.9 inches
- Honda CR-V - 7.8 to 8.2 inches
- Tesla Model Y - 6.6 inches
- Nissan Rogue - 8.2 inches
- Jeep Grand Cherokee - 10.9 inches
Except for the Jeep Grand Cherokee, all the mentioned vehicles are well suited for soft-road driving. They are perfect for your weekend adventures and they are versatile enough to serve as your daily driver because of their low fuel consumption compared to full off-road vehicles.
Off-Roading Vehicles
For more challenging off-road adventures, a vehicle with better ground clearance is essential. The Jeep Grand Cherokee stands out with 10.9 inches of ground clearance.
Here are five more options to consider::
- Rivian R1S - 14.9 inches
- Mercedes-Benz G-Class - 13.8 inches
- Jeep Wrangler - 12.9 inches
- Ford Bronco - 13.1 inches
- Land Rover Range Rover - 11.6 inches
In addition to their impressive ground clearance, which protects the undercarriage, these vehicles come with additional features specifically designed to upgrade their off-road capability. For example, the Rivian R1S and the Land Rover Range Rover come with adjustable air suspension systems.
Upgrading Your Vehicle for the Ultimate Off-Road Adventure
Off-road enthusiasts push the capabilities of their vehicles with appropriate upgrades. If you're planning to upgrade your vehicle before your next off-road adventures, better check the following:
Suspension - Upgrading your vehicle's suspension can increase its ground clearance and improve stability, even in challenging rocky terrain.
Tires - A bigger tire with off-road capacity should do wonders on your next outdoor adventure.
Articulation - Articulation will help your off-road vehicle handle uneven terrains and more.
In conclusion, a vehicle with a relatively high ground clearance is an ideal choice for off-road adventures. Vehicles with at least six inches of clearance from the ground should be perfect for a fun and safe outdoor trip. However, a higher ground clearance is highly recommended for those looking for an extra challenge for their off-road vehicles.
