The Five Best Off-Road SUVs for 2019
When you’re an adventurous soul with a passion for off-roading, you need the right SUV. And not all SUVs are equal. An off-road SUV should be strong, durable, reliable, and able to perform in some of harshest environments. But with so many vehicle options out there, it can be hard to know which SUV is best for your adventurous lifestyle. Here are 5 of 2019’s best off-road SUVs that will help you live your life to the max.
1. Land Rover Discovery
An upscale cabin and plush interior make the 2019 Land Rover Discovery one the best off-road SUVs for adventuring in luxury. Three rows of spacious seating, purposely-designed windows for trailside viewing, and a max ground clearance of 11.1 inches prove the Discovery is meant to be enjoyed off the beaten path. You’ll also get an intuitive all-wheel-drive system and a customizable terrain-management system. The Discovery can crawl over obstacles thanks to its excellent approach and departure angles. Plus, it can wade through up to 35.4 inches of water. Available engine choices include a 3.0-liter gasoline engine with 340 hp and a towing capacity of about 8,200 lbs, as well as a 3.0-liter diesel engine with 254 hp and a towing capacity of around 7,700 lbs.
2. Toyota 4Runner Pro
Earning the right as of one of the best off-road SUVs for decades, the Toyota 4Runner can be ordered with the TRD Pro package that gives you Grappler tires designed for off-roading traction, plus other off-roading necessities like four-wheel drive, electronic locking rear differential, and superb ground clearance. It also has 2.5 internal-bypass dampers, extra thick skid plates on the underbody, and a flexible cargo hold with multiple, large cubbies. The 4Runner Pro comes with a 4.0-liter, 270-hp engine, a front suspension with stabilizer bar, a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, and the ability to handle any road ahead.
3. Jeep Wrangler
The best off-road SUVs list wouldn’t be the same without the iconic, military-inspired Jeep Wrangler. Still here to impress, the 2019 Wrangler comes in two-door and four-door models, all with four-wheel-drive and removable doors and tops. You’ll find 10.9-inches of ground clearance and two solid axles that share a two-speed transfer case and low-range gear ratios. You can climb any hurdle with 33-inch all-terrain tires and a detachable anti-roll bar for the front. The Wrangler has an approach angle of 44 degrees, a departure angle of 37 degrees, and a choice between automatic or manual transmissions. Its base engine is a 285 hp, 3.6L V6, with an option to upgrade to a turbocharged four-cylinder.
4. Mercedes-Benz G-Class
Mercedes-Benz has become a status symbol, but there’s a reason why the G-Class is one of the best off-road SUVs out there. It’s been designed from the ground up for adventuring, with substantial seating and cargo room, too. The G-Class comes with 9.5 inches of ground clearance and drivability through up to almost 28-inches of water. An automatic transmission is the only option, with all-wheel drive and a 4.0-liter V8 engine. There are options for 3 locking differentials for various climbs, an independent front suspension, and a lower center of gravity than years before.
5. Toyota Land Cruiser
The Toyota Land Cruiser is pricey but fully worth it to the right customer. It comes with everything you need from the best off-roading SUVs, like a standard four-wheel drive system, skid plates to protect the underbody, and a self-leveling suspension. The 2019 Land Cruiser also has a locking center differential and a variety of technological assists to handle any terrain, like the off-road turn assist and crawl control. There’s even an underbody camera to keep an eye on obstacles underneath you. Power comes from a 381-hp 5.7-liter V8 engine. The Land Cruiser can seat up to 8 people and has a towing capacity of up to 8,100 lbs.
All images provided by the manufacturer unless otherwise noted.