SUVs for Off-Roading

Nissan Xterra, other truck-based SUVs excel in off-road use

None of the traditional truck-based SUVs get the high ratings or recommendations given to the popular midsize crossover SUVs. But for individuals and families who need to tow a trailer or like to spend their weekends on challenging off-road trails, the best vehicles for the job are body-on-frame SUVs. One of the best traditional-style four-wheelers is the 2009 Nissan Xterra (*Est. $22,310 to $29,340), a five-passenger midsize SUV powered by a 261-horsepower V-6 that's mated to either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. In a five-vehicle comparison test conducted by Motor Trend's Truck Trend, the Xterra wins the contest as the vehicle with the fewest compromises for daily driving on and off road. Editors like its blend of value and style, commenting, "The exterior design matches its pure capability and functional personality." Edmunds.com points out that some of the interior materials leave a bit to be desired, but they point out that the Nissan Xterra's overall versatility is what makes it so attractive, saying it's "an excellent choice for the weekend off-road warrior who still needs an SUV civilized enough for the Monday-through-Friday commute."

Jeep Wrangler, Toyota FJ Cruiser combine capability with classic looks

Truck Trend's off-road runner-up is an American icon: the 2009 Jeep Wrangler (*Est. $20,710 to $32,090). Jeep's traditional and rugged SUV earns Kelley Blue Book's Best Resale Value award for SUVs, as well as its Recommended endorsement. The distinctively styled Jeep Wrangler is offered as a two-door or an extended-wheelbase four-door called the Wrangler Unlimited, the latter of which has quickly become its most popular body style. While reviewers love the Wrangler's off-road superiority, they are less fond of its stiff ride (a common and expected tradeoff for off-road prowess), low interior refinement, poor fuel economy and thoroughly vexing soft-top operation.

Another outstanding midsize SUV is the retro 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser (*Est. $23,320 to $24,910), with styling reminiscent of Toyota's classic FJ40-series Land Cruiser models sold throughout the '60s and '70s. The FJ Cruiser has the modern four-wheel-drive hardware to back up its rugged looks for climbing rocky trails and fording streams. Although it's bigger than most compact SUVs, it still only offers seating for five. Small doors that open rearward make it awkward to get to the back seats, reviewers say. Wide roof pillars pose a significant obstacle to rear visibility as well.

The 2009 Toyota 4Runner (*Est. $28,640 to $39,360) also has a well-deserved reputation for off-road toughness, and it is rated high in value by Kiplinger.com. Reliability and resale value also get good marks. An available third-row seat in the Toyota 4Runner is small and doesn't fold flat. For a slightly roomier alternative, reviews point to the 2009 Nissan Pathfinder (*Est. $27,210 to $40,210), but critics still say the third row is too small for adults.

Now in its 19th year of production, the 2009 Ford Explorer (*Est. $28,470 to $39,180) is a truck-based SUV that offers a reasonably spacious third row. The Explorer comes with either V-6 or V-8 power, and when properly equipped, it can tow up to a 7,300-pound trailer, although fuel mileage and acceleration with either engine is unimpressive. The 2009 Mercury Mountaineer (*Est. $28,700 to $35,030) is basically a rebadged Ford Explorer.

Among other five-passenger SUVs, the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee (*Est. $30,450 to $44,845) offers a wide range of engine choices and earns a Best in Class title from Truck Trend for its off-road capability, but offers less cargo and passenger space than its rivals. The 2009 Hummer H3 (*Est. $33,390 to $43,130) also excels off road, but fails to impress most reviewers for everyday driving. The 2009 Kia Sorento (*Est. $21,545 to $27,245) offers a low base price and a long warranty, but critics say there are better alternatives at similar prices.