Are you looking for a compact SUV that can handle your off-road adventures? Look no further than the best small SUVs off-road on the market. These vehicles come with 4-wheel drive, high ground clearance, all-terrain tires, stable suspension systems, and more off-road features such as skid plates and locking differentials.
These off-road vehicles are known for their reliability, performance, and off-road capabilities. In this blog post, we’ll explore 7 of the best small SUVs that are excellent for taking on any off-road trails.
Things to Consider to Buy the Best Small SUVs Off-road Journey
- 4-wheel drive: Look for a vehicle with a robust 4-wheel drive system that can handle rough terrain and steep inclines. A 4WD system allows for better traction and control when driving on uneven surfaces.
- Ground clearance: A higher ground clearance allows the vehicle to clear obstacles and traverse rough terrain more easily.
- Tires: Look for tires with all-terrain capabilities to provide better traction on dirt, mud, and rocks.
- Suspension: The best suspension system helps to absorb shocks and vibrations from rough terrain.
- Durability: Choose a vehicle with a durable build that can withstand the wear and tear of off-roading.
- Cargo space: Consider how much gear and equipment you’ll be bringing with you on your off-road adventures and choose a vehicle with enough cargo space to accommodate.
- Additional features like skid plates, locking differentials, and low-range gears can make a huge difference when off-roading.
Rugged and Reliable: The Best Small SUVs for Off-Road Trips
Here is the list of the best small SUVs for off-road family tours with high ground clearance and cargo space capacity.
1) Jeep Wrangler
2) Toyota 4Runner
3) Land Rover Discovery Sport
4) Subaru Crosstrek
5) BMW X3
6) Audi Q5
7) Volvo XC60
1) Jeep Wrangler
MSRP Starting From : $30,295
The Jeep Wrangler is arguably the best small scale SUV for off-roading. It has been a staple of the off-road scene since it resumed to be an iconic choice. The Wrangler is available in a two-door or four-door body style and features a strong engine, rugged suspension, and traction control. The four-wheel drive system provides outstanding grip and stability in rough terrain, making it one of the finest small SUVs for tackling off-road trails. The Wrangler also features a removable roof and doors, allowing you to enjoy the great outdoors.
The Jeep Wrangler has several engine choices, including a 3.6-liter V6 engine that delivers 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 engine are also available with a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Wrangler begins at 9.7 inches of ground clearance. The Wrangle has a cargo area with a capacity of 72.4 cubic feet.If you’re looking for a trustworthy, capable off-roader, the Jeep Wrangler is a great choice.
2) Toyota 4Runner
MSRP Starting From : $39,320
The Toyota 4Runner is one of the best mini SUVs for a weekend adventure. It has a robust, go-anywhere design that offers unique off-road capability. The 4Runner comes equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine, making it strong enough to tackle any terrain. It also features an adjustable suspension system that adapts to varying terrain conditions. 4Runners has an optimistic 9.0 inches of ground clearance with 47.2 cubic feet of cargo space.
The 4Runner has plenty of cargo space, so you can bring all the gear you require for your weekend adventure. The interior is relaxing and functional, making it an excellent choice for families. Plus, it’s trustworthy and affordable, making it a superb option for those on a budget. If you’re looking for a vehicle that can take you off the beaten path without breaking the bank, the Toyota 4Runner is one of the best small SUVs for weekend adventures.
3) Land Rover Discovery Sport
MSRP Starting From : $43,300
The Land Rover Discovery Sport is one of the best compact SUVs for off-road choices for weekend adventurers, as its compact size makes it easy to maneuver through tight spaces. With a powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the Discovery Sport can handle any terrain, making it one of the best off-road SUVs on the market. It has a cargo area with a capacity of 33.5 cubic feet with the rear seats up.The Discovery Sport has a Ground clearance of about 212mm.
It offers plenty of features, such as a panoramic sunroof, power liftgate, and advanced driver assistance systems. The interior is comfortable and spacious, allowing maximum passenger and cargo capacity. Its luxury off-road SUV design makes it look as good as it drives, and with its reliable suspension system, you can be sure that your vehicle will stay in top condition no matter how much you take it off-road.
4) Subaru Crosstrek
MSRP Starting From : $23,645
The Subaru Crosstrek is another good choice for those looking for a luxury off-road SUV. The Subaru comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
The Crosstrek offers an impressive 8.7 inches of ground clearance, which allows it to go off-roading in most terrain. It also has a standard all-wheel-drive system that can run on hard roads, trails, and mud. The Crosstrek is surprisingly competent on uneven terrain and can handle up to 23 inches of water.
Its standard technology features include Apple Car-Play, Android Auto, and an infotainment system with navigation. Safety features such as the Crosstrek come with blind spot monitoring, forward collision warning, lane keep assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Subaru is an excellent choice for those looking for a luxurious off-road SUV with plenty of power and off-road capability.
5) BMW X3
MSRP Starting From : $45,400
The BMW X3 is one of the best off-road SUVs & crossovers for families. With a powerful engine and capable all-wheel drive, the BMW X3 is ready to take you on the roads. This midsize luxury SUV has superior performance in any terrain, with eight driving modes. The BMW X3 has advanced technology, such as driver assistance features and an intuitive iDrive infotainment system. Families will appreciate the ample space, including more than 54 cubic feet of cargo volume.
The BMW X3 comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. A 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine is also available, which produces 382 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque. It has a ground clearance of 8.2 inches. Overall, the BMW X3 is an excellent choice for those looking for an off-road vehicle that can do it all.
6) Audi Q5
MSRP Starting From : $43,300
The Audi Q5 is one of the best small size SUVs for road trips. It has a comfortable and luxurious interior, excellent cargo space, and plenty of tech features to make your journey more enjoyable. The Q5 handles like a dream and offers a smooth ride. Its Quattro all-wheel-drive system also makes it an excellent choice for off-road excursions.
With a powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and 8-speed automatic transmission, the Q5 is fuel efficient.
The Q5 safety features like lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and automated emergency braking. Audi Q5 offers 8.2 inches of ground clearance. The rear seat is a roomy 25.85 cubic feet. If you’re looking for a reliable and capable SUV for your next road trip, the Audi Q5 is an excellent choice.
7) Volvo XC60
MSRP Starting From : $43,450
The Volvo XC60 is one of the best new small off-road SUVs on the market. It has a rugged exterior and plenty of features to make it capable of tackling any terrain. The XC60 comes with an impressive 8-inch ground clearance and full-time all-wheel drive. Its cargo space capacity is 22.4 cubic feet, offering 9.1 inches of ground clearance.
It offers several driver-assist technologies like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and driver alertness monitoring. Inside the XC60, you’ll find a luxurious cabin with comfortable leather seats, a touchscreen infotainment system, and an easy-to-use climate control system. Overall, the Volvo XC60 is an excellent choice for those looking for a small SUV that can handle any terrain.
What are You Needed before Going on an Off-Road Trip?
Before going on an off-road trip, it’s essential to have the following items:
- A well-maintained vehicle: Make sure your car is in good working condition. It’s a good idea to have the oil and fluids checked, brakes and tires checked, and all lights and signals working.
- Proper off-road equipment: This includes items such as a winch, tow straps, a spare tire, and a jack.
- Navigation tools: Have a good map or a GPS device.
- Communication devices: Bring a two-way radio or a satellite phone in case of an emergency.
- Recovery gear: Bring a set of recovery straps, a snatch block, and a set of D-rings to help you to get out of sticky situations.
- Safety equipment: Pack a first-aid kit, a fire extinguisher, and a flare.
- Personal protective gear: Bring appropriate clothing and footwear for the conditions, as well as protective gear such as helmets, goggles, gloves, and a dust mask.
- Food and water: Bring enough food and water for the trip, including a portable water filter or purification tablets.
- Emergency supplies: Bring a flashlight, a whistle, a mirror, and a signaling device such as a flare gun or a strobe light.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to off-road adventures, small SUVs are an outstanding option for those who want the convenience of a compact vehicle with the capability to tackle rough terrain. If you’re in the market for a small SUV that can handle your off-road adventures, check out our comprehensive reviews and comparisons of these top models. And remember, it is essential to consider your specific off-road needs and preferences when choosing the best small SUV for your adventures.
FAQ Regarding The Best Small SUVs Off-Road
Q.1) Are small SUVs good for off-roading?
Small SUVs can be best for off-roading because they come with 4-wheel drive, high ground clearance, all-terrain tires, a durable suspension system, and additional off-road features such as skid plates and locking differentials.
Q.2) What type of suspension system is best for small SUVs off-roading?
A coil spring suspension system is typically the best option for off-roading in small SUVs. The coil spring suspension system offers superb off-road performance, as it can absorb shocks and vibrations from rough terrain.Â
Q.3) What type of tires are best for small SUVs off-roading?
All-terrain tires are typically the most suitable option for small SUVs off-roading, as they deliver a balance of on-road and off-road performance. They have an in-depth tread that can provide better traction on dirt, mud, and rocks.Â
Q.4) Can small SUVs be equipped with skid plates?
Many small SUVs can be equipped with skid plates to protect the undercarriage from damage when off-roading. It also protects the vehicle’s vulnerable components like oil and transmission pan.Â
