The whole reason SUVs gained popularity back in the 1990s was their unique combination of ruggedness and interior space. Fast forward to today where most SUVs or crossovers have essentially replaced the minivan with many lacking any true off-road chops beyond a dirt road or a grassy parking lot. On the other hand, there are still a few SUVs that are focused on off-road performance but that are punishing in an everyday commute. If you’re looking for a good balance of off-road capabilities with on-road comfort, check out this list of Six SUVs that are Great Off Road and On.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Bucking the trend of most early-era SUVs, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has shown that you don’t need a truck-like, body-on-frame SUV to have an exceptional off-roader. The unibody Grand Cherokee has not only made a name for itself as one of the premier all-terrain SUVs on the market thanks to a trio of four-wheel-drive system options and its Selec-Terrain system as well as the optional Quadra-Lift adjustable air suspension system that can help provide up to 9.3 inches of ground clearance. There’s even a removable portion of the front fascia that maximizes approach angle. In addition to its go-anywhere attitude, the Jeep Grand Cherokee balances its ruggedness with a smooth, on-road driving comfort. It is also available in some surprisingly luxurious models like the Overland and Summit. The Grand offers three engine choices including the fuel-efficient EcoDiesel. The best part is that you can get a basic 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4x4 in the low $32,000 range, although if you’re looking for a plush, fully loaded model, be prepared to spend closer to $50,000.
Land Rover LR4
After the Grand Cherokee, the tried-and-true Range Rover might be the next best SUV offering excellent capabilities both on- and off-road, but it does so at a price coming in at nearly three times as much as a base Jeep Grand Cherokee. The Range Rover’s little brother, the Land Rover LR4, is equally proficient in traversing any terrain, and it does so with a boxy, classic styling that the current-generation Range Rover sadly moved away from. The Land Rover cant tackle the trails thanks to its proven Terrain Response system and an adjustable air suspension that can provide almost 10 inches of ground clearance, and its supercharged V-6 can help motor through and/or over just about any obstacle this SUV encounters. Adding to the LR4’s resume is a set of nifty rear jump seats that makes the LR4 the most capable three-row SUV on the market, and it does so with a luxurious and accommodating interior layout. Depending on the model, a new Land Rover LR4 will set you back at least $50,625 for the base model and topping $60,000 for the top trim.
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