The best used cars to buy if you love off-road
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The best used cars to buy if you love off-road

09.11.2022 /

The best choice for off-road is a 4×4 off-road vehicle. However, depending on the model you like best, you may need to shop around a bit to find a good used one. This is simply because SUVs are usually very attached to…

The best choice for off-road is a 4×4 off-road vehicle. However, depending on the model you like best, you may need to shop around a bit to find a good used one. This is simply because off-road vehicles tend to get very attached to their setups and often continue to drive them until they just don't steer.

However, you will probably enjoy looking for the exact SUV that suits you. Our favorites are the Nissan Infiniti QX80, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Wrangler, Lexus GX 460 and Nissan XTerra.

  • Nissan Infiniti QX80: It's a huge luxury SUV with a super-comfortable ride, but when it comes to off-road, it makes a difference. In automatic mode, rear-wheel drive sends torque to the front wheels as needed. However, once you switch to all-wheel drive, the torque is split 50/50. The traction control system automatically slows down naughty wheels if you start to slip.

  • Jeep Grand Cherokee: For two decades, the Grand Cherokee has proven itself when it comes to off-road capability. With the Adventure II package, you get air suspension with an incredible 10.4 inches of ground clearance and 20 inches of water fording, meaning you can go just about anywhere.

  • Jeep Wrangler: For hardcore SUVs, the Wrangler has traditionally been the choice. The base model is quite respectable, but if you want to take it up a notch, go for the Rubicon model. It includes electronically-locking differentials and lives up to even its namesake Rubicon Trail. It's not the most comfortable car for everyday driving, but off-road it's great.

  • Lexus GX 460: This luxury SUV may look great, but don't let the looks fool you. It is built on a full frame with a center differential for 50/50 torque distribution when the going gets tough. Add to that the KDDS (Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System) that reduces chassis roll and you have a highly reliable SUV for beginners and professionals alike.

  • Nissan Exterra: Xterra is an affordable SUV with real off-road ability. Make sure you buy a 4x4 model though - the XTerra is also available with all-wheel drive, which looks nice but won't give you what you need off-road. However, the 4×4 model can handle some pretty tough trails.

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