Outdoorsy Autos: The Best Vehicles for Exploring Nature

Off-Roading, Overlanding and Safariing are some of the hottest trends in cars and trucks right now. Countless assemblers, tuners and OEMs have joined the action and are building some of the coolest and most capable outdoor touring vehicles.

So, what to ride if you want to see the world off the beaten track? It has to be XNUMXWD or XNUMXWD, durable, customizable to suit your needs and not only take you to remote areas, but bring you back home!

When "standard option" doesn't fit, we have a selection of off-road adventure vehicles that will blow your mind!

Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison is true off-road talent in a smart mid-size pickup

The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison is an impressive truck. The standard ZR2 comes with a wider track, a two-inch increase in height, lockable front and rear differentials, and tricky Multimatic Spool Valve dampers. The Bison package is a collaboration with America Expedition Vehicles (AEM) and adds a host of body protection features.

AEM adds heavy duty front and rear bumpers, the front bumper can accommodate a winch, and five skid plates help protect the bottom of the truck. Think of it like armor for the ZR2. The ZR2 Bison can be equipped with a diesel four-cylinder engine or a V6 petrol engine. Diesel is the best choice for serious off-road use.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk is a high-end SUV that can take you to the mountains

Of the eleven Grand Cherokee trim levels Jeep offers, the Trailhawk is the most off-road-oriented. While all Grand Cherokee models are powerful off-road vehicles, the Trailhawk is the most powerful, and with increased ground clearance, off-road tires, accessible rock rails and distinctive looks, this is the Grand Cherokee for those who prefer the rocky road. mountain path above the mall parking lot.

The Trailhawk is available with either a Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 or an 360-horsepower 5.7-liter Hemi V8. Any engine is paired with the excellent Quadra Driver II 4x4 system, which has a limited slip rear differential to keep you moving through rough terrain.

A big ford is coming and it could take you back in time!

Ford Raptor is a faster and more fun truck that just begs for it

In 2010, Ford introduced the world to the Raptor, an off-road version of the F411 pickup truck with a 8 horsepower V150 engine, modeled after desert racing trucks. The second generation (2017-present) ditched the V8 in favor of a 450 hp twin-turbocharged V6.

Any generation is capable of high-speed off-road shenanigans, and thanks to Fox Racing's adaptive dampers and Trail Control electronic system, the Raptor is capable of giving you a lot of trouble and then backing off safely. These trucks offer a wealth of after-sales support and are extremely easy to customize to your specific needs, making them a great choice for seeing the world away from the freeway.

Jeep Cherokee XJ - simple, reliable and almost indestructible

Despite its age, the Jeep Cherokee XJ (1983-2001) is still a versatile, up-to-date SUV with a reputation for being "indestructible." Aftermarket support for the XJ is huge, and these trucks can be built for rock crawling, landing, camping, and everything in between.

Rust can be a problem on sill panels, doors, and side panels, so it's a good idea to find it in an area that doesn't experience harsh winters and road salt. They are extremely personable and off-road capable, making them a favorite expedition vehicle.

The Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro is an attractive off-road vehicle with unrivaled capabilities that can go anywhere

Few things can beat the 4Runner TRD Pro off-road, and the 4Runner is one of the few off-road frame SUVs on the market. It features off-road tuned FOX shocks, locking differentials, custom 17-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, skid plates and a range of styling accessories.

While the 4Runner is starting to show its age, in terms of interior design, powertrain and chassis, it hasn't lost any of its off-road qualities. Few new cars can keep up with it on the track, and with plenty of aftermarket support, it can be equipped for any condition.

Honda Africa Twin - half wheels, twice the fun!

You weren't ready for this choice! Sometimes two wheels can be better than four, and the Honda Africa Twin is a sensationally stunning bike that will immerse you in nature and tackle any terrain you throw at it.

The beauty of an adventure bike is that without a roof, doors or windows, you stop looking at nature as it passes by and start being part of it. Only a motorcycle like the Africa Twin can immerse you in adventure and open you up to outdoor possibilities in a way you never thought possible.

The classic bruzer is coming and you won't believe who's making it!

Land Rover Discovery - for those who crawl more on rocks than in malls

As the name suggests, Discovery is designed to take you on an adventure, treading uncharted paths and discovering nature that few have seen in person. The middle child in the Land Rover lineup, the Discovery is widely regarded as the most off-road vehicle of them all, at least until the arrival of the new Defender.

Available with a supercharged V6 engine or a turbocharged V6 diesel engine, it has enough power for any trail, mountain or desert. And don't think for a second that the suave exterior and luxurious interior mean it's just a mall crawler; "Disco" can overcome almost two and a half feet of water.

Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro - unchanged for the better part of a decade

Like the 4Runner, the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro feels like an ageless marvel. Like the return of Tiger Woods, Taco continues to challenge the naysayers and perform at the highest level.

TRD-tuned FOX off-road shocks, skid plates, a performance Cat-Back exhaust, and a reputation for durability and reliability make the Tacoma TRD Pro an excellent choice for expeditions and off-road. And with a towing capacity of 6400 pounds, it can easily take your toys and gear with you.

Land Rover Defender - the quintessence of a legendary safari

When Sir David Attenborough shoots in nature, what does he use to get there? Defender. When you see tourists on safari in Africa, what do they ride? Defender. When you see rangers tracking down elephants, lions and photographing hippos, what do they ride? Defender.

There's a very good reason why the Land Rover Defender is the quintessential safari vehicle and the choice of the British military: it's simple, reliable and capable of navigating anything but lava flow. They are not full of luxury, but they are filled with abilities.

There is another Ford ahead and he wants to take you to new lands!

Ford Ranger FX4 - The prodigal son returns with off-road chops

After an eight-year absence, the mighty Ford Ranger has returned to the US market. The mid-size truck is available in two versions: super cab (two-door) or super-crew (four-door) in three trim levels.

For those looking for maximum performance on surfaces other than concrete, the FX4 Off-Road package is an additional choice. With this option, you get off-road tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, skid plates, an electronically locking rear differential, and Ford's Terrain Management System to help you navigate tough challenges while maintaining control of the vehicle.

The Mercedes-Benz G550 is a luxury SUV capable of more than you think

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class was originally developed as a military vehicle and offered as a civilian model in 1979. Reliable, rugged and extremely competent in all conditions, the US Marine Corps purchased some 160 vehicles for use as fast combat vehicles.

If it's good enough to satisfy US Marines and military around the world, it's certainly capable of taking you on camping vacations, and in its current form, you'll be conquering mountains shrouded in luxury. The G550 is a better off-road choice than its AMG counterpart as the AMG model is tuned for road performance.

Toyota Land Cruiser ANY - for hostile and remote places

These trucks are so durable and reliable that they have become a cliché. If you're going somewhere hostile and remote with the worst conditions you can imagine, you need a Land Cruiser.

Each version of the Land Cruiser has the ability to surprise with its tenacity, and none will disappoint when it comes to traversing off-road terrain. Earlier models are becoming collectible and rare, so models from the 1980s and 1990s are best acquired for nature exploration. They are widely available, relatively inexpensive, and easily customizable with skid plates, bumpers, cargo racks, and other off-road items.

Jeep Wrangler is the best default SUV

If you ask 10 people to name a car that you can drive off-road, explore nature and use every day, 9 of those people will choose a Jeep Wrangler. This SUV hasn't changed much since Willys-Overland introduced the first civilian Jeep CJ in 1945.

This is an impressive result and proof that the winning formula is hard to improve. While the Wrangler in all its forms may not be the most perfect vehicle on the road, it is undoubtedly one of the most capable off-road vehicles and is the benchmark by which all others are measured.

Land Rover Range Rover is an SUV icon with space age technology and comfort

Most Range Rovers will never see the rocky cliffs of the Alpine slopes or the treacherous dunes of the Sahara desert. In fact, they climb the Hollywood Hills more often than the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. But don't let its posh lifestyle fool you, underneath that carefully tailored body lurks an off-road beast.

Range Rover capabilities are legendary, and the latest version is the best in the family. Able to traverse three feet of water and climb a 45-degree slope, this large truck is nearly unstoppable in any terrain and conditions while keeping its passengers calm, cool and comfortable.

Ram Power Wagon - the SUV of your dreams

Ram Power Wagon is The incredible Hulk off-road pickups. A 6.4-horsepower 8-liter HEMI V410 motivates this beast, and Bilstein suspension components with chunky off-road tires ensure it doesn't get stuck. If you happen to find yourself stranded, the 12,000-pound WARN winch will ensure you get out with ease.

It's a truck that doesn't do things subtly, it's a truck that navigates adverse conditions, and it's a great choice for use on extreme expeditions, towing large campers, and exploring unknown places.

You didn't think we'd miss Subaru, did you?

Subaru Outback - more capable than it should be

Few things scream "outdoors" quite like the Subaru Outback. For those who prefer adventure, family hauling and driving miles, there are several cars that can do it all just like the Outback.

While it may lack the extreme off-road capabilities of a Wrangler or Land Rover, the "Subie" is no slouch with 8.7 inches of ground clearance and signature symmetrical all-wheel drive. Pair that with a van body that will devour the whole family and all their camping gear, and you have an almost perfect vehicle for outdoor adventures.

Mercedes-Benz Unimog - unstoppable off-road power

Mercedes-Benz Unimog is a force of nature. Originally used to haul heavy loads to the most remote corners of the world or as a military vehicle, the Unimog has become a favorite among off-roaders, adventurers and those looking to explore the most extreme places on the planet.

Most Unimogs are offered in industrial and heavy-duty trims, but Mercedes also offers an off-road camper version specifically designed to take you and all your gear to places most people have never seen. Used Unimogs are plentiful, highly customizable, and nearly indestructible. In fact, there's a good chance the terrain will collapse before your Unimog does.

Ariel the Nomad - Enjoy the great outdoors at warp speed

What do you get when you combine a buggy, an ATV and a sports car? You receive Ariel the Nomad. Powered by a four-cylinder Honda engine, the Nomad can get you to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds, and with adjustable suspension and rally wheels, it can do it on just about any terrain.

Lightweight, durable and reliable are the attributes of the Nomad, and few off-road vehicles can offer as much fun in such a unique package. The beauty of Nomad is that it's fast, fun to drive, and gives you the freedom to explore the world anywhere.

The Nissan Titan XD Pro-4X is the best Japanese SUV you forgot about.

In a category that includes trucks like the F150, Silverado, Ram 1500 and Tundra, it's easy to forget there's another option. Another option is the Nissan Titan XD Pro-4X. It may not grace the headlines like its competitors, but Nissan's burly truck can definitely keep up with the best.

Nissan's full-size pickup truck can be equipped with the Pro-4X Off-Road Package, which adds Bilstein off-road suspension, an electronically locking rear differential, skid plates and powerful all-terrain tires. A 390-liter V5.6 with 8 horsepower delivers the power and makes the Titan a true off-road exploration off-road vehicle.

Volkswagen Golf Alltrack - raised all-wheel drive fighter Subaru Fighter

The Volkswagen Alltrack is a hidden gem of a car that is sadly overshadowed by the Subaru Outback. But if you're looking for an alternative to Subaru's adventure wagon, the Alltrack is a great choice. Powered by VW's stellar 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, you get 168 horsepower and the ability to pair that with a six-speed manual transmission (enthusiasts rejoice!).

But don't think VW takes a knife into a gunfight, Alltrack has some off-road weapons to use in the foreground. 4Motion all-wheel drive with “off-road mode” helps the station wagon navigate difficult terrain, descend steep slopes and keep adventures under control.