Consumers' Favorites: Best Off-Roader

The dust has cleared and we have the results for the Favorite Off-Roader. For decades, the Jeep Wrangler (and its "CJ" forebears) has been the go-to vehicle if your destination would've otherwise required a pack mule or helicopter to access. No surprise then that the Wrangler romped in this survey, with fully 35 percent of the votes in its favor. Next up was its chief (and nearly as capable) rival, the Toyota FJ Cruiser, which offers more passenger and cargo space at the expense of not being able to negotiate the tighter spots the Wrangler can get itself into. Taking 3rd place is the Nissan Xterra, another rugged SUV that is geared toward those not afraid to get themselves or their vehicle really, really, dirty.

If your favorite didn't crack the top three, see where your fellow readers placed it by checking out the rankings shown below. And don't forget to exercise your right to vote for your favorite in our next Consumers' Favorites poll.

1. 

   1. Jeep Wrangler

What Edmunds.com says:
The 2009 Jeep Wrangler can't be beat for heritage, image and no-compromises off-road ability. But compared to some other SUVs, it lacks refinement and power.

What Edmunds.com says:
It's not the most versatile choice available, but if distinctive looks and outstanding off-road ability are important to you in a midsize SUV, the 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser is hard to top.

What Edmunds.com says:
The 2009 Nissan Xterra makes an excellent choice for the weekend off-road warrior who still needs an SUV civilized enough for the Monday-through-Friday commute.

What Edmunds.com says:
With rising gas prices gluing full-size trucks to dealer lots, folks who still need a pickup's utility should find that the midsize and more fuel-efficient 2009 Toyota Tacoma is an ideal alternative.

What Edmunds.com says:
In true Jeep form, the 2009 Liberty remains a champ off-road. But despite further improvements to ride and handling, most competitors are superior in terms of everyday drivability, fuel economy and overall refinement.

What Edmunds.com says:
The 2009 Nissan Frontier is a top pick for a compact pickup, thanks to its brawny nature and innovative features.

What Edmunds.com says:
The 2009 Ford Ranger is affordable and competent off-road when properly equipped. Due to its aged design, however, it falls short in many other areas, making just about any other small or midsize pickup a better choice.

What Edmunds.com says:
Boasting all the goodness of its Nissan Frontier twin, the 2009 Suzuki Equator also offers a few additional features, making this dark horse a top pick in the midsize pickup truck derby.

What Edmunds.com says:
The 2009 Dodge Dakota does have a potent V8 engine and lots of tow capacity, but other, more affordable midsize pickups are nearly as capable and have more refinement.

What Edmunds.com says:
Unless the dealer makes an offer you can't refuse, we advise you to avoid the outdated 2009 Mazda B-Series. More modern compact pickups are available for around the same list price.