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Nearly every SUV on our list comes with four-wheel drive and off-road-oriented tires, and those that don't promise other benefits off-road. Most SUVs on our list also come with a numerically higher axle ratio, which increases the physical torque that goes from the engine to the wheels. Combine off-road-ready features with the smooth delivery of low-end torque and you're off to a great start.
For hardcore off-roading you'll want a vehicle equipped with four-wheel drive with low-range gearing, or "4-Lo," as opposed to all-wheel-drive without the 4-Lo option. The differences mean a lot when you're deep into off-road territory, and having proper dual-range four-wheel drive can significantly decrease your likelihood of getting stuck. While all-wheel drive has its merits for light-duty off-road adventures, the very best of the best use four-wheel drive for a reason. For all the details on the differences between the two, check out our exhaustive AWD vs. 4WD breakdown.
Along with four-wheel drive, tire choice is very important when you explore the great outdoors, with knobby all-terrain tires allowing for more grip in rocky, muddy and just generally slippery situations. These off-road-focused tires will decrease fuel economy a bit, but they'll provide much more capability when you need it the most. Abundant ground clearance is also top of mind when it comes to off-road priorities. The higher off the ground you are, the less likely you are to get caught on a rock, a stump or an obstacle of any kind. You're also less likely to flood the engine or the cabin at water crossings.
High ground clearance is often paired with improved approach, departure and breakover angles. The approach angle is calculated at the front of the vehicle, while the departure angle is calculated at the back. One easy way to think of these angles is in terms of their relationship to the bumpers and tires of a vehicle: The closer the tires are to the front and rear of the car, the higher the approach and departure angles are and the more capable a vehicle will be off-road. High approach and departure angles mean you're less likely to scrape a bumper or get one stuck and stop your progress entirely. A high breakover angle means you're less likely to get hung up and damage something between the tires.