Compare Off-road Capabilities of SUV, Crossovers & Trucks Side by Side

Not sure which vehicle is better off road, among the options available on the market? Our interactive comparison tool lets you compare ground clearance, approach angles, departure angles, drivetrain specs, and off-road capability scores for over 180 SUVs, crossovers, trucks, and vans, to help you find the best platform for a do-it-all family adventure vehicle or a dedicated off-road build.

Having featured more than 300 off-road builds of all calibers from traditional trucks and SUVs like Wranglers, Broncos, and Tacomas to less conventional crossovers, vans, and even wagons, our editorial team has made extensive research to gether the key specs of these vehicles and evaluate their true off-road capabilities.

Over the years, this knowledge base evolved into a comprehensive vehicle database tracking the key parameters that matter most for off-roading: ground clearance, approach and departure angles, drivetrains, lockers, transfercase and traction enhancement electronics. We realized this data could serve the wider off-road community in the form of an interactive comparison tool.

It’s intuitive – just click “Choose Vehicle 1,” pick the make and model from the dropdown, and hit “Select” button. All off-road specifications will populate instantly. Repeat for Vehicle 2 to compare them side-by-side.

The comparison displays key parameters that influence off-road capability and shows how each vehicle stacks up against the best 4x4s on today’s market. The build section below links to in-depth information about every selected vehicle with articles and build features.

Quantifying parameters that aren’t always measurable in numbers and exist in different dimensions of vehicle performance always presents certain challenges, although we managed to bring it all together. Since all these parameters indirectly influence a vehicle’s off-road capability, we implemented a relative scoring system of 100 points that allows you to see the big picture with reasonable accuracy.

Ground Clearance Score

Ground clearance is measured from the lowest point of the vehicle (typically the differential or frame rails) to the ground. Higher clearance means you can navigate larger obstacles, deeper ruts, and steeper approach angles without scraping vulnerable components. We benchmark against the production 4x4s with highest ground clearance.

Wheel & Tire Size Score

Larger factory wheels and tires provide better obstacle clearance and allow you to tackle bigger rocks without getting hung up. We measure the overall diameter of the factory wheel and tire combination, benchmarking against the largest production wheel sizes available (up to 37 inches).

Off-Road Technology Score

This evaluates the factory-equipped mechanical and electronic systems that enhance traction and control on a rough terrain:

• Locking differentials (front and rear) receive the highest weighting, as they’re the most effective technology for maintaining traction when wheels lift off the ground or encounter slippery surfaces
• Electorinic traction enhancement systems that can immitate the work of conventional lockers and distribute momentum smartly, yet not always capable in truly difficult conditions
• Low-range transfer case ensures maximum momentum for crawling at slow speeds, which is vital
• Four-wheel drive system as the baseline requirement to get going on low traction surface

These three category scores are weighted and combined into a Total Off-Road Capability Score out of 100 points. This allows direct comparisons, a vehicle scoring 85 has measurably better factory off-road capability than one scoring 65, whether that advantage comes from larger tires, more ground clearance, or superior traction systems.

Body-on-frame construction receives additional consideration in the overall score due to superior structural strength and durability for serious off-road use compared to unibody designs.

• SUV (77)
• Crossovers (55)
• Trucks (37)
• Other (9)

By Make:

• Ford (28)
• Toyota (23)
• Nissan (15)
• Subaru (14)
• Honda (11)
• Chevrolet (9)
• Lexus (9)

• Jeep (8)
• Land Rover (8)
• Mitsubishi (8)
• Mercedes-Benz (7)
• Volvo (5)
• RAM (4)
• Porsche (4)

• Audi (3)
• Dodge (3)
• Volkswagen (3)
• Acura (2)
• BMW (2)
• Hummer (2)
• Mazda (2)

• Suzuki (2)
• Cadillac (1)
• GMC (1)
• Hyundai (1)
• Infiniti (1)
• Lada (1)
• UAZ (1)

Once you’ve compared specs and found your ideal off-road vehicle, check out our extensive library of off-road builds and overland builds for inspiration, parts lists, and modification guides.

From lifted Jeeps to adventure-ready trucks, we’ve documented hundreds of real-world builds to help you transform your vehicle into the ultimate off-road machine.

Disclaimer

Off-road capability scores and specifications are for informational purposes only. Data may contain discrepancies, and some factors influencing off-road performance have been simplified for ease of representation. Specifications may vary by vehicle equipment, trim level, model year, region, etc. and are subject to manufacturer changes.

Our scoring system provides general guidance and should not be the sole factor in purchasing decisions. Actual off-road performance depends on many factors, like equipment, driver skill, terrain, vehicle condition, and numerous other variables not fully captured by this tool. We are not responsible for decisions made based on this information or for any damages, injuries, or losses resulting from vehicle purchase, use or modification.