The Off-Road, Adventure-Ready SUVs For Families

Going off-the-beaten-path is becoming increasingly popular, and families are getting on board. And guess what? The automakers have taken note, transforming their typically mundane family haulers into bonafide adventure-ready machines. We’re not talking cheesy ‘off-road packages’ with some styling tweaks and black wheels here. Instead, features like raised ground clearance, rugged cladding, steel skid plates, improved torque, all-terrain tires, and more have entered the family SUV world — from small crossovers to larger models. Here are some of the best currently on the market.

Hyundai Santa Fe XRT

Mid-Size SUV

We won’t blame you if you’ve mistaken the redesigned (and unrecognizable) Santa Fe for something completely new from the Korean. Early 2023, Hyundai introduced the off-road-ready XRT Concept variant alongside the next-generation 2024 Santa Fe. Now, the XRT is a full-fledged production model adventure-going families can count on.

The Hyundai Santa Fe XRT sports a rugged, off-road-ready presence with dark chrome and black trim elements, strategic cladding, and black roof rails with cross bars for practicality, which is ideal for rooftop tents. Its 30-inch all-terrain tires (245/60R18) underscore its off-road capabilities, complemented by a broader liftgate and a remarkable 1.4 inches of extra ground clearance. While offering the standard 1.6L turbocharged hybrid, we’d opt for the more robust 2.5L turbocharged engine with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, delivering an estimated 277 horsepower and 311 lb.-ft. of torque for a powerful off-road experience.

Recommended Read:

• First Drive: 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT Review
• The 2024 Santa Fe XRT: Hyundai’s Adventure-Ready SUV Up Close

Chevrolet Traverse Z71

Full-Size SUV, 3-Row

Chevy’s mid-size Traverse, a 7-passenger SUV, underwent a much-needed redesign after a 2022 refresh that didn’t make significant changes. The updated version features a striking design, introduces interior enhancements like a 17.7-inch screen, and swaps the old 3.6L V6 for a more potent 2.5L engine. Notably, the new Traverse Z71 trim steals the spotlight as an off-roader with seven seats, offering over 1-inch increased ground clearance, improved stability with a widened track, and exclusive 18-inch all-terrain wheels.

Built for adventure, the Z71 model boasts enhanced off-road capabilities, a distinctive front fascia, red tow hooks, and a rugged aluminum skid plate for rock-bashing prowess. Equipped with a standard trailering package, hill descent control, and versatile drive modes, the Z71-flavored Traverse is ready to tackle diverse terrains and haul weekend toys to the cabin.

• Recommended Read: New 2024 Chevy Traverse Sheds Bland Looks, Adds Rugged Z71 Trim

Volvo EX30 Cross Country

Electric Subcompact Crossover SUV

The new Volvo EX30, an all-electric compact SUV, boasts the smallest CO2 footprint in Volvo’s lineup. While the standard 2024 EX30 may not be off-road ready, the resilient EX30 Cross Country variant steps up for smaller families and adventurous weekend warriors.

The XC version is tailored for off-road exploration, featuring increased ground clearance, 19-inch black wheels (with an option for 18-inch wheels and custom tires), and essential skid plates for rough terrain. Anticipated to sport the robust Twin Motor Performance variant with 422 horsepower, achieving a swift 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds, this Scandinavian EV promises an exhilarating off-the-grid adventure with rapid charging capabilities to keep the journey going.

• Recommended Read: 2024 Volvo EX30 Gets Adventure-Ready with Cross Country (XC) Variant

Lexus GX 550 Overtrail

Larger Mid-Size SUV, 2-Row

The 2024 Lexus GX lineup undergoes a comprehensive redesign, introducing the GX 550 Overtrail and Overtrail+ models. Elevating the luxury off-roading experience, these models feature smaller yet sturdier 18-inch wheels, standard 33-inch All-Terrain tires, and distinctive bi-tone exterior paint options in natural tones.

Exclusive to the Overtrail trims is an electronic locking rear differential for enhanced traction and control. These models also showcase black-accented overfenders for style and function, along with a standard aluminum skid plate to safeguard the GX’s fuel tank, differentials, and transfer box during rugged terrain exploration.

Recommended Read:

• 2024 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail First Drive Review
• Lexus GX 550 Overtrail: Luxury Off-Roader Goes Beast Mode
• All 6 Lexus GX 2024 Trims You Need to Know About

Subaru Outback Wilderness

Mid-Size SUV, 2-Row

The redesigned 2020 sixth-generation Outback SUV already showcased impressive off-road capabilities thanks to advanced all-wheel drive and a utility-focused design. However, Subaru took it up a notch for 2022 with the Outback Wilderness edition. Transforming the suburban family hauler into an off-the-grid warrior while maintaining everyday drivability, the ramped Outback boasts around 17 notable upgrades, including higher ground clearance, beefier tires, new bumpers, and a more rugged blacked-out aesthetic for conquering unpaved terrain.

The powertrain remains unchanged. It features the current range-topping 2.4L turbocharged engine and 8-speed CVT transmission, which produce 260 hp at 5,600 rpm, 277 lb-ft of torque at 2,000 rpm, and a 3,500-lb. towing capacity.

Recommended Read:

• First Drive: 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness Review
• Subaru builds the ultimate off-road adventure SUV with the 2022 Outback Wilderness

Subaru Forester Wilderness

Compact SUV

Built on the Forester Premium with the 2.5L direct-injection engine making 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque, the Forester Wilderness sets itself apart in almost every other way. First, it receives a welcomed half-inch ground clearance increase measuring 9.2-inches. This lifted stance is significant considering the Forester was already sitting higher than most competitors.

Subaru also added longer coil springs and shock absorbers coupled with special tuning, a specially revised drivetrain, and X-MODE equipped as standard. Inside, it finds the Forester Premium’s cabin features like the All-Weather Package as standard with heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and windshield wiper de-icer. 

• Recommended Read: Subaru Just Built the Most Capable Compact SUV with the 2022 Forester Wilderness

Ford Explorer Timberline

Mid-Size SUV, 2-Row (Optional 3rd-Row)

This Explorer breaks the mold with steel skid plates, increased ground clearance, and enhanced towing capabilities, earning its title as the most off-road-capable Explorer to date. Equipped with Ford intelligent four-wheel drive and a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, it automatically optimizes torque distribution for optimal traction.

Under the hood, the mid-size SUV is powered by Ford’s 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine, delivering 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque and a 10-speed automatic transmission. Including a Class III Trailer Tow Package further expands its versatility, allowing drivers to tow adventure-ready toys like RVs, ATVs, and watercraft.

• Recommended Read: Ford Explorer channels rugged roots with burly 2021 Timberline model

Ford Expedition Timberline

Full-Size SUV, 3-Row

Coming as no surprise, Ford’s big hauler also gets the off-road Expedition Timberline treatment introduced in 2022. The most off-road capable Expedition in the lineup distinguishes itself from others through a distinct grille and Active Orange exterior accents. Ford has improved its trail capability with the best-in-class standard ground clearance, wider track, and enhanced approach and departure angles. 

Further enhancements include Trail Turn Assist – we find on Bronco – allowing you to make tight turns, rugged 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler all-terrain tires, improved ride height, a two-speed transfer case, and an F-150 Raptor heavy-duty underbody skid plate. The power comes from the Ford’s 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, pumping out 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. 

• Recommended Read: Ford Expedition Goes Stealth Mode & Gets Lifted ‘Timberline’ Treatment for 2022

VW Atlas Peak Edition

Mid-Size SUV

In 2019, the German debuted the Atlas Basecamp Concept and the burly HIVE EX compact expedition trailer at the New York Auto Show. Like most concepts, this adventure-ready 7-seater wasn’t arriving at dealers anytime soon. But VW followed through with the rugged 2024 Atlas Peak Edition to make up for this. It distinguishes itself with a rugged front fascia and silver underbody cladding, featuring a gloss-black “X” element borrowed from the Atlas Cross Sport. The blacked-out grille is accentuated by two chrome strips flanking the illuminated logo.

On the side, a sizeable gloss-black badge with the Peak Edition logo in orange and chrome complements black and silver rugged side sills, mirror caps, window surround, and roof rails for a sleek profile. Standard black roof rails and an available large panoramic sunroof enhance the exterior. Peak Edition models roll on 18-inch black alloy wheels with 255/60 all-terrain tires, adding to the Atlas’s off-road versatility.

Recommended Read:

• VW Adds Rugged 2024 Atlas Peak Edition for the Adventurers
• VW’s compact Taos goes off-road with new Basecamp Concept

Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek

Mid-Size SUV

The Nissan Pathfinder marked its 35th year in 2022, arriving with a robust redesign and a more responsive 9-speed transmission paired with 4WD, enhancing its towing capabilities and accommodating eight passengers. Nissan aims to revive the Pathfinder’s adventure-oriented roots by boasting a more significant presence with bigger tires, a wider stance, and a dominant front end.

Taking it further, the introduction of the 2023 Pathfinder Rock Creek grade transforms the SUV into an off-road powerhouse, featuring a lifted and tuned suspension, 18-inch beadlock-style wheels with all-terrain rubber, a sturdy roof rack with a 220-pound load capacity, and standard Nissan Intelligent Around View Monitor with Off-Road Mode. All models, equipped with 4WD and seven drive modes, including Tow, ensure versatility and capability, with Trailer Sway Control standard for the available 6,000-pound towing capacity.

• Recommended Read: New Pathfinder’s redesign draws on its rugged, adventure-going roots

Honda Passport TrailSport

Mid-Size SUV

Honda claims the redesigned Passport is “equally at home on dirt and mud-strewn trails as it is on the highway or twisting mountain roads.” With the all-new TrailSport in the mix for the first time — a feature borrowed from Honda’s light trucks — perhaps there’s a case for a more versatile and durable Passport.

The Passport TrailSport gains ground clearance up to 8.1 inches to conquer the unpaved roads and departs from the lineup with a more distinct front grill, bolder front and rear bumpers with skid garnish designs painted silver, all riding on 18-inch wheels with Pewter painted highlights. Powering the new Honda SUV is a respectable 280-hp, 3.5L V6 engine paired with a 9-speed transmission. Advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies, part of the Honda Sensing system, are also included as standard.

• Recommended Read: Honda’s Refreshed 2022 Passport Joins the ‘Rugged SUV’ Trend, Adds New TrailSport

GMC Yukon AT4

Full-Size SUV

As far as American premium full-size SUVs go, the Yukon Denali has definitely been leading the way since the upscale hauler hit the scene back in 1999. In 2021, GMC was taking things off-road with the rugged new Yukon AT4, following in the footsteps of the Sierra AT4 pickup, Sierra HD AT4, and Acadia AT4. All Yukons ride on a four-corner Air Ride Adaptive Suspension that will raise the body to 2 inches (50 mm) for additional ground clearance when traveling off-road; GMC claims this new suspension makes for a comfier ride.

Unlike the glossy Denali, the Yukon AT4 replaces all the shiny stuff with dark elements and chunks of black. And, of course, the prominent pair of red recovery hooks, similar to the Sierra AT4, make this Yukon stand out. At this maximum height, the Yukon AT4 offers a nearly 32-degree approach angle for added off-road capability.

Recommended Read:

• 2022 GMC Sierra Interior: Inside the Denali Ultimate & Sierra AT4X
• 2021 Yukon Denali and New AT4 look worlds apart and we love it

Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road

Compact Crossover SUV

The RAV4 has never been an ‘off-road machine’ since hitting the market in 1994. But the new model is heading in that direction to some degree. The muscular, aggressively-styled RAV4 is unlike anything we would’ve expected when the covers came off at its 2018 New Auto Show debut – and that’s definitely a good thing for this fifth-generation model.

The new chiseled RAV4 with available 19-inch wheels sports a more robust nose, leading to a more dynamic profile with bolder shoulders. Looks aside, we expect it to handle off-road duties; the RAV4 sits on a new TNGA platform, allowing for a lower, broader package, while the shorter front and rear overhangs will aid in RAV4’s ability to conquer the back trails with ease.

Mazda CX-50 Meridian Edition

Compact Crossover SUV

Debuting as a North America-exclusive compact crossover for 2023, the first-ever CX-50 stands out with the CX-50 Meridian Edition, designed for off-road enthusiasts. This package enhances the CX-50 with exclusive 18-inch wheels, robust Falken all-terrain tires, and distinctive features like a matte black hood graphic, black wheel locks and lugs, and a Polymetal Gray or Zircon Sand exterior.

While 2023 models will no longer include the headlamp garnish, the Meridian Edition includes side rocker panels and an all-new headlight garnish for tackling rough terrains. Standardized with all-wheel drive, the CX-50 offers a choice between a 256-hp 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a 227-hp version with a six-speed automatic transmission featuring manual shift mode.

Related – 2023 Mazda CX-50 Meridian Review

Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness

Subcompact Crossover

Thanks to its compact size, the Crosstrek already possesses rough-and-tumble looks out of the gate. The Wilderness trim takes it to another level with distinctive aesthetics, featuring brand new front and rear bumpers, a bold hexagonal grille, bigger wheel arch cladding, a metal skid plate at the front, unique hex-shaped LED fog lights, and a matte-black anti-glare decal on the hood.

For true adventurers looking to camp on the roof, there’s also a handy ladder-type roof rack system with a 176-lb. dynamic load capacity and a 700-lb. static load limit to accommodate larger roof-top tents without issues.

Recommended Read:

• 2024 Crosstrek Wilderness First Drive Review: Subaru’s Off-Road Maverick
• 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Specs & Features Up Close

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There is a long list of family-friendly off-road SUVs, from subcompact to full-size. Based on this trend, we will see even more traditional haulers get the adventure treatment. And we’re all for it. For more inspiration, check out some more adventure vehicles here.