Rating of the best off-road vehicles in the world

Recently, vehicles have become more and more comfortable and soft, and even in the SUV class, fuel economy and driver and passenger comfort are higher than off-road performance. For most buyers, this is a positive sign. But still, there are still many supporters of real off-road monsters, who feel great in the mud and in other harsh conditions. If you are looking for a car of exactly this class, our rating of SUVs by cross-country ability will definitely help you make the right choice. Let's consider which SUV is the most passable and present the top of the latest models.

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled one of its most passable SUVs, the all-new G-Class known as the G550 and the AMG G63 (the latter model is significantly more powerful). While the new G550 retains its boxy profile and looks pretty much the same as before, Mercedes says only three elements are carried over: the door handles, spare wheel cover, and headlight washers.

Features of an SUV

More importantly, this versatile Mercedes SUV is still manufactured in Graz, Austria, and has a stronger and completely new frame with independent front suspension replacing the front axle of the old G. Three locking differentials (center, rear, front) ensure that the new the model can easily cope with difficult terrain. Moreover, the new G550 has lost about 170 kg. thanks to revised materials and a lighter body. Most of the new body is made of steel, while the fenders, hood and doors are made of aluminum.

Even with its military feel and all-terrain capability, the Mercedes-Benz G550 looks like a luxury luxury SUV. On it you will feel calm in absolutely any conditions. If you prefer sleek aerodynamic designs, the G, which has enough wind noise associated with its flat windshield, isn't for you. Also, the car stands out for its high fuel consumption.

In practice, the company presented an almost completely redesigned car. The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is completely new - it concerns the body, the reinforced frame and the independent front suspension. The new G550 is powered by a two-speed 4.0-liter V8 with 416 horsepower. One 9-speed automatic gearbox is now also available.

Under the hood

Under the aluminum hood of the Mercedes-Benz G550 is a four-cylinder V8 with two turbines, which produces 416 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque. This is reflected in the acceleration of the SUV - from 0 to 100 km / h in 5.6 seconds. The engine is a little unusual in that its turbochargers are located on top, in a V-shaped aluminum block, rather than outside. There is one transmission available, a 9-speed automatic that occasionally misses gear ratios to improve efficiency during acceleration.

Toyota Sequoia

The Toyota Sequoia is a large, robust eight-passenger three-row SUV, one of the most passable in the world. Unlike sedan-based SUVs like the Highlander sibling, the Sequoia is an "old-school" sporty all-terrain SUV. By this we mean "body on a frame" designed for towing and off-roading, not for commuting and shopping.

Auto capabilities

Provides a standard, but high flow, V8 engine and a set of active branded driver assistance systems from Toyota. However, it cannot be denied that the Sequoia is in some ways inferior to its direct competitors, especially the more recent Ford Expedition and Chevrolet Tahoe. The Sequoia will certainly do a great job of transporting even a kid's soccer team, but the real purpose of the car is to be in the wild or to carry loads.

If you are looking for a powerful full-size SUV with good off-road performance, proven reliability and a high resale value, Sequoia delivers at a price much lower than, for example, the Toyota Land Cruiser. Standard Toyota Safety Sense features, introduced last year, also place the car at the top of the best off-road vehicle ratings.

If you really need a powerful V8 all-terrain vehicle to shop or drive your kids to school, the Sequoia can be a little awkward, especially in parking lots. Most buyers will be better off in a more comfortable, more fuel efficient and more affordable SUV like the Toyota Highlander. It's also worth noting that the SUV's direct competitors, the Chevy Tahoe and the Ford Expedition, are more recent.

Under the hood

The Toyota Sequoia has a 5.7-liter V8 engine. While not the most powerful in its class and certainly not the most efficient machine at 18 liters per 100 km in town, it is a proven workhorse. Its 381 horsepower and 401 Nm of torque are sufficient to accelerate the car to top speed and carry up to 3300 kg.

Again, this figure is not the best (Ford Expedition has a payload of up to 4200 kg.), But it should satisfy most needs. All Sequoia models use a 6-speed automatic transmission. By default, the car is equipped with a two-wheel drive (2WD), full - on request for an additional fee.

Lexus lx

Built on the sturdy frame of the legendary Toyota Land Cruiser, the Lexus LX 570 is the proverbial “iron fist in a velvet glove”. This large SUV from Lexus is efficient off-road while pampering you with all the comforts of a modern luxury sedan. Call it a Lexus Range Rover if you like, but with more reliability and resale value.

Lexus is offering the LX this year as a 2-row / 5-seat or 3-row / 8-seat vehicle, equipped with the latest infotainment and safety features. The LX 570, with its multiple AWD settings, locking center differential and low gear, can handle the toughest off-roading. Decide which of the SUV options is better for each individual.

If you are looking for a luxury 2 or 3 row SUV built to tackle rough terrain, the Lexus LX 570 is an excellent choice. This large SUV keeps up with popular models such as the Audi Q7, Mercedes-Benz GLS or Volvo XC90, although the three-row Cadillac Escalade ESV offers more interior space. Plus, if you're looking for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, Lexus doesn't offer either one here.

Lights built into the side-view mirrors now project the Lexus logo onto the ground. In addition, in addition to the multi-information display with a digital clock, the built-in Lexus Enform Remote includes a smartwatch and Amazon Alexa integration.

Under the hood

Like the 2018 model, the LX 570 is powered by a single engine - a 5.7-liter V8 with an aluminum block, producing 383 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 403 Nm of torque at 3600 rpm. with 4 cylinders, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. This combination provides the SUV with maximum cross-country ability.

All LX 570s boast all-wheel drive. With the center differential locked and low-frequency gear engaged, the SUV will simply continue to pull forward, no matter how bumpy or slippery the road surface is. Fuel consumption of 18 liters. for 100 km. in the city and 13 y. on the track is also a major drawback.

Chevrolet suburban

The 11th generation Chevrolet Suburban may be considered "old-timer", but it certainly isn't aging. The full-size SUV continues to be popular with large families, offering a huge cabin, a powerful V8 and so many features and options that are hard to remember right away. The new Ford Expedition Max is very similar to the Suburban, but it is 450kg larger. lifting capacity and level rear floor with folding seats.

Features of the

However, the Suburban's upscale interior and choice of affordable V8 engines are decisive for most ATV enthusiasts. Other than the extended versions of the Nissan Armada or Toyota Sequoia, Suburban's only competitors are its corporate twins, the GMC Yukon XL and the Cadillac Escalade ESV.

If you are looking for a full-size SUV with more power, more interior space and increased comfort, the stylish Chevrolet Suburban is your choice. The powerful V8, the new RST Performance Package and the maximum payload of 3,750 kg make the choice easy, as do the many high-tech options.

The main disadvantages are high fuel consumption and overpriced. If you just need a car for seven or eight passengers, and you are not worried about carrying capacity, look at the less expensive Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot or Subaru Ascent with all-wheel drive. If you are looking for maximum payload, the Ford Expedition Max is the best choice.

The Suburban has received a new RST (Rally Sport Truck) performance package that includes a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 hp. with., a 10-speed automatic transmission and a performance-calibrated version of GM Magnetic Ride Control. Options for the RST include a Borla exhaust and a Brembo brake kit.

Under the hood

The base Suburban drivetrain is a proven performance and reliability 5.3-liter 355-horsepower V8 engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission. It has enough power, 419 Nm of torque, direct fuel injection and active cylinder control. If it's not a fuel economy leader, it delivers efficiency that's at least reasonable given the Suburban's incredible off-road capabilities.

The smooth 6-speed automatic transmission does an excellent job of keeping the engine running smoothly, keeping maximum power in the desired range. 2-wheel drive is offered as standard, four-wheel drive (4WD) can be ordered as an option. The maximum payload with 2-wheel drive (2WD) is 3700 kg, therefore the volume is 5.3 liters. more than enough. Opt for the new RST Performance Package and you get a 6.2-liter V8, 10-speed automatic transmission and sports suspension.

Chevrolet tahoe

Powerful, roomy and versatile, the Chevrolet Tahoe remains one of the most powerful and highly recommended full-size SUVs in Russia. Unlike a sedan-based SUV, the Tahoe is built on a rigid truck frame. This reduces comfort levels and increases fuel consumption to some extent, but allows the Tahoe to carry up to 3900 kg, which is ideal for boats, trailers and other "toys" for outdoor activities and camping.

The Tahoe differs from crossovers and even the new Ford Expedition with a standard V8 engine, and the optional four-wheel drive is sure to appeal to all adventurers. At a price point, the Tahoe is nearly identical to competitors like the Expedition, Toyota Sequoia, Nissan Armada and their GMC Yukon twin.

Control

The Tahoe drives slightly better than you'd expect from a large SUV on a truck bed, and certainly better than its predecessors. The Magnetic Ride Control suspension, which is included in the Premier package, will help you to verify this. On the road, the Tahoe is refined and quiet.

A standard 5.3-liter V8 engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission is available. Also on offer is a more powerful 6.2-liter V8 GM, which is used in the Cadillac Escalade and is already available in the GMC Yukon. With this 420 horsepower engine, the Tahoe RST accelerates 0-100 km. per hour in less than six seconds.

If you are looking for a large and reliable 3-row SUV that is powerful and capable, yet packed with the latest technology and safety features, the Chevrolet Tahoe brings together the best of both worlds. It also offers a wider, more powerful 6.2-liter V8 and the less expensive 2-row / 5-passenger Tahoe Custom.

Although the Ford Expedition has two fewer cylinders, it is designed for more payload and also offers more cargo space. If you don't plan on hauling heavy loads or need a sturdy body, a crossover SUV like the Traverse is cheaper, more efficient and easier to drive. The full-size Chevrolet Tahoe SUV is released without any major changes or upgrades.

Under the hood

There are two V8 engines available for the Chevy Tahoe. Most are equipped with a 5.3-liter 355-horsepower V8 with high-tech fuel injection, which reduces consumption and increases power; for this, the GM Cylinder Management System is also installed, discreetly shutting off half of the cylinders to conserve fuel. The engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, and while it's relatively smooth, the manufacturer could offer the excellent 8-speed automatic transmission that was available in some Silverado pickup models.

Order the special edition RST and select the Performance Package and the Tahoe gets a 420-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 and a 10-speed automatic transmission from the Cadillac Escalade. Two-wheel (2WD) and 4-wheel (4WD) models are available for true off-road enthusiasts.

Ford Expedition

While the full-size Chevy Tahoe remains the undisputed top-selling in the segment, the Ford Expedition is in no way inferior, and in some respects even better. Let's dwell on this new product in more detail.

Expedition introduces cutting-edge technology and design with extensive use of aluminum, sophisticated independent rear suspension and a powerful turbocharged V6 engine that can leave most V8s behind. Compared to the Tahoe, the Expedition has a higher payload rating among the most passable SUVs, superior handling, a flat cargo floor and, as for a full-size SUV, has a fairly low fuel consumption. The model, available in standard and long Max versions with an extended wheelbase, has already become a serious competitor to all the leaders in the off-road SUV class.

Control

The 3.5-liter V6 with twin-turbo EcoBoost and 10-speed automatic leaves any doubts about the need for a V8 aside. Expedition is brisk on the road, combining speed with responsive steering and firm brakes.

If you want a full-size SUV but are frustrated by the lack of style, features and advanced electronics offered in the latest models from other manufacturers, be sure to check out the Ford Expedition. The SUV has a stylish interior, modern mechanics and advanced driver assistance features.

If you do not need high payload and do not plan to carry more than six passengers and a lot of luggage, then it is better to look at such more compact off-road SUVs such as the Chevrolet Traverse or Ford Flex. Those looking for lower fuel consumption might want to try the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.

In addition, the Stealth Edition package is offered, which features unique stylistic features and new special limited editions. The rest of the Ford Expedition is released without significant changes.

The only thing that hasn't changed with the serial upgrade is the independent rear suspension. Unlike the one-piece beam on the Tahoe, Sequoia and Suburban, the Expedition's rear axles move independently, improving ride and handling, and creating flat space for the third-row folding seats.

Interior and exterior

Expedition's control scheme is familiar to anyone who has driven a Ford, but with a twist. For example, volume controls, drive mode selectors and temperature controls have a knurled surface that looks and feels great. The gear selector for the 10-speed automatic is an easy-to-use knob with a similar knob with manual buttons at the bottom.

Passengers in the second row get an equally delightful experience with comfortable seats that are fully adjustable. Row 3 passengers also get a lot of room, especially in the Max versions with a longer wheelbase.There is plenty of cargo space, and if you need more, the third row of seats can be folded down electrically with a slightly convoluted interface.

Obviously, the Ford Expedition is more closely tied to the SUV lineup than the F-150 pickup it is based on. The headlights, taillights, overall profile and trim look like enlarged versions of what you'll find in a Ford Explorer or Flex. It's not too bad, though, as the Expedition is a pretty daring and sophisticated jeep.

Under the hood

The only engine available to Ford Expedition buyers is the 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6, which has performed well in other Ford models. Here it produces 375 horsepower and 637 Nm of torque, or in more expensive trim levels 400 horsepower and 650 Nm of torque.

Thanks to the 10-speed automatic, the Expedition makes perfect use of all its characteristics, despite its enormous weight. In addition to the basic 2-wheel drive (4x2), the more expensive version offers 4-wheel (4x4) with a terrain selection system to maximize traction on a variety of surfaces. Fuel economy is pretty good considering the size of the vehicle - up to 9.8 liters on average. on the highway.

We reviewed and compared the best 4WD cars. Which is the most passable SUV in the world? It is difficult to answer, since each model has incomparable advantages that make it stand out from its competitors. However, from the listed models, you can choose from both a classic monster and a modern premium car. If you have experience using the listed machines, write your feedback in the comments.