The original purpose of getting a sport utility vehicle was going off the beaten path, and it remains a prime focus of this now-massive market segment. According to a 2022 survey by Strategic Vision, 98% of SUV and crossover owners take their vehicles off-road at least once a year. At the same time, not everyone needs the highest-level Jeep Wrangler or a tricked-out Land Cruiser to get their off-road kicks. For many people, an SUV that can handle maintained trails, gravel roads, and the occasional large puddle or sand mound will do just fine.
Luckily, there are plenty of SUVs and crossovers that are great for light off-roading and won’t break the bank, especially if you get a used model in good condition. With that in mind, here’s a list of six light off-roading SUVs to have on the radar when visiting your local used car dealer. Along with solid off-roading performance, many offer good on-road performance, towing capabilities, and a comfortable design that makes them ideal all-around vehicles.
Ford Bronco Sport
The Ford Bronco is one of the most famous hardcore off-road SUVs around. In 2021, the same year the Bronco made its triumphant return after 25 years, Ford introduced the Bronco Sport as a new sibling. This compact crossover is great for anyone who wants a taste of the off-road life without the full meal. Most trim levels come with a 1.5L EcoBoost turbo I-3 engine and standard AWD to hit the nearest trails. You also get 65.2 cu.ft. of cargo space, a 2,200-lb towing capacity, and a full Ford Co-Pilot360 driver assistance suite.
Look for the Badlands trim if you want to step up your off-roading game. This trim level has a 2.0L turbo I-4 engine making 250 hp, and you also get torque-vectoring AWD to handle some intermediate obstacles and inclines. (Note the cargo capacity drops slightly to 60.6 cu.ft.) Like the full-size Bronco, Ford offers plenty of OEM accessories like floor liners, hood protectors, under-body lighting, and mini fridges to customize the off-roading experience.
Subaru Crosstrek
Since its debut in 2012, the Crosstrek has established itself as Subaru’s leading entry in the casual off-roading segment. Although almost any Crosstrek will be a solid choice for light rocks and moderate trails, I recommend looking at the 2021 model years onward. That year saw a more powerful 182 hp 2.5L Boxer-4 engine option on select trim levels. The following year brought a full-fledged third generation with an updated suspension. Either way, you get Subaru’s famed Symmetrical AWD for excellent stability and response.
Among its highlights, the Crosstrek has excellent ground clearance with 9.3 inches on the Crosstrek Wilderness and 8.7 inches on all other trim levels. The breakover and departure angles are excellent, too, letting you clear unexpected branches and boulders. It also has good cargo space, a Wi-Fi hotspot on most models, and high safety scores. The Crosstrek has been described as a more rugged and lifted Impreza, which should tell you plenty about the excitement it offers.
Jeep Cherokee
The Jeep Cherokee has quite a history. It’s been a full-size SUV, a compact SUV, and a compact crossover. It will return in 2026 as a hybrid midsize crossover. Of all the Cherokee editions, the fifth generation from 2014 to 2023 is the best for light or moderate off-roading excursions. It comes with several engine options, including two that surpass 270 hp, and a trio of AWD systems to grab traction. The Cherokee also has a towing capacity of up to 4,500 lbs, so you can bring boats, ATVs, and more on your travels.
Best of all, different trim levels are tailored to different off-roading styles. There’s the Cherokee Altitude and Latitude for general adventuring, the Trailhawk for more difficult rocks and mud holes, and the Overland for versatile forest overlanding. Certain models are available with features like locking rear differentials, built-in navigation, and premium audio to enhance your drive.
Toyota RAV4
As the first successful compact crossover, the Toyota RAV4 is the automaker’s best seller, and the fifth generation unveiled in 2019 continues the tradition of all-around performance. For those who want an eco-conscious SUV, the RAV4 has been available for years in mild hybrid and PHEV versions alongside the gas-only models. The hybrids deliver up to an EPA-estimated 39 combined MPG and more power, as evidenced by the 302 hp in the Toyota RAV4 PHEV, formerly known as the RAV4 Prime. Depending on the model, you can get an eight-speed automatic transmission or a CVT.
The RAV4 has many standard and available features geared toward soft off-roading. These include torque vectoring AWD, nearly 70 cu.ft. of cargo space, hill start assistance, Multi-Terrain Select drive modes, built-in navigation, and up to 8.6 inches of ground clearance. Trim levels like the TRD Off-Road, Adventure, and Woodland Edition stack even more capabilities like trail-focused suspension components. Add the luxurious cabin and impressive tech for a compact SUV to remember.
Nissan Pathfinder
Do you want a light off-roader that lets you bring all your family and friends along? With seating for up to eight people, a used Nissan Pathfinder is a great way to go. Originally a body-on-frame SUV for intense off-roading, the Pathfinder became a midsize crossover in 2012. The redesigned fifth generation that came out in 2022 doubled down on the “off-roading meets family vehicle” motif. This included a new AWD system, a limited-slip differential, and a nine-speed transmission for grip in any conditions.
Above all, Nissan Pathfinder SUVs are known for their power. The standard 3.5L V6 engine makes up to 295 hp and gives the Nissan Pathfinder a 6,000-lb towing capacity that is among the best in its class, so grab the camping equipment, UTV, and dirt bikes. If you don’t have a full crew, removing seats will max out the cargo space at over 80 cu.ft. There’s also plenty of available high-level tech goodies like wireless charging and a head-up display.
Chevrolet Blazer
With one of the largest SUV lineups around, you would figure that at least one Chevy SUV is a good light off-roader. For me, the Chevy Blazer gets the nod. Although positioned as a sporty Camaro-like SUV, this midsize crossover introduced in 2019 is more than adept on trails and unmaintained terrain, giving a contemporary update to the legendary K5 Blazer. It’s available with I-4 or V6 engines, depending on how much power you want. The V6 engines top 300 hp and give you 4,500 lbs of towing capacity.
Beyond this, AWD is standard or available on most trim levels. The Blazer RS uses twin-clutch rear wheel torque delivery for enhanced grip and has a slightly higher rear axle gear ratio to improve acceleration. Chevy’s Ride and Handling suspension is tuned for smoothness and accuracy at every turn, and the Blazer has electronic stability control, trailer sway control, and lots of passenger space. Finally, the Blazer Premier and RS include a 360-degree camera system to see potential hazards around you.
Light Off-Roading That’s Light on Your Wallet
Beginners and casual off-roading enthusiasts don’t need to buy the latest and greatest SUV filled with features they’ll never use. These SUVs offer the capabilities you need to get started with off-roading or spend a free Saturday exploring beaches, parks, and light-to-moderate trails. By purchasing a used SUV, you’ll save thousands of dollars, and each of these brands has a well-earned reputation for reliability, so that you can log plenty more off-road miles.
