Off-Road Vehicles: A Buyer’s Guide

Off road vehicles are cars that are capable of traveling on and off a paved or gravel road. They are great vehicles for motorists who enjoy adventure, road trips and going off the beaten path.

There are several types of off-road vehicles on the market. Some are designed for specific types of terrains while others are more versatile. In addition, some are more family friendly than others. The most common off road cars include all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), dirt bikes, military vehicles, snowmobiles and monster trucks.

An offroad car has a few key characteristics that set it apart from standard vehicles. The main difference is that standard vehicles, like sedans and coupes, have all-wheel drive systems whereas an off-road utility vehicle has a 4-wheel drive (4WD). This gives drivers manual control over driving modes, which is key for driving on various terrains.

It also provides more traction on the road and less fuel consumption, in some cases. Before you start shopping for the best adventure SUV, review the sections below for tips on buying an off-road vehicle, key features to look for and pricing info.

Key Features in Off Road Vehicles

Before you start looking for the best affordable 4 wheel drive cars, you should be familiar with the key features in today’s best off road vehicles for sale. One of the most important features you should be looking for if you plan to take your car off the beaten path is ground clearance.

Ground Clearance

When driving off the road, you may encounter rocks, erosion ruts and a series of other obstacles that can severely damage your vehicle. Having enough ground clearance will allow you to navigate tough terrain without worrying about damage or losing traction. The best four wheel drive car will also offer adjustable suspension. This feature allows you to raise or lower your car’s suspension based on the terrain.

Low-Range Gearing

Low-range gearing is another important feature to look for in a good off road SUV or truck. On-road vehicles typically operate in high range, which provides speed and less power. However, with off-road vehicles, the opposite is required.

These vehicles require a balance between speed and power to avoid damage. Low-range gearing supplies the power needed to travel through various terrain, such as a steep hill or rock crawl, at a slower speed.

Crawl Control

If you are looking for a great off-roader, look for one with crawl control. When driving through rough terrain, this feature will automatically determine the right amount of power necessary.  The best 4 wheel drive SUV will also have hill-descent control, which sets the appropriate speed when going down steep hills. This feature was once limited to a luxury 4×4 SUV but is now standard in most off-road SUVs.

Locking Differential

Whether you are getting a 4 wheel drive compact SUV or small off road SUV, having a locking differential feature is a must. Traction is a common issue when off-road driving. One solution to this problem is having a locking differential.

A locking differential, commonly known as “lockers,” allow the wheels to spin at different rates. This makes it easier to get the proper traction if you are stuck in an area. A good 4 wheel drive SUV should have two types of lockers: one for all four wheels and another for just the rear wheels.

Off Road Vehicle Prices

When shopping for an off-road vehicle, it is important to consider the cost. As with any car, the price you will pay for your off-road vehicle will depend on what you are looking for. The best 4 wheel drive compact SUV or best off road mid size SUV can vary from one person to the next. This will depend on several factors, including the type of terrain you plan to travel on, the vehicle size you want, your budget and your lifestyle.

The best off road vehicle for you is not necessarily the most expensive or the one with the most features. For example, the best luxury off road SUV can cost up to $125,000. However, it may not be as versatile as midsize offroad vehicles, which may have more features. On the other hand, you may be able to find a used off-roader that will fit your needs for just under $18,000.

The price range for small 4wd cars is typically around $40,000 to $60,000. Before you decide which vehicle you want, do a financial assessment and set a realistic budget. From there, choose some must-have features. Completing these steps will help you narrow down your options and find the best 4WD for you. A 4 wheel drive midsize SUV is a great starting point for new off-roaders, as it offers numerous features with comfort and affordable pricing.

How to Find Off Road Vehicles for Sale or Lease

The first step in finding a 4×4 four wheel drive vehicle is conducting preliminary research online. Use your budget and list of must-have features as a guide to help you narrow down your options. Once you have a few car makes and models in mind, you can plan a trip to your local dealerships.

If you are not in a hurry to make a purchase, consider attending an auto show. It will allow you to look at several new models and makes all at once. You will be able to speak with product specialists and may even get a chance to test-drive the car. You can find out everything you need to know without the pressure to purchase right away.

An important part of buying or leasing a car is negotiating the price. Keep in mind that there are several factors that influence how much you will pay for an off road SUV, truck or bike. This includes the car’s sale price and your credit score (if you are financing). However, there is always room for negotiation as the dealership typically upcharges to increase its profit margin. Whether you want a luxury 4×4 SUV or an affordable and small off road SUV, you should always negotiate the pricing.

Financing the vehicle is also an option if you are unable to pay the full cost of the car. In this case, you must a portion of the total cost upfront and pay the rest in monthly installments, which are a combination of the principal and added interest fees.