Jun 9, 2016

9488011351_4de15f574d_nThere are only three guarantees in life: death, taxes, and Jeeps being remarkable off-road machines. With that said, one of the hardest decisions you’ll ever have to make is which Jeep to choose for your next off-roading adventure. However, with several models up to the billing, you won’t have to fret that you chose the wrong one. Here are just a few of the best Jeeps for handling the toughest terrain.

1. Wrangler Rubicon Hard Rock Edition

If you want to get your hands on the Wrangler Rubicon Hard Rock Edition (pictured above), you’ll have to hustle. Created as one of six limited edition Wranglers for Jeep’s 75th anniversary, the Hard Rock will probably only be available for one year. However, if you do manage to land one of these beasts, there’s no terrain you can’t handle. From a technical standpoint, the Rubicon Hard Rock uses Jeep’s patented Rock-Trac 4X4 technology, which allows for optimum torque to each wheel. This enables you to climb even steeper ground and boulders with little effort. It also comes in eight colors and sports a mind-blowing nine-speaker Alpine premium audio system.

2. Renegade Trailhawk

With a name like the Trailhawk, you know this Jeep means serious business. It’s the only trim level of the Renegade to offer standard four-wheel drive, making it the quintessential choice for off-roading. It’s also surprisingly quick and nimble despite its 180-horsepower, 2.4-liter, four-cylinder, so don’t let that detract from its total package. The Trailhawk also boasts Selec-Terrain Traction Control, which allows you to switch handling according to the terrain. That means that snow, sand, mud, or rock is not really an obstacle for the Trailhawk. Plus, it comes with a roomy interior for up to four of your best friends.

3. Grand Cherokee Overland

The Grand Cherokee has always been a favorite among off-roaders, not only for its ruggedness, but also because its fun to drive on the road. However, the Overland needs no roads. Using Jeep’s Quadra-Lift Air Suspension, the Overland glides over terrain. The key to this handling is that air springs replace conventional coil springs, creating a smoother ride. With this system you’ll have five driver-selectable modes including Park Mode, Aero Mode, Normal Ride, Off-Road I, and Off-Road II. This makes it comfortable and fun-to-drive whether you’re on sand dunes or driving to work.

4. Compass High Altitude

For under $20,000, you can still get a quality off-roader from Jeep, even if it doesn’t hold the legendary status of the Grand Cherokee or the Wrangler. The High Altitude model packs in excellent interior features like leather-trimmed seats and a sunroof, but still gives you the gear to climb to the top of a mountain. With Freedom Drive I and Freedom Drive II, the Compass employs brake traction control and electronically-controlled coupling to help you grip the road. With these firmly in place, you won’t have to worry about slippage as you careen up a rock wall.

Off-roading is all the more fun if you have the proper vehicle to do it. With these Jeep models, you’ll never have to worry about poor performance.

“2012 Jeep Wrangler Sport off road” by zombieite is licensed under CC BY 2.0