Inside the Off-Road SUV Contest
With SUVs dominating global car sales, many brands advertise their vehicles as “off-road capable.” To test how true those claims are, a comprehensive off-road SUV contest was conducted, comparing 16 popular SUVs using practical, mechanical-based challenges.
Instead of focusing on horsepower, luxury, or infotainment systems, this contest tested what actually matters off-road: traction, suspension articulation, and drivetrain effectiveness.
How the SUVs Were Tested
Each contender went through three core off-road challenges designed to simulate real driving conditions beyond paved roads.
Suspension Flex Test
This test measured how well each SUV’s suspension kept all four wheels in contact with the ground when driving over uneven terrain.
- Strong flex improves stability and traction
- Poor flex causes wheel lift and loss of control
Front-Wheel Roller Test
Rollers simulate slippery surfaces like mud or rocks.
- Vehicles must redirect power when front wheels lose traction
- Advanced AWD systems score higher
Rear-Wheel Roller Test
This test highlights rear-axle engagement.
- Effective torque transfer and rear traction are critical off-road
- FWD-biased systems struggle here
Each category contributed to a total off-road capability score.
Final Rankings: Best SUVs for Off-Road Performance
🥇 Hyundai Tucson — 24 Points
The Hyundai Tucson emerged as the surprise winner, showing excellent suspension articulation and strong traction in both front and rear roller tests. Its AWD tuning proved highly effective in low-grip conditions.
🥈 Kia Sportage — 20 Points
Closely related mechanically to the Tucson, the Sportage delivered consistent results across all tests, making it one of the most capable crossovers for light-to-moderate off-road use.
🥉 Joint Third Place — 19 Points
- GWM Haval H6 GT
- Mazda CX-5
- Mazda CX-60
- Mitsubishi Outlander
These SUVs performed well in suspension tests but showed mixed results in drivetrain engagement depending on conditions.
Mid-Pack Performers
- Nissan X-Trail — 17 points
- Kia EV5 — 16 points
- Skoda Karoq — 16 points
These models handle gravel roads and mild trails well but show limitations in more demanding terrain.
Lower Rankings: Where Marketing Meets Reality
- Honda CR-V — 15 points
- Subaru Forester — 15 points
- Volkswagen ID.5 GTX — 15 points
- Volkswagen Tiguan — 15 points
Despite strong on-road reputations, these SUVs lack the mechanical hardware or AWD calibration needed for serious off-road challenges.
Bottom of the Table
- Jaecoo J7 — 10 points
- KGM Torres — 5 points
- Toyota RAV4 — 5 points
The results highlight that not all AWD systems are designed for real off-road use, especially those heavily biased toward front-wheel drive.
What This Contest Tells Buyers
This off-road SUV contest reinforces several key lessons:
- AWD badges don’t guarantee off-road ability
- Suspension articulation is just as important as power
- Electronics help, but physical hardware still matters
- Many urban-focused SUVs are not built for rugged terrain
For drivers who regularly deal with dirt roads, snow, or uneven ground, these results offer valuable insight beyond advertising claims.
Final Thoughts & Staying Connected on the Road
Choosing the right SUV can make a big difference when venturing off the beaten path. Just as important is staying connected and prepared, whether you’re navigating remote areas, planning road trips, or managing travel logistics.
That’s where KXZ Store comes in. If you need mobile top-ups, digital gift cards, or reliable digital services while traveling or exploring, visit KXZ Store. KXZ Store helps ensure you stay connected wherever the road — or trail — takes you.