Top Picks for Off Roaders

Getting to your favorite campground often requires some trailblazing — and for many drivers, that's half the fun. We looked at SUVs and pickups that will take owners off the beaten path and then some. Then came the subjective considerations, such as dirt-crawling prowess, a pliable suspension and a comfortable interior. Because many of these cars are not crash-tested, they are not drawn from our list of Best Bets.

Best New Car for Off Roaders 2013 Jeep Wrangler Starting MSRP $23,190 The world of capable hardcore four-wheelers is getting smaller these days, but Jeep continues to fight against the desires and tendencies of crossover buyers to keep the rough and rugged Wrangler close to its historical off-road roots. Still designed to be the toughest climber on a remote trail, the Wrangler now offers a more powerful and fuel efficient Pentastar V-6 and benefits from a redesigned interior. The classic styling (still sharing several visual cues with Jeeps from WWII), surround cab roll bars and a removable hardtop, this little SUV has almost no competition.

Best Deal for Off Roaders 2013 Subaru Forester Starting MSRP $22,090 On the other end of the off-roading spectrum from the Jeep Wrangler, but no less filled with outdoor-loving zest and enthusiasm, the Forester offers a much less rough and rugged appearance and design parameters. The package offers a choice of two sturdy four-cylinder engines and several trim packages ranging from $22,000 to $30,000. We've always liked the Forester for its sporty feel and practical function, and we've even climbed a few curbs with it. Of course, it's not a rock climber, but you'll be able to explore just about any dirt road you can find.

Research this car      Build this car

Research this car      Build this car

	Ford F-150 SVT Raptor (2013) Starting MSRP $44,335 An easy standout, the SVT-tuned and created Raptor F-150 is full of integrated traction technology and off-road racing-suspension science. The "pickup-ness" of the truck suffers a bit, but its high- and low-speed 4x4 capability cannot be disputed. Research this car      Build this car

	Jeep Grand Cherokee (2013) Starting MSRP $28,690 The midsize Grand Cherokee offers Jeep its most luxurious and comfy family package, with a choice of V-6 and V-8 engines, several suspension and drivetrain options, as well as a powerfully track-biased SRT8. Be careful; prices climb quickly. Research this car      Build this car

	Jeep Wrangler Unlimited (2013) Starting MSRP $26,690 The Unlimited is the four-door version of our winner, offering 21 inches of extra wheelbase compared with the two-door; that added length allows for two rear-passenger doors and more ride and handling stability, all in a family-friendly package. Research this car      Build this car

	Land Rover LR4 (2013) Starting MSRP $49,950 The LR4 is a strong player for those who must have a sturdy, heavy, 4x4 SUV that occasionally needs to seat seven passengers. Refreshed last year with a few minor changes, LR4s are pricey, starting at $50,000, largely due to the sophisticated Terrain Response four-wheel-drive system. Research this car      Build this car

	Nissan Xterra (2012) Starting MSRP $26,305 Still a favorite for body-on-frame proponents, the Xterra shares the Nissan pickup truck platforms and has a tried-and-true manual shift transfer case lever. A boxier exterior design, and an economical price, will keep this a 4x4 favorite. Research this car      Build this car

	Ram Power Wagon (2013) Starting MSRP TBA Sitting in a class of one, the Power Wagon sits on a Ram HD platform, only comes with the Hemi V-8 and offers three trim packages. All the heavy-duty parts help make it a bulletproof rock crawler but it can punish passengers looking for a more comfortable ride. Research this car      Build this car

	Toyota FJ Cruiser (2013) Starting MSRP $27,725 Toyota's attempt at a Wrangler-fighter offers some quirky four-wheel-drive features and a unique (and also quirky) look, but too much electronic traction control and horrible visibility (from every seat) prevent it from selling in larger numbers. Research this car      Build this car

	Toyota Tacoma Baja T/X (2013) Starting MSRP TBA The Baja T/X is a first step for Toyota to tap into the passion the SVT Raptor seems to be igniting. New springs and shocks, better wheels and tires, and a unique decal package give the desert-racing little pickup some solid off-road credibility. Research this car      Build this car