Best On-Road and Off-Road SUVs in Australia

With beautiful land and a vast expanse that brings nature together with the masterpieces and marvels of mankind, Australia is a gem. To see what it has to offer, it's best to do it in style.

If you're shopping for a new or new-to-you vehicle, go with something that allows you to have more than just a little fun. Be adventuresome and enjoy life! Delve into the landscape and travel through cities in something that does it all. Here are the highest-ranking SUV rides for those who want to experience the best of both worlds.

The Best SUVs for Australian City Driving and Off-Roading

The car market is broad, so there are many fantastic options if you want to find the best off-road SUV that can also handle the pavement. All of these vehicles are tried and true, tested time and time again for their capabilities, durability, and adaptability. Built for rugged terrain and designed to take a beating, they each allow you to savor your drive in a comfortable and inviting way.

Put the pedal to the metal and cruise through this list to figure out which set of wheels will take you on your next road trip.

1. Jeep Wrangler

Naturally, the Jeep Wrangler tops the list as the best off-road SUV. For decades, it has been the go-to ride for excitement and adventure. Its versatility is a blast! With the signature Trail Rated designation, removable doors, and iconic design, it was built for fun. Boasting a 4x4 all-wheel drive, it's meant to blaze through obstacles and switchbacks alike. Its articulating suspension provides amazing ground clearance and flex.

This excellent off-road performance is matched by its convenient features. Made to get dirty, the Jeep has its electrical components tucked away for added protection. Its interior is made to drain away water, and it cleans easily. Overall, it's a solid, sturdy, and faithful ride that continues to dominate the market.

2. Ford Bronco

After a lengthy hiatus, the Ford Bronco is back! Designed to go head-to-head with the Jeep, the Bronco certainly lives up to this status. With a number of packages to choose from, it incorporates such features as locking diffs and trail assist for a smooth and grounded drive.

Standard highlights include wireless smartphone connectivity, removable sunroof and doors, push-button start, a 360-degree camera, and a rubberized interior. Hill assist and descent control are standout features, too. Having over 200 additional options, it's easy to see why people can't say enough about this reborn SUV.

3. Land Rover Defender

The Land Rover has been a staple of wild and crazy outback adventures for decades. Now, the Defender is reintroducing itself as a worthy contender for the best off-road SUV that can handle rugged land and smooth asphalt with equal ease. Don't let its midsize luxury name fool you because this ride doesn't shy away from a challenge.

Great off-road capabilities come standard with the Defender. So does all-wheel-drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. LED lights, heated seats and mirrors, a 360-degree camera, and a host of intelligent safety features make it a vehicle you can't ignore. Its luxurious interior comfortably fits five, but options are available for more seating. Finally, you can tailor this SUV to your liking with numerous trim packages.

4. Toyota Land Cruiser

From the very reliable Toyota name, the Land Cruiser is a large SUV that will get you where you need to go, complete with a full load of passengers. With a better interior than older models, comfort and roominess team up with cargo space for a luxurious ride.

The base and Heritage models function in relatively the same way, both powered by a 5.7-liter V8 engine with 284 Kw and 543 Nm of torque. Toyota's Land Cruiser is a beast with very good off-road capabilities, that's for sure!

5. Mercedes Benz G-Class

The Mercedes Benz G-Class is for those who want to get what they pay for. A super-luxury SUV, it comes with a high price tag, but packs everything in its unmistakable and distinguished look, which hasn't changed much since the 1970s. Its boxy appearance seems like an old-style SUV, which fans and purists find endearing. But within, it has a magnificently comfortable luxury interior that includes all the latest technology you can handle, and then some.

Arguably the most capable off-road SUV, the G-Class has three lockable diffs. A turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine runs this nine-speed automatic four-wheel-drive ride. There are two trims for the G-Class, which slightly differ in options, but buyers can choose from elegant features like customized interiors and ventilated massaging seats. If you want to trek the city and country in the height of class and sophistication, the G-Class is for you!

Honorable Mentions

In addition to the top five versatile SUVs, there are some other great options out there for you to look into. Though these just missed the official cut, they're worthy of mentioning due to their stellar features and abilities.

• Land Rover Discovery

Land Rover keeps delivering the hits! The Discovery has a notably smooth ride for city driving but can also tackle rugged landscapes. A comfortable midsize SUV, it's great for family adventures as it incorporates third-row seating as a no-cost option. Four-wheel-drive, a turbocharged engine, and eight speeds come standard on the Discovery. With several trim packages to choose from, you're guaranteed to find something that suits your tastes if you're eyeing the mid-range market.

• Toyota 4runner

This is one of the last traditional truck-based SUVs on the market. Large and in charge, the TRD Off-Road lineup features a four-wheel drive, a high ground clearance, and additional drive settings. Locking rear diffs and Toyota's optional unique KDSS suspension system make the TRD a prime candidate for rocky-contour articulation. This is definitely an SUV you need to consider if you want a classic vehicle with comfortable and smart convenience.

The Wrap-Up

This list offers an excellent starting point for learning about what the SUV market features today. It's designed to steer you in the right direction so you can figure out which vehicle will work best for your specific needs.

And remember, no matter what best off-road SUV you go with, always check it out first at Vindocs.com.au. Here you'll find the most comprehensive, thorough, and current report of a used car's record. Don't be surprised by an unwanted issue when you're cruising the outback or out on the town. Go with Australia's most extensive and reliable source of detailed information for your vehicle's history!