The Best Affordable Offroad Cars in 2024
For me one of the most exciting things to do is to drive the trails and exploring the great outdoors with a strong and reliable offroad car. But owning an offroad vehicle can often feel like a luxury reserved for those willing to drop tens of thousands of dollars. What if I told you there are affordable offroad cars that are just as tough as the high end offroaders? Whether you’re an experienced offroad enthusiast or someone just starting their offroad journey, there’s something for you on a budget.
Although I love to write about classic cars like the Corvette C5, in this post I’ll share my passion to offroad cars and explore some of the best affordable offroad cars currently on the market. I’ll break them down by brand, comparing their strengths and weaknesses to help you make the best decision for your adventurous weekend as well as your wallet.
What Makes a Good affordable Offroad Car?
Before going into the comparisons, let’s talk about what makes a car great for off-roading. The best offroad cars have key features like:
- Four-wheel drive (4WD): The ability to distribute power to all four wheels gives these cars extra traction in challenging terrains.
- High ground clearance: To navigate rocks, mud, and uneven terrain without damaging the undercarriage.
- Durability and ruggedness: Offroad adventures can be tough on cars, so you need a vehicle that can handle the elements.
- Affordable pricing: The sweet spot where cost meets toughness.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into the best affordable off-road cars in 2024!
1. Jeep Renegade Trailhawk
When we talk about offroading, the Jeep brand always comes to mind. The Jeep Renegade Trailhawk is one of the most affordable off-roaders, combining Jeep’s legendary offroad capabilities with a compact and budget-friendly design. Starting at around $30,000, the Trailhawk edition comes with all-terrain tires, skid plates, and the impressive Jeep Active Drive Low 4WD system.
Pros:
- Off-road performance in a compact body.
- Easy to drive in both city and offroad conditions.
- Excellent ground clearance for its size.
Cons:
- Limited cargo space.
- The small size may feel tight for taller drivers.
2. Subaru Crosstrek
If you’re looking for a nice affordable offroad / crossover vehicle that doubles as a daily driver, the Subaru Crosstrek is a fantastic option. Known for its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, the Crosstrek is built for light offroading but handles perfectly. Priced around $25,000, it offers one of the best balances of affordability, reliability, and off-road capabilities.
Pros:
- Affordable price for a reliable AWD system.
- Excellent fuel economy compared to other off-road vehicles.
- Smooth ride for daily commuting.
Cons:
- Not as rugged as a true 4×4.
- Lacks some of the heavy-duty offroad features found in more expensive SUVs.
3. Toyota 4Runner (Base Model)
If you’re willing to stretch your budget a little, the Toyota 4Runner is an affordable offroad legend. While the higher-end TRD models can cost upwards of $50,000, the base model starts around $40,000 and still offers excellent offroad performance. With its high ground clearance, body-on-frame construction, and available 4WD, the 4Runner can take you almost anywhere.
Pros:
- Known for its durability and long-term reliability.
- Fantastic ground clearance and off-road tech.
- Excellent resale value.
Cons:
- Higher starting price compared to other budget-friendly options.
- Not the best fuel economy.
4. Ford Bronco Sport
While the larger Ford Bronco has stolen most of the headlines, the Ford Bronco Sport is a perfect option for affordable offroad car enthusiasts. Starting at around $30,000, the Bronco Sport brings cool style and impressive offroad features. It comes standard with 4WD, and higher trims offer the G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Terrain) drive modes, making it one of the best vehicles in its class.
Pros:
- Cool, rugged design that turns heads.
- Impressive offroad capabilities for its price.
- Comfortable and tech-filled interior.
Cons:
- Smaller size compared to the full-size Bronco.
- Limited towing capacity.
5. Nissan Frontier PRO-4X
If you’re in the market for a strong pickup, the Nissan Frontier PRO-4X should be on your radar. Priced starting around $38,000, this truck is equipped with everything you need for serious offroading, including Bilstein off-road shocks, skid plates, and an electronic locking rear differential. The Frontier’s powerful V6 engine also gives it plenty of towing and hauling capabilities for your outdoor adventures.
Pros:
- Built for rugged offroad use with heavy-duty features.
- Powerful engine that’s perfect for towing or hauling gear.
- Comfortable ride both on and off the trail.
Cons:
- Higher price compared to smaller SUVs.
- Fuel efficiency could be better.
6. Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
Another excellent pickup for off-roading is the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2. This mid-size truck is built with offroaders in mind, with features like Multimatic shocks, front and rear locking differentials, and skid plates to protect the undercarriage. The price starts around $44,000, so it’s slightly more expensive.
Pros:
- Exceptional offroad performance and durability.
- Locking differentials for enhanced control.
- Great for both offroading and daily driving.
Cons:
- Higher price tag compared to smaller SUVs.
- Some drivers might find the interior too basic for the price.
7. Suzuki Jimny
For those looking for something small, rugged, and super affordable, the Suzuki Jimny is a fantastic choice. Though not available in every market, where it’s sold, it starts at around $20,000, making it one of the most affordable true offroad vehicles you can find. Its compact size allows it to fit in tight spaces on the trail, and it still comes with serious 4WD capabilities.
Pros:
- Incredibly affordable for a true offroader.
- Compact size is great for narrow trails and urban driving.
- Retro and charming design.
Cons:
- Limited availability in some regions.
- Small size might not suit everyone’s needs.
Final Thoughts: Adventure Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank
If you’ve been dreaming of hitting the off-road trails but are worried about the cost, rest assured there are plenty of affordable off-road cars that can deliver the needs without crushing your budget. From compact SUVs like the Subaru Crosstrek to rugged pickups like the Nissan Frontier PRO-4X, the options are diverse and full of potential.
Quick Recap: The Best Affordable Off-Road Cars in 2024
- Jeep Renegade Trailhawk – Compact, capable, and classic Jeep performance.
- Subaru Crosstrek – Affordable AWD for light off-roading.
- Toyota 4Runner (Base Model) – Reliable and rugged, with a higher price point.
- Ford Bronco Sport – A stylish, capable, and more affordable Bronco option.
- Nissan Frontier PRO-4X – A solid off-road pickup truck with a powerful engine.
- Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 – Tough and capable, but pricier.
- Suzuki Jimny – Super affordable and compact, ideal for budget adventurers.
