Toyota 4Runner

You’ve got a legend in the making with the 4Runner. One of the last SUVs built with a body-on-frame design for extreme ruggedness and dependability, 4Runner is available with Bilstein shocks and TRD-tuned springs to even out the rough bumps you’ll be traversing. It’s equipped with Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) for optimal control in all driving conditions (even mud) and the CRAWL Control modulates the throttle and brakes on that uneven terrain. The interior is chock full of goodies like Entune App Suite for Pandora radio, SiriusXM, and more, and object detection sensors keep you and your additional six passengers from encountering damaging obstacles.

Advertisement

Nissan XTerra

Perhaps the most utilitarian of the bunch is the XTerra. It goes everywhere you want it to go courtesy of the 261-horsepower V6 under the hood, and the drivetrain is so rugged and direct, it’s even available in a 6-speed manual version. It’s claim to fame in the outdoors category is all of the versatility. There is a roof-mounted cargo basket, tie-down channels in the rear cargo area, and roof-mounted fog lights. You also get a liftgate-mounted first aid kit, and not to mention an available hatch tent to integrate your vehicle into your sleeping quarters.

Honda Pilot

Advertisement

Maybe not an option you’d expect to see in the outdoors category is the Pilot. As more of a pavement-pounder in previous years, it is now equipped to handle more than ever. With an Intelligent Traction Management system, the all-new all-wheel drive system is capable of traversing wet, snowy, and yes, even muddy terrain within reason. The engine bay is blessed with a powerful 280-horsepower engine to power you through those sticky situations. While not a true 4WD model, it can handle towing the boat to the lake or camping trips with ease. And if the weather turns for the worse, pop a DVD into the 9-inch rear entertainment system and watch a flick while the rain passes

View on One Page