However, if you’re looking to drive through rivers, mud, rubble and whatever weather nature tries to throw at you, you’re probably going to need something a bit more…resilient than your average vehicle. When you go looking for adventure you need your car to keep up with you, no matter what comes your way. So, if that’s what you feel like doing – tackling the wild in one heck of a car – check out this list of some of the best all-terrain vehicles you can get:
Ford F-150 Raptor (2010)
The first Ford Raptor was an absolute monster of a pickup. With its 12 inch suspension, optional 6.2-litre V-8 and 6000 pound body, it truly is like a dinosaur. It’s big, it’s loud, it’s fast and it’s tough as nails. It’s such a powerful and agile machine that even the most novice of drivers feel like a pro behind the wheel. It can go from zero to 60 mph in seven seconds and handles as though it weighs less than half of what it does. The SVT tuned internal-bypass Fox Racing shocks and micro-cellular urethane bum stops so you can guarantee that it will survive any punishing landings you might execute while you’re behind the wheel.
What’s even better about the Raptor is that there’s a new one coming out next year! In 2017 we’re getting ready to see the second generation of Raptors, complete with a new 3.5 litre twin-turbo high-output EcoBoost engine. It can pull off 150 lb-ft. of torque and 450 horsepower. Everyone’s expecting a lot from this 500lb lighter response to the 2010 Raptor and we can only hope it lives up to the hype.
Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro
Unlike the bare, light as possible SR5, the TRD-Pro is made for power. Hardly anyone ever thought it was capable of much, but they probably didn’t think to put it to the test. Firstly, Toyotas are virtually indestructible and the 4Runner is absolutely no exception. It has a 4.0-litre V6 and produces 270 horsepower and 278 pounds of torque. It ploughs through mud and dirt like a duck glides across water, barely breaking a sweat, and it makes smooth transitions. You’ll feel like a king surveying his kingdom from the top of 17-inch wheels. The TRD Pro model is also known to be incredibly comfortable, so tackling those dips and hills will be a lot less painful for you.
Fiat Panda Cross
Are you surprised this is on the list? Most people would be. Despite being a little on the small side – and close to be more humble than powerful – it is a remarkably capable machine when it comes to rough terrain. If you walk into any fiat dealership they’ll give you a good talk on why this is a great all-terrain vehicle. It’s spacious, well equipped and has everything you need to get you through a tough journey. Sure, it’s probably not going to take any bullets for you, but all terrain cars aren’t always about strength. In addition to this, there are a number of car floor mats that have been specially created for these vehicles. This allows you to drive your car all year round whilst protecting the interior. |