Not everyone needs a hardcore off-road truck or SUV that can jump over boulders. However, some people need a little more dirt roads and slopes for their daily driver. For 2022, a few brand new off-road options are available. They’re no Jeep Wrangler competitors, but these mild off-road vehicles offer a little something extra.
Best Mild Off-Road Vehicles of 2022: Mazda CX-50
According to AutoBuzzMazda’s latest SUV is one of the best mild off-road vehicles of 2022. Plus, it’s a wider version of the CX-5 because US roads allow it. Plus, it uses some excellent extra features to ensure owners can do some off-roading. Although it is certainly a mild model, because Mazda knows that most cars spend their entire lives on the road. With the CX-50, owners get a four-wheel drive system tuned for different riding modes, a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, and an optional 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 256 horsepower.
2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness
Then one of the most popular compact SUVs has a mild off-road finish. By purchasing the Wilderness model, owners get an additional 9.5-inches of ride height, an upgraded suspension, a skid plate and all-terrain tires. Plus, the Subaru all-wheel drive system and 260 hp, 277 lb-ft of torque 2.4-liter four-cylinder give it the power it needs. Basically, the Outback Wilderness is great for light snow, dirt trails, and camping.
Best Mild Off-Road Vehicles of 2022: Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road
Like the Outback, this variant of the RAV4 is mildly capable off-road. RAV4 drivers probably won’t battle a Bronco at rock crawling, but you’re ready to go camping and some light snow. For 2022, the RAV4 TRD Off-Road gets an upgraded suspension, re-tuned coil springs, re-twin-tube valves with internal rebound springs and body control dampers. In addition, buyers will get Falken Wildpeak all terrain tires with 18-inch matte black TRD alloy wheels with every RAV4 TRD Off-Road model.
2022 Honda Passport TrailSport
Next, the Honda Passport TrailSport SUV has an adventurous side. More specifically, Honda has added an Adventure package and the TrailSport trim to make it a little more capable. This mild off-roader gets four-wheel drive, off-road tires and a “robust” appearance. The TrailSport isn’t well equipped for an off-road-focused model, so we’d call it a little milder than the rest.
Best Mild Off-Road Vehicles of 2022: Hyundai Santa Cruz
The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz is a brand new compact truck. For the new model year, it is a Ford Maverick competitor, but offers some off-road capability. In addition, the Santa Cruz can make use of four-wheel drive, reasonable approach and departure angles, and a truck bed. While not huge, the bed is excellent for those camping or simply traveling to a remote location. Hyundai’s new truck is much smaller than a full-size pickup, making it excellent for driving on narrow paths, while maintaining the truck’s capabilities.
2022 Ford Bronco Sport
If you haven’t seen it yet, the Ford Bronco Sport is a scaled-down version of the standard model. It’s a crossover and a mild off-roader, so don’t expect it to offer the power of its bigger sibling. First, it uses Ford’s dual-clutch differential with terrain management system. Next, the Bronco Sport has available finishes and packages to enhance its off-road capabilities. You can compose the crossover to your liking and determine how mild it should be.
Best Mild Off-Road Vehicles of 2022: Kia Seltos
Kia’s smaller SUV offering comes with a bit of off-road capability. CarBuzz says it’s more appealing to drive than the Jeep Compass or Renegade, knocking them off this list. Firstly, it is equipped with a central locking differential with four-wheel drive. In addition, a turbo engine is available, as well as hill descent and hill start functionality. Everything but the base model comes with AWD as standard, so opt for one of the most expensive versions.
Best mild off-roaders of 2022
In short, the best mild off-roaders have some capacity for going off the beaten track, but aren’t too well equipped for such purposes. The best mild off-road vehicles of 2022 are the Mazda CX-50, Subaru Outback Wilderness, Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road, Honda Passport TrailSport, Hyundai Santa Cruz, Ford Bronco Sport and Kia Seltos. In general, each of these models offers enough off-road capability for camping or driving through the woods in the snow. However, we don’t recommend rock climbing with your friend’s Jeep Wrangler.
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