It is no secret that modern SUVs are just comfy wagons designed to calm your kids with screens in headrests and make your shopping trips more comfortable. Gone are the days when SUV meant off-roading ability first and comfort second.

Arguably, modern models are better built and have more desirable features, but we still miss the good-old-days when you could buy yourself a 4x4 and go across the desert on the weekend.

We have already covered the subject of expensive SUVs that are useless off-road, but let's look at those that are actually able to go off the beaten path and prove that they are not just “soccer mom's express.”

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15 Ford Bronco

autorepublika.com

The biggest premiere of the year in the SUV class is definitely the 2021 Ford Bronco. The official unveiling will take place a few weeks from now, but we already know it will be a no-nonsense off-road beast with a capable 4x4 drivetrain and a host of modern technology.

14 Lexus GX

theglobeandmail.com

Although big, heavy, and expensive, the Lexus GX is much more than just another large SUV. In fact, it is a competent all-terrain vehicle mainly because it is Toyota Landcruiser underneath the Lexus badge. With 4.0-liter V6 or optional 4.6-V8 engine, the GX is ready for adventure.

13 Ford F-150 Raptor

driving.ca

In case you need a vehicle to go to work on weekdays and cross desert and jump dunes on weekends, we got you covered. Just get yourself an F-150 Raptor and enjoy the best off-road vehicle on sale today. With a 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine, 450 hp on tap, this is a supercar in pickup truck guise.

12 Land Rover Defender

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Along with the new Bronco, the 2020 Land Rover Defender represents the new wave of super-capable off-road SUVs that combine the best of both worlds. This resurrected British classic has a recognizable shape, durable construction, powerful engines as well as long list of features.

related: 15 Examples Why Some People Shouldn’t Modify Their SUVs

11 Toyota 4Runner

toyota.com

Even though the current 4Runner has been on the market for 11 years, it is still one of the best-buy SUVs if you want to go off-roading. The rugged construction, a powerful 4.0-liter V6, suspension suited for every challenge, makes this Toyota polar opposite to tarmac-only Rav4 and similar models.

10 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2

chevrolet.com

The mid-size truck game has been pretty exciting recently, with the Colorado ZR2 being the coolest of them all. The ZR2 is a fantastic off-road-oriented package that can be powered with an optional 308 hp engine. Compact, capable, and affordable, the Colorado ZR2 is truly a badass truck.

9 Jeep Wrangler

jeep.com

If you are looking for an all-terrain SUV, the market is pretty much divided into two sides – Jeep Wrangler vs. The Rest. For decades this model was the epitome of the tough off-roader, and today this model is even better. Available as a two-or-four-door configuration (Wrangler Unlimited), it is a “Swiss army knife” of cars.

8 Suzuki Jimny

carscoops.com

This almost Kei-car SUV is one of the cutest, most affordable, and most capable off-roading SUVs you can get. Available only as a boxy, three-door compact, it has a 1.5-liter engine delivering just 100 hp. We admit it doesn’t sound much, but the Jimny is very light, agile, and capable of rock crawling like it is nothing.

7 Toyota Landcruiser

motor1.com

From the outside, the Landcruiser looks like just another fat, soft and expensive urban SUV. To be honest, it did gain some weight, but it didn’t forget its roots and legendary FJ40, which started the breed. The 2020 Landcruiser still knows how to handle rough terrain and be a dependable ally when thighs get tough.

6 Mercedes G-Class

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The legendary G-Class started its life as a military vehicle, but somewhere along the way decided to become a status symbol and décor for hip hop videos. Fortunately, it didn’t forget where it came from, and it is still one of the most dependable vehicles when you find yourself in the middle of nowhere.

related: In The Spotlight: The New Hummer EV Pickup And SUV

5 Ram Power Wagon

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The Ram Power Wagon is based on 2500-series chassis and features a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 with 410 hp. This truck is built for people who need a competent vehicle that can go off-road, cruise the highways, and still look cool when parked. Although pricy, the Power Wagon is the only truck you will ever need.

4 Toyota FJ Cruiser

whichcar.au

We love the classic FJ40 off-roader, and we love the modern-day FJ Cruiser from Toyota. Combining the retro-futuristic styling, powerful engine, and contemporary features, the FJ Cruiser was a perfect lifestyle SUV that wouldn’t disappoint off-road. Too bad that Toyota decided to kill it in 2014.

3 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk

autoexpress.uk

For just a $45,000 base price, you can get yourself a Grand Cherokee Trailhawk and have all the capability of a Wrangler in a much more comfortable and spacious body. Jeep is offering a few extra systems for this model, like increased suspension travel for all your off-road needs.

2 Subaru Outback

caradvice.au

Even though the Subaru Outback is a typical cross-over model you wouldn’t expect much from off-road, you'll be surprised by its capabilities. With signature Subaru's all-wheel-drive system, high body clearance, and 256 hp on tap, the Outback beats the rest of the cars in the class, at least in the wilderness.

1 Jeep Gladiator

jeep.com

For decades customers asked for pickup versions of Wrangler, and Jeep finally answered their prayers. With signature looks, four-door setup, Wrangler Unlimited chassis, and legendary on and off-road capabilities, Gladiator is one of the best and toughest trucks you can find and an instant classic.

next: 15 Cheap SUVs We’d Buy Instead Of A New Land Rover Defender