There’s something incredibly satisfying about throwing your SUV off-road. Driving through mud puddles, crawling over rocks, and climbing steep hills just feels amazing when you know your vehicle can handle it. The best part? American auto companies have made some of the toughest and most reliable off-road vehicles around. But how do you choose between all these brands?
Whether you consider yourself a hardcore off-roader or just want something that looks tough and gets the job done, arguments will rage online about Jeep vs Ford vs every other vehicle you can throw off a paved road. We’re here to break down all the strengths (and weird quirks) of each off-roader to help you decide which brand suits your off-road style.
Jeep: Original Off-Road Pioneer
The Jeep brand has been around since the 1940s, earning fame during WWII for it’s durability and ability to maneuver through tough terrain. Built with simplicity, durability, and going-off-the-beaten-path in mind, Jeeps have an unmatched ability to crawl over rocks and through narrow trails. The Jeep Wrangler, our personal favorite, features sturdy axles, a short wheelbase, and a modular frame designed to tackle just about any trail.
One of the greatest benefits of Jeep vehicles is the aftermarket. Want to install lift kits, winches, big tires, or even customizable bumpers? You can. Jeeps have been around for decades which allows owners to really tweak their vehicles to handle any condition. Love crawling over rocks? Install heavy-duty shocks and lift your Jeep for maximum ground clearance. Mud holes are more your thing? Beef up your tires and winch for foolproof recovery. Customizing your Jeep can allow you to tackle the most challenging off-road trails.
Jeep also offers an open-air experience that no other vehicle quite matches. Sure you can remove the top on an SUV, but Jeep makes removing your doors and windshield optional. Jeep’s give you an immersive, outdoorsy feel that you don’t get from other cars. The tradeoff? Jeep’s aren’t the quietest or cushiest rides when the top is off, but few other vehicles let you feel every rock, bump, and gust of wind like a Jeep.
Ford: Rugged and Powerful
Who doesn’t love the power of Ford? Recent entries into the off-roading world have really impressed us with what they can offer drivers. Ford’s F-150 Raptor and Bronco series offer rugged vehicles with comfortable rides and powerful engines. Thanks to advanced shocks, high-output powertrains, and durable bodies these trucks dominate high-speed off-road racing and trail conditions.
Ford vehicles like the Raptor are designed for speed. Whether you’re tackling a desert race or bombing down a windy trail these trucks can go fast. The FOX Live Valve suspension found on models like the Raptor automatically adjusts shock damping to provide maximum traction and stability while you’re driving. No other suspension can mimic the responsiveness of this system which allows you to fly down sand dunes and climb rocky trails with ease.
Ford also focuses heavily on connectivity and comfort inside their vehicles. While Jeep’s might give you the opportunity to fully customize your ride, Ford doesn’t skimp on technology and comfort. Expect touchscreen systems, navigation, and tons of driver-assist features on Ford off-road trucks.
Jeep or Ford? Comparing Capabilities
So how do you choose between these two brands? If you’re wondering Jeep or Ford for off-roading, it really comes down to the type of terrain you drive most often. Jeeps have an unparalleled ability to crawl over rock and through tight trails with their short wheelbase and solid axles. If you’re into low-speed rock crawling and wheel-spinning through tricky trails, Jeep might be your best bet.
Ford trucks really excel at high-speed desert racing, open trails, and anything in-between. Thanks to innovative suspensions, horsepower, and chassis design Ford is perfect for longer off-road excursions at higher speeds. If you’re looking for a truck that can do it all from daily driver to off-road king, Ford is tough to beat.
Budget and modifiability are also important to consider when choosing your off-roader. Jeeps tend to have lower starting prices which means you can spend less up front and upgrade your vehicle over time. You’d be surprised how much you can add to the Jeep as youroff-roading becomes more serious. Fords start higher (especially Raptor models) but include tons of tech and performance features right off the lot.
Ultimately there’s no wrong choice when it comes to picking your off-road vehicle. It all comes down to how you drive, where you drive, and how often you plan on leaving the pavement. Sure one brand might have more horsepower or better suspension, but unless you’re racing your truck every weekend those features won’t matter.
Off-roading is about having fun and enjoying yourself as you mess around in the mud. Both Jeeps and Fords offer reliable, tough vehicles to make sure you never have to worry about a breakdown mid-trip. Spend your money on new tires, roof racks, and all-terrain vehicles….not crash repairs.
As long as your off-roader is driven with care and loads of enthusiasm there’s no right answer to what makes the best American off-roader. Drive safe, and have fun this spring and summer hitting the trails!
