October 21st 2015
When it comes to off-roading, no place is better than the high dunes of Middle East. That is the reason why it is called the conventional motorsport of this region. But, you need to prepare yourself for such adventure with a right kind of Off-Roader. Stated below are eight best off-roaders (Midsize SUVs) that are most suitable for new drivers.
Land Rover Defender
Land Rover is the manufacturer of best off-roaders and Defender is its most acclaimed SUV for this purpose in its entire lineup. The Land Rover Defender comes with a 2.2 litre four-cylinder engine with six speed manual transmission. Its front and rear beam axle with coil spring suspension ensures maximum wheel contact over uneven ground, while driving off-road. The confirmed price of this four-wheel drive is AED 170,000.
Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
This Japanese production vehicle is widely used as an off-roader by sheikhs across the Middle East. The high performance version uses a 3.5 litre V6 engine with four-wheel drive and four-speed automatic transmission. This midsize SUV can easily grip onto steep and rough surfaces to overcome the off-road obstacles. The 2015 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport is offered at prices between AED 95,000 and AED 110,000.
Nissan Pathfinder
The 2015 Nissan Pathfinder with an independent suspension performs exceptionally well on gravel and delivers a smooth ride on grooved paths. You can also manually deactivate its traction control using ‘VDC Off’ button in centre console. It is built on a standard 3.5 litre V6 engine generating 254hp, while you can choose between front-wheel and four-wheel drive systems. Its price in the UAE ranges from AED 120,900 to 154,900.
Chevrolet Traverse
Featuring a 3.6 litre V6 engine with front and four-wheel drive options and six-speed automatic transmission, the Chevrolet Traverse is classified as an offroad SUV by the American automaker, Chevrolet. Although it is not that good with dunes, Traverse provides great utility while driving through mud and pebbles. In the Middle East, it can be acquired in prices between AED 125,000 and 179,000.
Toyota Fortuner
Although it is not a hard-core off-roader, it is really good on uneven surfaces with its all-wheel drive system powered by differential locks. This helps the SUV to easily find a way out of the mines and pits. It derives power from either 2.7 litre four-cylinder or 4.0 litre V6 engine. With different trims and transmission packages, the Toyota Fortuner is available between AED 99,000 and 131,900.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee comes in a variety of powertrains including 3.6 litre V6, 5.7 litre V8 and 6.4 litre V8 engines. The reason why it’s counted as one of the best off-roaders is its 45% improved crawl ratio of 44.1:1 in its eight-speed automatic transmission that assists in rough terrains. It is available in the Middle East at a starting price of AED 183,999.
Dodge Durango
This SUV is a capable off-roader with a 5.7 litre V8 engine, four-wheel drivetrain and eight-speed automatic transmission. The reason of putting the new Dodge Durango in the list is its extra measure of low range traction that helps escaping from pits. It is offered in the UAE and other Middle Eastern countries at a starting price of AED 149,999.
Lexus GX
This luxury midsize SUV has an advanced off-road chassis control system. Other supportive features include electronic differential locking and steering angle indicator in the gauge panel. Under the hood, it carries a 4.6 litre V8 engine that creates 301hp. However, 4WD is recommended in this scenario. The minimum selling price of Lexus GX 2015 is AED 210,000.
Please bear in mind, before leaving for an off-road adventure, your vehicle must have the required off-roading equipment and accessories to ensure a safe sport.
So, which is your favourite off-roader? Share with us in the comments.