Off-road adventurers want sports utility vehicles (SUVs) with high performance and reliability. But, efficiently handling rugged terrains is just one expectation for the modern SUV. The best off-roaders also provide luxuries like space, comfort, innovative tech, and lots of style while also satisfying more practical concerns such as fuel efficiency and value for money.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the best off-road options out there before crowning one as the best 4x4 SUV Canada has to offer.
We know what’s important to 4x4 SUV drivers in Canada. That’s why we use the following criteria to help drivers separate the signal from the noise and find the very best 4x4 SUV for their needs and lifestyle.
Let’s take a look at the best on and off-road SUV options for 2025.
Clutch Rating: 4.0/5
The 2025 Rubicon is still the leading off-road vehicle in the Jeep Wrangler lineup. It offers superb performance, tech, and bags of style, and thanks to an advanced 4x4 system and heavy-duty axles, it tops our list with a solid 4 out of 5.
The Rubicon is the perfect adventure vehicle for off-road enthusiasts and thrill seekers who want to handle rugged terrain with minimal fuss. However, it will also be a sound choice for anyone who wants a customizable SUV for daily use and wild weekend excursions.
The 2025 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon comes with a few neat upgrades like side-curtain airbags, a smartphone-controlled Active Cabin Ventilation system, and power locks and power windows as standard.
The 2025 Rubicon comes in several different configurations starting at around $65,000.
Two-door Rubicon: Starts at $65,685
Four-door Rubicon: Starts at $68,185
Two-door Rubicon X: Starts at $78,980
Four-door Rubicon X: Starts at $76,485
The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is a strong contender in the used market, particularly valued for its legendary off-road capabilities and customizable features. Used Rubicons are popular for those seeking a durable, adventure-ready vehicle, and previous model years offer solid performance on rugged terrain. Clutch offers a selection of pre-owned Wranglers, ideal for off-road enthusiasts looking for a capable SUV.
Clutch Rating: 3.9/5
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner is the sixth generation of this iconic SUV. For us, this is the second-best 4x4 SUV in Canada right now, with a score of 3.9.
The 4Runner is a flexible vehicle that appeals to adventure enthusiasts, outdoor lovers, and even families who need a daily car and a weekend motor. It also has impressive off-road capabilities and powerful towing, making it suitable for work in the hardiest environments.
The Toyota 4Runner is already a top-rated top rated 4x4 SUV. The 2025 version adds a couple of new powertrains, including a welcome hybrid option for higher trims. The exterior is improved, while the interior is totally revamped, along with the addition of a few more features for Toyota Safety Sense 3.0.
Prices for the 2025 Toyota 4Runner have yet to be announced, but early indications suggest the figures, such as:
SR5: $56,000 to $60,000
TRD Pro, Trailhunter, and Platinum: $90,000 and upwards.
The Toyota 4Runner is widely regarded in the used market for its reliability and off-road prowess. Previous 4Runner models are known to retain their value and provide a strong performance across diverse terrains, making them an excellent choice for adventurers and families alike. Clutch provides well-maintained used 4Runners, delivering Toyota’s durability and a proven track record.
Clutch Rating: 3.8/5
Thanks to its upgraded suspension, advanced tech, and enhanced power, the Ford Bronco Raptor is the number one off-road SUV in the Bronco lineup. But has it done enough to compare with the best 4WD SUVs in Canada? It made third place on our list with a solid 3.8.
The Ford Bronco Raptor is definitely geared towards outdoor enthusiasts because of its outstanding performance. It’s quick, aggressive, and able to handle extreme off-road terrain. What’s more, it’s stylish and reliable enough to appeal to collectors, too, although it might lack the space and comfort for more typical drivers.
The 2025 Bronco Raptor adds a few new features, including an updated SYNC infotainment system and Fox Live Value shocks.
Ford hasn’t released the prices for the Bronco Raptor in Canada just yet. However, early speculation suggests a price point between $110,000 for entry-level models and as much as $130,000 for higher trims.
As a highly sought-after model in the used SUV market, the Ford Bronco Raptor offers a combination of style, power, and advanced off-road technology. With its robust build and solid performance, a used Bronco Raptor is ideal for off-road enthusiasts who want a premium off-roading experience at a more accessible price point. While Clutch doesn’t typically stock the Raptor, we do have a selection of used Broncos that cater to those looking for a more affordable price point.
Clutch Rating: 3.8/5
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk is a rugged mid-size SUV with a lot of flexibility. Indeed, it’s one of the best on- and off-road SUVs out there, and it comfortably makes it to number four on our list with a more than respectable 3.8.
The Grand Cherokee Trailhawk is built for anyone who wants a daily driver that can handle more challenging terrain from time to time. It’s also going to work for families that need space, comfort, and good safety features.
No big changes for the 2025 Trailhawk.
The Laredo trim starts at $58,270, while at the other end of the spectrum, the Summit Reserve is available for $85,270.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk is a reliable choice in the used 4x4 SUV market, offering comfort for daily driving and capability for off-road excursions. Known for its spacious interior and Jeep’s renowned Quadra-Drive II system, previous Trailhawk models are perfect for families and adventure lovers alike. Clutch provides options for pre-owned Grand Cherokees, offering durability and versatility for a range of driving conditions.
Clutch Rating: 3.8/5
The 2025 Ford Explorer has undergone a significant refresh. This versatile and high-performance SUV has new tech and interiors and updated styling, which are enough to get the popular off-roader a worthy 3.8 on our list of the best 4x4 SUVs in Canada.
The 2025 Ford Explorer is a great mid-size SUV that will suit family life. It’s a fine day-to-day drive, but it’s got enough versatility for road trips and a bit of light off-road action. Overall, the Explorer has a great mix of comfort, performance, and utility, which gives it a broad appeal.
The 2025 Explore has an interior and exterior upgrade, while the infotainment system gets a new 13.2-inch touchscreen. The BlueCruise hands-free driving technology is available. However, it’s a subscription only.
The four trims for the Ford Explorer start at:
XLT 4WD: $50,535
ST LINE 4WD: $56,535
Platinum 4WD: $60,635
ST RWD: $69,135
A used Ford Explorer is a versatile option, popular for its spacious interior and off-road potential. Older Explorers deliver solid performance for both city driving and weekend adventures, making them a great choice for families. Clutch offers well-kept used Explorers, ideal for those seeking a comfortable yet capable mid-size SUV.
Clutch Rating: 3.8/5
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands is one of the best small four-wheel drive SUV options around. This premium trim Bronco is affordable, boxy and rugged, which is why we’ve awarded it with a 3.8.
The Bronco Sport Badlands is a versatile SUV. It’s good for the outdoors and the city, which is why it’s perfect for adventures that want solid performance and a stripped-back aesthetic. While it doesn’t quite have the full-sized Bronco’s off-road qualities, it’s still an attractive and more than capable off-roader.
The Bronco Sport Badlands gets a new 13.2-inch infotainment system and a 12.3 digital instrument cluster. Ford has also added the Sasquatch package with upgraded shocks, tires, and suspension.
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands starts at $48,995, but with options, the base price goes over $50,000.
The Ford Bronco Sport Badlands is a standout in the used market for its compact size and advanced off-road capabilities. A used Bronco Sport Badlands is perfect for urban adventurers needing a capable SUV for both city and off-road trails. Clutch offers a selection of pre-owned Bronco Sport models, including the Badlands trim, combining off-road readiness with everyday practicality.
Clutch Rating: 3.8/5
The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek is a rugged 4x4 SUV. It’s a variant of the much-loved Pathfinder but with better performance and style. It makes our list of the best 4x4 SUVs in Canada and comes in with a score of 3.8.
The Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek is an ideal vehicle for active families who love a bit of adventure at the weekend. This spacious seven-seater has plenty of room in its three rows. However, it’s worth noting that the cargo space isn’t exactly market-leading.
There are no significant changes for the 2025 model.
Nissan hasn’t released the 2025 prices yet, but forecasts suggest it will be between $55,000 and $60,000.
The Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek variant is a versatile 4x4 SUV popular in the used market for its spacious interior and rugged design. Known for its towing capacity and off-road capability, the Rock Creek is ideal for families seeking adventure-ready options. Clutch offers well-maintained used Pathfinder models, providing a reliable choice for active lifestyles.
Clutch Rating: 3.8/5
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness is a durable variant of the ever-popular Crosstrek subcompact SUV. While it’s not a 4x4, it’s a great, low-cost AWD drive vehicle with all-terrain tires and enough ground clearance to make it a viable off-road option. We liked it so much that we scored it at 3.8.
The Crosstrek Wilderness is for anyone who wants a compact SUV capable of handling the outdoors. Campers, hikers, and wilderness lovers who also need a reliable and practical daily drive will be more than happy with the 1,565 litres of space with the rear seats folded.
After a major 2024 redesign, the 2025 Crosstrek is largely unchanged.
Though not yet confirmed, the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness is expected to start at around $38,000 to $40,000, depending on options and packages.
The Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness is valued in the used market for its affordable entry into off-road capabilities. Pre-owned Crosstrek Wilderness models are excellent for those needing a compact SUV that handles outdoor trails with ease, making them perfect for campers and hikers. Clutch has a range of used Crosstrek models for drivers looking for reliable off-road functionality in a compact package.
Clutch Rating: 3.4/5
The Jeep Compass Trailhawk is the most off-road-ready version of the Jeep’s compact SUV line. It adds 4x4 capabilities and rugged styling to the Compass’ solid on-road performance and makes our list with a decent score of 3.4.
The Compass Trailhawk is ideal for anyone who wants a daily drive that comes with genuine off-road capabilities. There is comfortable seating for five adults and 438 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, meaning the SUV is a viable option for families, too.
Some new exterior colour options for the 2025 version, but not much else.
The 2024 Jeep Compass Trailhawk starts at $45,720 in Canada
The Jeep Compass Trailhawk offers off-road capabilities in a compact SUV, making it a practical choice in the used market. A pre-owned Compass Trailhawk is ideal for drivers who want a versatile, everyday vehicle with the ability to handle rough terrain. Clutch offers used Compass models, providing an affordable off-road option without compromising on comfort or practicality.
Ready to choose the best 4x4 SUV for your family and save time and money doing it? Clutch can save you a ton and deliver convenience by selecting one of our quality used off-road SUVs online. Whether it’s a Jeep Wrangler or a powerful Ford Bronco Raptor, we have tons of quality off-road SUVs in stock and ready for delivery.
At Clutch, you can rest assured you’re getting a high-quality off-road SUV, as every vehicle we sell goes through a 210-point inspection and reconditioning process.
Does buying a used car 100% online make you nervous? Let us ease your mind with our optional 10-Day Money-Back Guarantee: if you don‘t love your Clutch SUV during this time, we’ll exchange it for a new one or take it back and issue you a no-questions-asked refund.
Explore our online pre-owned SUV inventory today and find the best off-road SUV for your family. You can complete the purchase, set up auto financing, and even get firm offer for your trade-in vehicle 100% online — no trips to the dealership necessary.
