The thrill of off-road escapades appeals to adrenaline junkies and adventure enthusiasts in the Philippines. It’s uniquely exhilarating when you steer through challenging landscapes, push your limits, and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.
Then again, finding the perfect vehicle can be challenging if you’re new to the off-roading scene.
You must consider several factors, from quality tires to a frame that could take a beating. You want a car that can protect you from the perils outside and stand up to whatever nature throws at it.
Fear not; this guide is here to help with your driving adventures. Here are some of the best off-road cars in the Philippines.
4 Features All Good Off-Road Cars Should Have
Having an off-road trip requires more than just a sturdy vehicle. Your car’s features should handle diverse and often challenging terrains. Here are the must-have qualities that distinguish good off-road cars from the rest.
1. The right tires
The foundation of any off-road excursion lies beneath the vehicle—the tires. Off-road tires are not your average treads; manufacturers design them to grip uneven surfaces and navigate through mud, sand, and rocky trails.
Optimal tires should provide your vehicle with traction, stability, and durability. So, when considering an off-road vehicle, pay close attention to the rubber that meets the road and ask questions to learn more about tire threads and the terrains they can traverse.
2. Strong torque
Torque is the force that propels you through challenging landscapes. A high-torque engine ensures that your off-road vehicle can easily tackle inclines and obstacles. It’s one aspect that keeps you moving forward when navigating through tougher surfaces, yet something most novice off-roaders fail to consider.
3. Locking differential
When one wheel loses traction, a locking differential—a crucial off-road feature found in many robust vehicles—seamlessly engages to ensure optimal power distribution among all wheels.
This advanced mechanism prevents the common off-road challenge of a single wheel spinning in place while offering enhanced stability and traction in challenging terrains, such as mud, snow, or uneven surfaces.
4. High ground clearance
A vehicle with ample ground clearance lets you clear obstacles without scraping the undercarriage. Look for a car that rides high for a smoother off-road experience since it reduces the bumpy feeling while traveling.
6 Car Models to Consider for Off-Roading in the Philippines
These standout models boast distinctive features that make them formidable off-road contenders.
1. Toyota Hilux
Toyota Hilux is a durable, reliable off-road companion. Fitted with a robust suspension system, it effortlessly tackles challenging terrains for a smooth and controlled ride.
It takes off-road prowess a notch through versatile configurations, including 4×4 variants, that certify it as a dependable partner for any off-road adventure. While you may think this will set you back by a lot, the Hilux is the most inexpensive off-road car on this list, priced at roughly ₱800,000 to ₱ 2 million, depending on the model.
2. Suzuki Jimny
Despite its small stature, this car has a robust 4×4 system and high ground clearance, making it a powerhouse on any trail.
Beyond its off-road capabilities, the Jimny’s retro-inspired design adds a touch of charm to its adventurous spirit. After all, an off-road experience is not just about performance but also about style. You can get a Suzuki Jimny between ₱1 million and ₱1.2 million based on recent pricing reports.
3. Chevrolet Colorado
Sporting rugged aesthetics, the Chevrolet Colorado has modern tech features such as built-in storage in the tailgate and a bed power outlet. These aspects ensure a comfortable and connected off-road experience. Its high towing capacity also makes it an ideal choice for practical utility.
Are you in the market for an off-roading monster in the medium price range? If so, the Chevrolet Colorado is the one for you, worth between ₱1.2 million and ₱1.6 million.
4. Ford Ranger Raptor
The Ford Ranger Raptor seamlessly combines cutting-edge technology with legendary off-road capabilities. Apart from its luxurious interior that provides comfort even in challenging conditions, it can adapt to various environments with seven selectable drive modes.
It also comes with FOX Shocks, a spring to help dampen the forces that jostle you during off-road drives. For the Ford Raptor, expect to spend approximately ₱1.9 million to ₱2 million, which is well worth the price for the wealth of features you get.
5. Jeep Wrangler
The Wrangler is tailor-made for the most challenging trails and comes with features like heavy-duty axles and rock-trac 4×4 systems. What sets it apart is the option to remove the roof and doors, providing an open-air off-road experience that connects you with nature. For this versatile powerhouse, the price starts at ₱3 million.
6. Land Rover Defender
Land Rover features an entire line of Defenders that you can choose for your next adventure. The Defender 130 features eight seats and the Air Suspension and Adaptive Dynamics system, so you and your company can always be smoothly on the move.
You can also get a Defender that runs on electrical power, with the 110 model boasting rapid DC charging. Land Rover allows you to customize your vehicle to combine features. With these benefits, purchasing a Land Rover for ₱5 million to ₱6 million is quite a steal for many off-roaders.
On Off-Road Trails, You Blaze
From durability to iconic designs and solid features, the best off-road vehicles redefine the meaning of adventure by transforming every trail into an exhilarating experience.
The right tires are also vital for off-roading explorations. At Triangle Tires, we understand the importance of quality wheels in conquering diverse terrains. We offer an assortment of tires, from passenger cars to heavy equipment vehicles, so you’re ready for any off-road escapade.
Browse our tire catalog or contact us today for more information or assistance.
