There are definitely fewer hardy, off-road-worthy vehicles than there were a decade ago, but the models remaining are more rugged and trail-focused than ever.
The current Jeep Wrangler Unlimited has msintained this model's reputation, with very boxy, rugged styling combined with phenomenal off-road ability, and for 2012 it gets an all-new (and much more refined) powertrain: Chrysler's strong Pentastar V-6 and five-speed automatic.
Like the Xterra, Toyota's FJ Cruiser hasn't changed significantly in many years; it's not at all a family vehicle but appeals to either young people or purists who want off-road capability.
For families who also need off-road ability, the Toyota 4Runner Trail model might be a better alternative than the four-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.
Finally, if you have a higher budget and want a little more luxury with that true off-road ability, check out the Land Rover LR4.
Get FREE Dealer Quotes
 2012 Nissan XterraBrowse Used Listings |  2012 Jeep WranglerBrowse Used Listings |  2012 Land Rover LR4Browse Used Listings |  2012 Toyota 4RunnerBrowse Used Listings |  2012 Toyota FJ CruiserBrowse Used Listings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quick Specs | ||||
|
If you have a lot of gear to haul to tough-to-reach places, the 2010 Nissan Xterra is a good choice for weekend adventurers. |
The off-road-hardy 2012 Jeep Wrangler is still fine-tuned for adventurous weekend warriors, but it's become a little more tolerable for the commute. |
The 2012 Land Rover LR4 is a burly off-roader with a luxurious, high-class interior; just don't expect it to handle or perform like a car or crossover. |
The brawny 2012 Toyota 4Runner targets off-road purists who sometimes need to haul the family—and it's better on the highway than you might think. |
If head-turning style and true trail toughness are priorities, the 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser stands above most SUVs—although families and city commuters need not apply. |
| MSRP From | ||||
| $25,480 | $22,045 | $48,900 | $31,090 | $26,115 |
| Gas Mileage | ||||
| 15 MPG City / 22 MPG Hwy | 16 MPG City / 21 MPG Hwy | 12 MPG City / 17 MPG Hwy | 17 MPG City / 23 MPG Hwy | 15 MPG City / 20 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | ||||
| Gas V6 | Gas V6 | Gas V8 | Gas V6 | Gas V6 |
| EPA Class | ||||
| 2WD Sport Utility | 4WD Sport Utility Vehicles | 4WD Sport Utility Vehicle | Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Style Name | ||||
| 2WD 4-Door Automatic X | 4WD 2-Door Freedom Edition | 4WD 4-Door | RWD 4-Door V6 SR5 (GS) | RWD 4-Door Automatic (GS) |
| Drivetrain | ||||
| Rear Wheel Drive | 4-Wheel Drive | All Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | ||||
| 5 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | ||||
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | ||||
| Sport Utility | 2 Door | 4 Door | Sport Utility Vehicle | 4 Door |
| Transmission | ||||
| Automatic | Manual | Automatic w/OD | Automatic w/Manual Shift | Automatic |
| Detailed Spec Comparison | ||||
| 2012 Nissan Xterra vs. 2012 Jeep Wrangler | 2012 Nissan Xterra vs. 2012 Land Rover LR4 | 2012 Nissan Xterra vs. 2012 Toyota 4Runner | 2012 Nissan Xterra vs. 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser | |
