If you’ve never lived in “the sticks,” then let me paint you a picture. There may be corn fields as far as the eye can see, winding backroads, and you may not be able to see even the closest neighbor from your house. Growing up in rural America sure is different from most places, and if you’re searching for vehicles that can take on these challenging environments, SUVs are some of the best choices around, especially when you buy them used. If you’re one of the many searching for used cars for sale, you’ve probably noticed that you have quite a selection to choose from, but what about those traveling through farmland, woods, and other sparsely populated areas? Let’s take a look at some of the best used SUVs for rural drivers so that you can find a better way to take on your backroad adventures.
Chevy Tahoe
This full-size SUV won’t let you down, whether you’re looking to haul a trailer full of hay or one full of livestock to a nearby farm. With incredible strength from its selection of V8 and diesel engines, the Tahoe is capable of holding its own during just about any task. If you want to take advantage of ample power and capabilities, I recommend looking at more recent used models. This way, you’re able to take advantage of game-changing tech, top-notch engineering, and modern appointments to enhance comfort on board. With its standard V8 able to tow up to 8,400 lbs and off-road oriented trims in the lineup, the Tahoe has the strength and agility to withstand the elements. If you’re searching for an SUV that offers all-wheel drive and an improved suspension to help you propel over obstacles and handle the curves of the backroads with precision, the Tahoe Z71 models are worth a test drive.
Subaru Outback
Pretty much everyone recognizes Subaru as one of the most reliable brands out there, but how do its vehicles stand up to rural challenges? You may not be in need of a large-scale hauler like the Tahoe, which makes midsize options, like the Subaru Outback, more in tune with your requirements. Newer Outback models offer standard symmetrical all-wheel drive, which sends the right amount of power to the wheels that need it continuously to ensure the most controlled ride possible. It also showcases high ground clearance to get over fallen branches in the woods or rocky terrain through the fields, as well as durable interior elements that are easy to clean so that even when your travels get a bit muddy, you’re able to get cleaned up and be on your way in an instant. With over 96% of Subaru models still on the road after ten years, the value that this brand offers is unmatched.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
A Jeep won’t let you down when you need to traverse the elements with sheer confidence. The midsize Grand Cherokee is ideal for every type of driver, especially rural families who like to get out and explore. Not only does it display a bold, rugged persona, but it’s also ready to get wild on the trails and anywhere else you’re traveling. This fan favorite boasts Jeep-level 4×4 systems, expert maneuverability, high ground clearance, and durable features designed to take on any type of terrain beneath your tires. It can tow up to 6,200 lbs, which makes it ideal for those working on the farm or traveling into the wilderness with their camper. When it comes to offering ample space for people and cargo, this Jeep best-seller will impress you.
Toyota 4Runner
Another midsize favorite is the 4Runner, known for its Toyota-level reliability and ready-for-anything driving dynamics. The 4Runner is at home in some of nature’s messiest environments, from the trails to the muddy cornfield paths. With rugged design elements and strong underbody protection, the 4Runner can take on rocky terrain and uneven ground like no one’s business. Plus, with newer models featuring an electronic locking rear axle and an off-road-tuned suspension, trekking through rural America is much easier when you can depend on your vehicle.
Honda Passport
Whether you’re heading to the trails with a trailer full of four-wheelers or taking on rough terrain in the fields, the Honda Passport is ready to deliver exceptional power, capabilities, and stability to your time behind the wheel. This rugged midsize SUV showcases an accommodating cabin, with newer models featuring up to 100.8 cu. ft. of space for everything from camping gear to tools, farm supplies, and more. An abundance of ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive, especially when you choose models from its latest generation, help you tackle any task with ease. Plus, when you venture back into town, its V6 engine will provide you with the excitement and efficiency you need to enjoy your time on the road, making the Passport a great option for those needing space, ruggedness, and versatility.
Nissan Pathfinder
When you need three rows to accommodate more people and gear, the three-row Pathfinder will offer the space you demand. It will also offer a 6,000-lb towing capacity, all-terrain tires, a lifted suspension, and more rugged elements when you choose models like the Rock Creek, which is part of more recent Pathfinder lineups. A peppy V6 engine takes you where you need to go with gusto, while plenty of storage solutions inside make it easy to remain organized on the road.
GMC Yukon
Full-size SUVs are ideal in a multitude of situations, from taking the family to all the places they need to go, to completing more challenging tasks like towing or off-roading. This is where the GMC Yukon impresses, with an arsenal of powerful engines at your disposal to help you take on daunting loads, offering a maximum towing capability of 8,400 lbs. Opting for the adventurous AT4 models will grant you access to off-road-ready features, including a sophisticated all-wheel drive system, recovery hooks, and more durable elements to withstand the terrain. Remember, when inclement weather strikes, rural areas are sometimes the last to be cleared, so having a vehicle that can manage snow-covered roadways, icy environments, flooded fields, and more is undeniably important.
Ford Explorer
Plenty of powertrains to choose from and a trim for every driver make the three-row Ford Explorer a top pick for drivers everywhere, especially rural travelers. With its sturdy build, it’s able to hold its own on any surface. When you shop from the selection of newer used models, the off-road features found in Timberline models won’t disappoint. Armed with exceptional all-wheel drive capabilities, a 3.58 Torsen limited-slip rear axle, and multiple skid plates, the Timberline can withstand the harsh elements that tend to accompany rural driving.
Choosing the ideal rural traveler depends on what your journey normally consists of, which is why the above-mentioned models are versatile enough to appeal to any driver’s needs. When you want to have the confidence you require to take on rougher terrain and more rustic elements, these SUVs won’t let you down. No matter whether you’re searching for a vehicle that can hold up on the farm or one that can take on mud-laden backroads, there’s an SUV in this list that will make your time on dirt paths, narrow roadways, and uncharted trails more enjoyable, more capable, and better than you ever envisioned.
