The 9 Best Road Trip Cars for All-Terrain Adventuring
Camping, hiking, and fishing are a few of many outdoor activities that are great recreational hobbies and offer an escape from the often tiresome city life. When the office feels too cluttered, or the schedule has been cleared and ready for a vacation, driving out to a lake or getting off-road can be just what you need.
To do any of these things, however, driving a car that says “Yes” to rough terrain, muddy swaps, and off-road routes is a must-have. A car designed specifically for bumpy and harsh roads is lighter, has higher clearance, and better wheels for a smoother ride.
There are a lot of brands in the market right now that advertise off-road vehicles. However, which of these are actually the best road trip cars for all-terrain adventuring?
Well, we’re here to help you figure out which one to buy. We’ll go over their top speed, fuel consumption, maintenance, general public opinion, and more to give you the best breakdown of these cars.
With that being said, let’s get started!
1. Land Rover Defender
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A classic and general favorite, Land Rover is a household name for 4×4 and off-road vehicles. The Defender is a monster vehicle built for the rough road with 18’’ all-season tires and an all-wheel drive. For those of you extra-safe readers, there are six airbags, a 360⁰ parking aid camera, Lane Keep Assist, and emergency braking.
The Defender gets up to 118 mph with its maximum speed, which is more than enough for most highways. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 7.7 seconds, making it a great car on and off the road. The 2021 model offers a 48-volt hybrid system, so it’s somewhat of an electric car. With almost a foot of ground clearance, the Defender can clear through nearly three feet of water.
Land Rover is well-known for its pristine and premium-quality interior, and the Defender is no different. The seats and dashboard offer a minimalist design, which fits aesthetically well when you’re already pacing up a mountain trail.
2. Mercedes G-Wagen
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Mercedes might be known more for being a luxury brand, but the G-Wagen is here to make you think otherwise. The G-Wagen checks off everything on the list when it comes to an all-wheel-drive, 4-door hatchback with self-parking assist. In fact, Mercedes went above and beyond with this and gave it an engine that accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds.
The twin-turbocharged 32-valve V-8 engine makes the G-Wagen a hybrid car. On the highway, you can drive up to 137 mph with its 577 hp engine. With a crankshaft making 6,000 revolutions per minute, it’s safe to say that the G-Wagen is definitely one of the faster off-road vehicles on this list.
Obligatory fun fact: If you’re a safety nut, Mercedes is actually known for being the safest car brand in the world. The engineers in Mercedes-Benz have been leading the industry for years, being the ones to introduce the crumple zone in cars all the way back in 1951, and the Anti-lock Braking System in 1978.
3. Jeep Cherokee
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Jeeps. It’s sacrilegious to have a conversation about off-road vehicles without mentioning Jeep. The Cherokee is an SUV that’s spanned over five generations, with its earliest release arriving in 1974. With a historical portfolio like that, you’re going to find a vehicle that’s been polished time and again to be one of the best.
The Cherokee has one of the best fuel consumption rates on this list, taking up an average of 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The DOHC 24-valve V-6 engine provides enough horsepower, at 271 hp, to accelerate the vehicle from 0 to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds. Not the fastest on this list, but we’ll give it a pass with how much fuel you’re saving per mile.
If you’re not a huge fan of the rugged and square aesthetic of most off-road vehicles, then the Cherokee is an excellent choice for an all-terrain adventuring vehicle.
4. Nissan Patrol
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The Japanese don’t shy away from off-road terrain, in fact, Nissan offers a great SUV for the all-terrain market. The Patrol has a 5.6L V-8 DOHC engine that gets up to 275 hp. The 20’’ inch wheels, like all previous entries, come in handy with the all-wheel drive. You can fit up to 7 passengers in the car comfortably, so there’s plenty of room for the gang.
Not only are you greeted by one of the prettiest interiors on this list, but you’re also listening to 13 premium Bose speakers. If you’re the type to go on a road trip with the windows down and the volume up, then get your John Denver playlist ready because the country roads are about to hear some of the best singing in the world.
The clearance on the Patrol gets up to 10 inches, which puts it up there as one of the taller vehicles on this list.
5. Chevrolet Suburban
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It’s as if Chevrolet went into this thinking “Where am I gonna put the fridge?” The Suburban is an incredibly large SUV and Chevrolet held nothing back when manufacturing this giant. It fits up to nine occupants and has more cargo space than any SUV on the market. The vehicle has two V-8s and a diesel 6-cylinder engine all connected to a 10-speed transmission.
Of course, the Suburban has an all-wheel option, which means you and its 22-inch wheels can ride up almost any type of rough terrain. The fuel consumption on this mean-looking SUV is at 15 mpg on the city and 22 mpg on the highway, which isn’t too bad considering just how large it is. If you’re looking for a car you can fit half the house into, the Suburban is looking right at you.
At just $50,000, this is an inviting price when compared to some of the higher-priced entries on this list.
6. Toyota Land Cruiser
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The largest car manufacturer in the world has anything and everything, including off-road vehicles. Toyota’s Land Cruiser revs up to 5,600 revolutions with an engine power of 381 hp. Although not the fastest with an acceleration of 0 to 60 mph in 7 seconds, the Land Cruiser is definitely up there with other 4×4 vehicles when it comes to off-road capabilities. You can drive this on the highway at an estimated maximum of 130 mph.
If you’re particular about fuel, as you should be with oil prices getting higher and higher, the Toyota Land Cruiser drives 13 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the highway. Just like the Nissan Patrol, the Land Cruiser boasts a total of 14 JBL speakers inside the car – pretty much one of the best audio experiences you can buy with a vehicle. It’s a little smaller than most SUVs here, supporting only five people, but has enough room to keep everyone comfy.
7. Suzuki Jimny
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The Suzuki Jimny is the perfect budget off-road vehicle for a small family or group of friends. First off, it’s a 4-passenger vehicle with only two doors. While you shouldn’t expect a lot of space from this car, it’s a very affordable vehicle for what it offers. The Jimny is an off-road vehicle first and foremost, and with a vertical clearance of 8 inches, you can get past most rocky terrain easily.
Packing in a DOHC 16-valve engine, the car pushes with 101 hp at 6,000 revolutions per minute. Its acceleration isn’t the best, with its 0 to 60 coming around 12 seconds. While that might seem lackluster, the Jimny starts around $22,000, which is pretty good for a modern off-road vehicle. It’s definitely the most affordable option on this list and represents the best off-road car out of other off-road vehicles priced at this range.
Even at that price, you get an all-wheel-drive that’s meant to take you anywhere. If you want a real off-road car, the Jimny is a proper 4×4 vehicle that checks all the marks for an all-terrain adventure.
8. Volkswagen Camper Van
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It’s not a list about the best road trip cars for all-terrain adventuring if you don’t mention Volkswagen. The German brand has a lot of cars on this list and takes the cake for having the most aesthetically pleasing vehicle. This classic camper van offers a DOHC 16-valve engine that’s turbocharged and intercooled with a power of 201 hp. On the inside, the materials, seats, build quality, and digital accessories are premium and worth the price.
For fuel consumption, we’re looking at 17 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway, so it isn’t the best car for fuel economy. The 17’’ wheels aren’t the largest, so don’t expect to run the Camper Van on the worst roads out there. It makes up for the fuel and wheel size by having a lot of space inside, with the seats at the back folding and offering a ton of space.
It’s not the Suburban, but it’s definitely a van that was made for camping.
9. International Scout
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Although the Scout has been discontinued since 1980 by International Harvester when it became Navistar, it’s still a great choice for off-road driving. International Harvester used to be an American manufacturer of agricultural equipment, which included automobiles. With that kind of background, it’s no wonder the Scout performed well off the road.
The Scout had so many iterations, like the Scout II, Terra, and 800 edition, just to name a few. Because there are so many, we can’t give a specific spec list for this car. However, the Scout II, which is the most recognizable Scout variation, had the following engine options consumers could choose from, 196 4-cylinder, 232 6-cylinder, 258 6-cylinder, 304 V-8, and 345 V-8.
It’s a notable fact that during the 1980s the Scout essentially won almost all off-road races like the Baja 250, Lake Geneva Raceway, Baja 1000, and more.
The Best 14 Leather Jackets for Men in 2021
With the winter months (hopefully) dwindling down, it’s time to start planning ahead to a time where we can wear thinner jackets and fewer layers. While it may be tempting to quickly shed your parka and grab for whatever piece of outerwear is nearby, don’t reach for last year’s wardrobe item just yet. Isn’t it time you try something new, like, say, a leather jacket?
Though it may seem all leather jackets are similar, there are actually many different designs and styles that work for different body types and tastes. In this article, we will take a look at the hottest leather jacket trends that have hit the market this season.
Best Buy
1. Aaron Brown Leather Bomber
The Aaron Brown Leather Jacket from The Jacket Maker is an excellent choice for any guy looking for that traditional bomber look. This awesome jacket features a slim cut and ribbed cuffs and waist. It’s made with incredibly tough, yet soft, goatskin leather, making it a great choice for guys that aren’t used to wearing leather jackets.
One of the best things about the Aaron is that it shirks the classic pouch pockets on the lower half of the jacket, opting for two buttoned patch pockets on the chest instead. This design gives it a more streamlined look than most bombers, without taking away from any of the authenticity.
2. Saint Laurent Leather Biker Jacket
There is a reason why leather jackets and bikers are usually associated with one another. Historically, many motorcycle riders have seen a leather jacket as a stylish way to protect themselves, not only from the elements but also from the possibility of a crash. While this may seem hard to believe – it’s not like leather comes with a large amount of padding, after all – leather has actually been shown to offer more protection than your average vinyl jacket or equivalent.
Maybe you’re not hopping on a motorcycle anytime soon, but you can still treat yourself to this biker-inspired Saint Laurent leather jacket. With a price tag surpassing $5,000, it’s certainly our premium pick on this list, but if you’re looking for the leather jacket of a lifetime, you have it right here. This pick is sure to come with the “for life” quality Saint Laurent is particularly known for.
3. Reiss Keith Leather Cafe Racer Jacket
Reiss is a British fashion retailer that’s been around since the 1970s. For the first 30 years of its brand history, it focused solely on men’s fashion before eventually expanding to carry items for women as well. However, the fact high-quality items for men are at the heart of this brand is very apparent through their simple wardrobe staples such as the Keith leather cafe racer jacket.
This Reiss jacket comes at a considerably lower price point than its counterparts, which makes it a pick that packs a lot of value. It’s made from super-soft leather and features a full lining. It’s the perfect choice for anybody who prefers a slim-fit jacket.
4. Lavendard Brown Leather Bike Jacket
The Jacket Maker has something for everyone, including guys that are a bit intimidated by purchasing their first leather jacket. Not only is the Lavendard incredibly affordable, but it also has a really approachable look despite its biker moniker. With open hem cuffs and a tailored fit, it looks great with badass-inspired outfits as well as everyday wear.
The Lavendard is made of real cowhide, which means it will take on a great patina over time. But it might be a bit stiff when you first get it. The more you wear it, the faster it’ll form to your body, break-in, and soften up. The fact that it goes with so many outfits will help speed up that process.
5. Ksubi Capital Leather Jacket
The Capital Leather Jacket from Ksubi comes in 100% authentic leather and is designed to have a biker fit. It’s heavy-duty with a protective interior quilted lining. It also features retro details such as antique zippers.
Kusbi is an Australian fashion label that’s existed since the 1990s. While the brand was originally focused on high-end denim, they’ve expanded their offerings over time to include other textiles such as leather. Items from Ksubi’s collections have been shown at such high-profile events as New York Fashion Week and London Fashion Week, and the company operates a flagship store in New York’s SOHO neighborhood.
6. Acne Studios Off-Centred Zipper Biker Jacket
Swedish fashion powerhouse Acne Studios is well-known for their basic wardrobe pieces, so it makes sense that they would have the classic leather jacket look on lock. We love the way this off-centered jacket packs a punch of personality with its multiple buckles and zippers, but we love even more the way that it does not compromise softness or comfort at the expense of appearance.
This jacket comes with a high-end price tag, but it has the high-end materials to match. It is made of 100% genuine lambskin and comes with an interior lining of 100% viscose. Its unique off-center zip takes its inspiration from street style.
7. Airin G-1 Black and White Leather Jacket
There’s only one way to improve upon a traditional bomber: Add shearling fabric. The Jacket Maker’s Airin G-1 Bomber will have ready to strap into the cockpit, ready to fly over Europe on a midnight air-raid. It has a thick polyester-lined collar as well as ribbed cuffs and waist for a nice, snug fit that keeps the wind at bay.
The Airin is made with real sheepskin, so it’s soft but super durable, making it a great choice for almost any type of casual wear. The dual front pouch pockets are great for a phone and a pair of gloves, so if you’re wearing it on a motorcycle, you’ll have the storage you need.
8. Saturdays NYC Leather Harrington Jacket
If you’re unfamiliar with the brand Saturdays NYC, prepare to fall in love. As a laidback lifestyle brand, Saturdays NYC infuses its love for all things surfer culture in all of its fashion offerings. While primarily known for their loungewear, such as sweats and pullover sweaters, they also happen to make one of the best leather jackets on the market right now.
The leather Harrington jacket features a smooth design and has deep pockets for your convenience. It is made of 100% lambskin leather and features a lining made of polyester. Staying true to its brand’s carefree nature, this jacket features a more relaxed fit than many classic leather jackets.
9. Berluti Piped Venezia Leather Jacket
Unlike the other options we’ve included so far, Berluti is known less for being a fashion brand and more for being a leather maker. Since its inception in the late 19th century, the Paris-based manufacturer has been producing fine leather clothing items and accessories, from belts to bags to jackets.
Berluti’s piped Venezia leather jacket is the apex of luxury leather fashion. Made from a distinctive brown shade, this jacket line has been around since the 1980s – and it’s a style that certainly stands the test of time.
This jacket is made from 100% authentic patinated calfskin leather and features shoulder patches and a buttoned collar. For optimal breathability, the jacket even features ventilation eyelets.
10. Dean Black Leather Biker Jacket
Let’s be honest.. A traditional racing-style biker jacket is about as cool as it gets. With the high band-style collar and heavy-duty zippers on the front of The Jacket Maker’s Dean Leather Biker Jacket, you’re sure to get that badass look.
The Dean is made with 100% real cowhide leather, so it might be a little stiff at first, but it will break in and patina like none other. The Dean features three zippered pockets on the front as well as zippered cuffs, providing that authentic racing jacket-look without killing your bank account.
11. Kingsman Burnished Leather Jacket
Kingsman is a line of high-quality clothing pieces that exists as a collaboration between Mr. Matthew Vaughn, director of the film The King’s Man, and international online fashion retailer MR PORTER. The line features items that are inspired by classic military style and timeless sensibilities.
The burnished leather jacket from the Kingsman line is unique for its length as well as its appearance. It draws direct inspiration from an aviator jacket worn on-screen in The King’s Man, a period piece that takes place in the 1940s. The jacket is made out of sturdy cow leather and buttons made of buffalo horns. It also features two linings – one made of cotton, and one made of viscose.
12. AllSaints Milo Leather Biker Jacket
AllSaints is a British fashion brand from the United Kingdom. Since its founding in the 1990s, it has grown to an international presence that consists of more than 200 retail stores across Europe, North America, and Asia. The brand is mostly focused on fashion for women and men, though it also sells footwear and other accessories. It has primarily seen its popularity grow thanks to its popularity among a celebrity clientele.
AllSaints makes a number of leather jackets, but the Milo biker jacket is definitely one to write home about. This is a jacket that brings out the very best of two very different worlds – including a soft composition and sharp edges – since it is made of tender lamb leather and decorated to the nines with perfectly-placed zippers and buckles. It also has a distinctive slim fit.
13. Golden Bear Sherpa Jacket
San Francisco brand Golden Bear may have its roots in ship workers in the San Francisco Bay since the 1920s, but it’s evolved today to combine both utilitarianism and high-end style. Although not as recognized outside of its native northern California, to know the stylish jackets of Golden Bear is to love them.
The sherpa jacket, in particular, is exquisite. Like any Golden Bear clothing piece, it’s designed to be worn for life, and fortunately, it comes with a style that will be sure to stay in fashion for decades to come, with brown distressed leather and a notable shearling collar that can be detached.
14. Tom Ford Zip-up Leather Jacket
Tom Ford is well-known for their high-end scents and formal clothing, but they have a strong foot in the casual jacket sphere as well. Not that this zip-up leather jacket is something you would wear to a casual house party. Its sleek edges and formal design make it more than suitable for a fancy professional event or night out on the town.
True to its brand’s roots, no attention to detail was spared in the creation of this particular wardrobe piece. Its straightforward design features 100% authentic leather and a cotton and polyamide lining. It is truly meant to last for life. Made in Italy, this jacket has shallow pockets in the front and a zipper down the center.
Leather Jacket FAQs
While there are many different unique leather jacket configurations out there, there are four classic syles you should be most aware of. In no particular order, they are the leather bomber jacket (also called aviator jacket), the leather racer jacket (sometimes called moto), the trenchcoat, and the fencer. While bomber jackets and racer jackets tend to be more relaxed, the trenchcoat and the fencer are more dramatic.
If you care for your leather jacket correctly you should have a wardrobe piece that’ll last you a lifetime. Most leather jackets cannot be washed at home and must only be handled professionally. The first step to taking proper care of your jacket is to adhere to this rule.
You should also keep your leather jacket dry as often as possible and keep it away from extreme heat or cold air. If you are not going to be wearing your leather jacket for a period of time, such as during a warm season, then you’ll want to be sure that you are hanging it up correctly – this means out of direct sunlight and in a properly-ventilated area.
Determining how much to pay for a leather jacket is a very personal matter. For an authentic leather jacket, you will probably be paying, at a baseline, $500. However, this price can easily skyrocket from here, depending on the jacket’s materials and manufacturing process.
Some leather jackets can cost as much as $10,000! There is no right or wrong number – it’s instead about the brands you like and the style that you envision for yourself.
