The off-road SUV segment is experiencing a renaissance, with manufacturers bringing back legendary nameplates and introducing entirely new electric capabilities. While the buzz for the last few years has been around hybrids and EVs, there is a quiet yet growing trend toward off-road SUVs, and the upcoming models promise to redefine adventure driving.
Electric Off-Road Revolution
Rivian R2 Compact Electric SUV
The Rivian R2 is set to be an affordable compact 5-seat electric SUV with legit off-road chops, featuring impressive ground clearance – 9.8 inches – quick acceleration, and terrific range, in this case, more than 300 miles. Expected to arrive in 2026, this model targets adventure enthusiasts seeking electric capability without sacrificing off-road performance.
Scout Traveler
Scout announced the production Terra pickup truck and Traveler SUV. Both feature boxy styling and are designed for rugged off-road capability. The Traveler SUV offers up to 350 miles of electric range with an optional range extender expanding that to 500 miles.
Traditional Powertrains Enhanced
2026 Honda Passport TrailSport
The 2026 Honda Passport features 8.3 inches of ground clearance with short bumper overhangs and high approach angles at 23 degrees for added vehicle protection during spirited, off-road moments. Honda has completely redesigned the Passport to be their most capable off-road SUV ever.
New Jeep Compass
Jeep revealed an all-new Jeep Compass, which would be sold globally. The new Compass is on a new platform and is significantly larger than the model that ended its run in 2025, allowing for enhanced passenger and cargo space while maintaining Jeep’s legendary off-road DNA.
Luxury Off-Road Contenders
Land Rover Defender Sport
Like the Bronco Sport is to the Bronco, the Defender Sport is said to be based on a different platform, smaller than the Defender, and still highly capable off-road. Expected as an EV arriving in late 2026, it will compete directly with traditional off-road favorites.
Mercedes-Benz Compact G-Class
Mercedes-Benz announced a smaller version of the venerable G-Class. The downsized G-Class is expected to use a 4-motor EV system and a large battery, maintaining the G-Class’s iconic boxy design and ladder frame construction.
Performance Off-Roaders
Rivian R3X
The Rivian R3X was a surprise announcement unveiled at the same time as the R2. Based on the increased ground clearance and wider stance, the R3X has the potential to be a high-speed off-road racer. Expected in early 2027, this model targets performance-oriented off-road enthusiasts.
Potential Nissan Xterra Revival
Nissan Americas Chairman Christian Meunier recently told industry publication Automotive News, “If I could bring a car tomorrow, that would be Xterra. We’re working on it. We’ll find a way.” Enthusiasts hope for a Frontier-based SUV with hybrid powertrain options.
2025 Toyota Land Cruiser
The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser is designed with rugged terrain in mind with full-time 4WD, skid plates, crawl control, and a hybrid powertrain that produces 326 hp. Starting around $55,000, this legendary nameplate returns with modern efficiency and advanced NHTSA safety standards.
| Model | Launch Year | Starting Price | Key Features | Range/MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rivian R2 | 2026 | ~$45,000 | 9.8″ ground clearance, electric | 300+ miles |
| Scout Traveler | 2026 | ~$60,000 | Boxy design, range extender | 350-500 miles |
| Honda Passport | 2026 | ~$40,000 | 8.3″ clearance, 23° approach | 28 MPG (est.) |
| Toyota Land Cruiser | 2025 | ~$55,000 | Hybrid, crawl control | 28 MPG combined |
| Jeep Compass | 2026 | TBA | Larger platform, global model | TBA |
These upcoming models demonstrate how manufacturers are balancing traditional off-road capability with modern efficiency requirements. NHTSA’s Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards continue evolving to ensure these new off-roaders meet rigorous safety regulations while maintaining their adventure-ready character.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will electric off-road SUVs become mainstream? A: Most electric off-road SUVs launch between 2026-2027, with Rivian and Scout leading the charge.
Q: Will traditional gas-powered off-road SUVs disappear? A: No, manufacturers like Toyota and Honda continue developing hybrid and traditional powertrains alongside electric options.
Q: Which upcoming off-road SUV offers the best value? A: The Honda Passport and Toyota Land Cruiser provide strong capability-to-price ratios around $40,000-$55,000.
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