The Best Used Off-Road Vehicles for 2025: A Trail-Tested Guide from VAOffRoad.org

Whether you’re a seasoned trail warrior or just beginning your journey into Virginia’s off-road backcountry, finding the right 4×4 can be the difference between adventure and frustration. Thankfully, you don’t need a $60,000 truck to start exploring. At VAOffRoad.org, we’ve compiled the top used off-road vehicles in 2025, broken down by budget to help you get the best rig for your dollar.

These picks are based on real trail performance, reliability, aftermarket support, and how well they pair with Virginia’s diverse OHV routes. Each vehicle includes a reference to a trail in our system so you know exactly where it can shine.

We’re proud to be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and we rely on your support to maintain our trail databases, provide education, host guided rides, and fight for trail access. Consider joining our membership program and gain access to exclusive content, guided trips, mentorship, decals, and more.

🔝 Best Used Off-Road Vehicles: $25,000–$30,000

1. 2020+ Jeep Wrangler JL (Sport S / Rubicon)

Trail Match: Dominates the boulder fields of Potts Mountain Jeep Trail with lockers and articulation.
Why It’s Great: Jeep continues its legacy with solid axles, strong aftermarket, and unbeatable off-road chops.
Pros: Removable top, excellent aftermarket, proven drivetrain.
Cons: Harsh ride, high price for Rubicons.
Mods to Consider: 33”+ tires, winch-ready bumper, skid plates.

2. 2021+ Ford Bronco Base or Big Bend (2-Door or 4-Door)

Trail Match: Excellent on tight forested trails like Taskers Gap OHV System, thanks to Trail Turn Assist.
Why It’s Great: It’s Ford’s true answer to the Wrangler, modernized for today’s adventurers.
Pros: Easy to drive, tech-rich, off-road modes.
Cons: Hardtop quality issues on early models.
Mods to Consider: Mild lift, 35” AT tires, ditch lights.

3. 2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road

Trail Match: Excels on multi-day trips through Flagpole Knob and Meadow Knob, carrying gear and passengers comfortably.
Why It’s Great: Legendary Toyota reliability with off-road gears like Crawl Control and rear locker.
Pros: Reliable, roomy, retains value.
Cons: Poor fuel economy, aging infotainment.
Mods to Consider: Roof rack, suspension upgrade, drawer system.

4. 2019+ Chevrolet Colorado ZR2

Trail Match: Ideal for slick, rocky terrain on Peters Mill Run, especially with diesel torque.
Why It’s Great: Factory-equipped with front and rear lockers and Multimatic DSSV shocks.
Pros: Diesel option, great clearance.
Cons: Smaller cab, less aftermarket support.
Mods to Consider: Recovery gear, rock sliders, LED light bar.

5. 2021 Jeep Gladiator Sport S w/ Max Tow Package

Trail Match: Great for overland loops through Big Levels, where you can make use of its bed and camping gear.
Why It’s Great: Blends Wrangler agility with truck practicality.
Pros: Removable roof, great tow rating.
Cons: Long wheelbase, departure angle limits.
Mods to Consider: Rock rails, skids, winch bumper.

💰 Best Used Off-Roaders: $15,000–$25,000

1. 2014–2018 Toyota 4Runner Trail / TRD Off-Road

Trail Match: Comfortable over long runs on Flagpole/Skidmore Fork Trail System.
Why It’s Great: Known for its reliability and off-road package including Multi-Terrain Select.
Pros: Resale value, trail-ready stock.
Cons: Prices are still high, tech feels old.
Mods to Consider: Tires, sliders, recovery boards.

2. 2012–2016 Jeep Wrangler JK Rubicon

Trail Match: Handles tight and steep climbs at Devil’s Staircase with ease.
Why It’s Great: Rubicon trim adds sway bar disconnects, lockers, and Dana 44s.
Pros: Unlimited aftermarket, proven setup.
Cons: Poor fuel efficiency, potential trail abuse.
Mods to Consider: Fresh suspension, 35” tires, soft top.

3. 2017–2019 Subaru Outback (Wilderness or Lifted 2.5i)

Trail Match: Green-rated trails like Gauley Ridge are a breeze.
Why It’s Great: A solid gateway vehicle for those looking to camp and explore without rock crawling.
Pros: Comfortable ride, decent clearance.
Cons: No low-range, limited lift capability.
Mods to Consider: 2″ lift, A/T tires, skid plates.

4. 2016–2018 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X

Trail Match: Performs well on Taskers Gap with its compact size and rear locker.
Why It’s Great: A hidden gem with decent bones for a budget build.
Pros: Affordable, simple drivetrain.
Cons: Small interior, less known.
Mods to Consider: Winch bumper, roof tent, sliders.

5. 2015–2018 Chevy Tahoe Z71 / Suburban 4WD

Trail Match: Holds up well on smoother trails like Big Levels with basic mods.
Why It’s Great: Full-size comfort with 4×4 capability.
Pros: V8 power, family-ready.
Cons: Size makes tight trails tough.
Mods to Consider: Lift kit, tires, rear locker retrofit.

🚜 Budget Off-Roaders: $5,000–$15,000

1. 1996–2002 Toyota 4Runner (3rd Gen)

Trail Match: Can tackle almost everything from Flagpole to Gauley Ridge with the right setup.
Why It’s Great: Classic off-roader with timeless appeal.
Pros: Simple, reliable, real low-range.
Cons: Rust, aging interiors.
Mods to Consider: Suspension, snorkel, lockers.

2. 1997–2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ

Trail Match: A blast on short and technical trails like Taskers Gap Loop.
Why It’s Great: Last Wrangler with simple electronics and a true off-road soul.
Pros: Short wheelbase, massive community.
Cons: Not great for daily driving.
Mods to Consider: 2-4″ lift, tires, bumpers.

3. 2000–2006 Nissan Xterra 4WD

Trail Match: Eats up terrain on Peters Mill Run and similar intermediate trails.
Why It’s Great: Strong chassis, cheap to own.
Pros: Affordable, roof rack ready.
Cons: Underpowered.
Mods to Consider: Rock sliders, suspension, AT tires.

4. 2003–2009 Lexus GX470

Trail Match: Flagpole Knob is no problem with a basic lift and armor.
Why It’s Great: A luxury ride on a Land Cruiser frame.
Pros: V8 power, plush interior.
Cons: Stock air suspension can fail.
Mods to Consider: Coil conversion, tires, bumpers.

5. 2002–2008 Ford Explorer 4×4 (with Low Range)

Trail Match: A fun and cheap way to explore Big Levels Trail.
Why It’s Great: Often overlooked, but capable with smart upgrades.
Pros: Common and cheap.
Cons: Limited off-road aftermarket.
Mods to Consider: Skid plates, mild lift, tow points.

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