Best Crossovers SUVs for Adventurous Drivers

Most people buy a crossover SUV for the sole purpose of hauling their family around. However, some models can also double as a capable off-road machine. If you happen to be an adventurous driver who prefers an outdoor lifestyle, be sure to take a look at these three versatile crossovers.

2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk

Jeep has always held a reputation for developing adventurous SUVs. The 2018 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk is no exception. While the Cherokee Trailhawk handles like a sedan on the street, it transforms into a rugged beast when traveling off the beaten path. A MSRP of $24,395 also makes the new Cherokee Trailhawk a great deal.

Your family will love this crossover’s class-leading rear-seat legroom. While the new Cherokee Trailhawk can accommodate up to five people, you may need to pack lightly on road trips. There is not a surplus of cargo space in the back.

The base power source is a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine. It pushes out 184 horsepower while returning up to 25 mpg on the highway. If you need a bit more muscle, opt for the potent V6 engine. It pumps out a healthy 271 horsepower and 239 pound-feet of torque. The additional power increases the Cherokee’s towing capacity to a solid 4,500 pounds. To ensure that the Cherokee Trailhawk can conquer rough landscapes, Jeep equipped it with an aggressive Active Drive II 4WD system and extra undercarriage protection. The crossover’s Selec-Terrain system will also help you to maintain superior grip in low-traction environments.

2018 Volvo XC60

The 2018 Volvo XC60 is a remarkably safe and comfortable family vehicle that has no trouble handling a muddy trail. Elegant styling makes the all-new XC60 even more appealing. It also offers a number of high-tech goodies, including Volvo’s tablet-like Sensus infotainment system and advanced cruise control. Prices start at a $42,495, which is excellent for such a well-engineered SUV.

You will love the redesigned Volvo XC60’s effortless performance on the road. Even the base turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers on-demand power. It pushes out a satisfying 250 horsepower. Implementing the use of a turbocharger and a supercharger, the optional engine is especially potent. Volvo tuned it to develop a beefy 316 horsepower. A blistering 0-60 time of 5.6 seconds enables you to have truly fun driving experience. Fuel economy is also quite impressive. While the base engine returns a combined 24 mpg, the optional engine delivers a combined 23 mpg.

When you decide to venture off the pavement, the XC60 will inspire you with a great deal of confidence. Upon activating the crossover’s Off-Road mode, its suspension raises to provide an additional 1.6 inches of ground clearance. Meanwhile, a sophisticated AWD system helps you to easily churn through snow and mud. Although the XC60 is a skilled off-road vehicle, it would benefit from a tougher set of all-terrain tires.

2018 Subaru Forester

Don’t be fooled by the 2018 Subaru Forester’s classy appearance. It is a true wolf in sheep’s clothing. Aside from being able to handle a serious off-road adventure, the Forester excels as a family vehicle. The combination of a five-star safety rating and a spacious interior makes it a highly recommended family vehicle. While the base Forster will cost you around $23,700, the top-of-the-line 2.0XT Touring model demands $37,000.

Subaru gives you two four-cylinder engines to choose from. The base 170-horsepower engine will return the best fuel economy. When paired with a CVT transmission, you can anticipate getting an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in town and 32 mpg on the highway. If you crave more thrills, the available turbocharged engine will fill your heart with joy. It produces an exciting 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. A quick 0-60 time of 6.3 seconds proves this small crossover can really move out in hurry. Luckily, turbocharged models can still return up to 27 mpg on the open road. The Forester’s only downfall is its extremely low towing capacity.

The Forester is perfect for the drivers who love to explore nature. With around 8.7 inches of ground clearance underneath the Forester, you can confidently topple most obstacles in your path. Subaru’s excellent Symmetrical AWD system comes standard. You can also take advantage of the available X-Mode feature. Simply pressing the X-Mode button immediately gives you the maximum traction on slippery surfaces. Hill descent control is offered as well.

VanderWolf Images / Shutterstock.com

SHARE ON

Advertisement

Cultured Palate: Dishes from Iran

Iranian cuisine uses a myriad of spices, dried and fresh fruits, herbs, and nuts to flavor dishes. These ingredients turn even the simplest meal of rice and stewed meat into a sensory explosion.

Around the World in Holiday Baking

Every December, millions of pounds of butter, sugar, and flour contribute to the creation of spectacular treats for holiday celebrations. Even if you’re not ordinarily a baker, many people venture into the kitchen before the holidays to make sure that they’ve got plenty of treats to offer to family and friends.

The Most Unusual McDonald’s Menu Items from Around the World

If you’re a fast-food connoisseur, chances are you’re already familiar with the McDonald’s menu that’s typical in North America. They bring in new choices fairly frequently. However, most people stick with their usual order of Big Macs, Quarter Pounders, fries, McFlurries, and Apple Pies. It’s familiar food, and the bulk of the menu is essentially…