The Most Rugged-Looking SUVs of 2023

Mainstream SUVs continue to evolve into a class of vehicles that blur the lines between comfort, convenience, and ruggedness. You can get a luxury SUV with all the bells and whistles that you expect in an upscale ride, but in the same class, you can also get a brawny vehicle designed to tackle any type of rough terrain. Some SUVs have more rugged features than others. Here’s a look at some of the most rugged 2023 models.

These SUVs Check All the Adventure-Loving Boxes

Once upon a time, SUVs were the go-to for drivers who prioritized off-road travel over everyday convenience. As SUVs became more mainstream, drivers wanted versatility and cargo space with a sleeker profile and more sedan-like ride. These five SUVs deliver the comfort and convenience wanted in a daily driver with the rugged looks and off-road chops adventure seekers demand.

Chevrolet Blazer

The Chevrolet Blazer is a mid-size SUV that stands out with its aggressive but stylish design. The large front grille and LED headlights give it its aggressive stance, and if you add the Midnight Edition Package, it comes with black trim and black wheels. Under the hood, the Blazer offers two engine options, a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder with 228 horsepower or a 3.6-liter V-6 with 308 horsepower.

Ford Bronco Raptor

The wide stance, large wheels, and fender flares are just the beginning when it comes to the rugged look of the Ford Bronco Raptor. Power for this beast comes from a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 gas engine that churns out 418 horsepower that sends power to all four of the 37-inch
BFGoodrich all-terrain tires. The Raptor’s removable hard top and removable doors, along with the large front grille with black FORD lettering, all just add to the aggressive look.

Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro

The Toyota 4Runner is a rugged SUV no matter what model you have, but the TRD Pro has extra exterior features and trim elements that put it at another level. It has 17-inch black alloy wheels, all-terrain tires, and the bold TRD-style TOYOTA grille. It also has TRD-stamped skid plates and the TRD-specific roof rack for hauling all your gear to your off-road adventures, whether they take you to the mountains, the trails, or the beach.

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon

You really can’t beat the Wrangler Rubicon when it comes to off-road and rugged. This SUV is a legend not only for its capabilities but for its iconic look. Starting from the bottom up, the Rubicon has 17-inch wheels with 35-inch all-terrain tires, removable doors, and the option for a Sunrider hardtop that easily opens up the top for fresh air when you need it. When you need protection from the elements, it’s just as easy to close up.

GMC Yukon AT4

Looking for the perfect combination of rugged and luxurious? The GMC Yukon AT4 is the best of both worlds. It all starts with the dark grey wheels and Goodyear all-terrain tires, followed by the two horizontal red front tow hooks and front skid plate. The AT4 has a different front fascia than the rest of the lineup, with a design that gives it an approach angle of almost 32 degrees. Inside, the AT4 contrasts the rugged exterior with upscale features, including a heated steering wheel, driver’s seat memory settings, and a power-folding third-row seat.