Volkswagen’s Best SUVs for Off-Roading Adventures: Top Picks for 2024

Off-roading is a fun and exciting activity that allows you to explore the wilderness and connect with nature. Nonetheless, venturing off the beaten path also means that you have to navigate challenging terrain and obstacles, which some vehicles won’t be able to handle. If you frequently go off-roading, it’s a good idea to get one of the adventure-ready Volkswagen SUVs. These models boast rugged construction, punchy powertrains, and an array of off-road features that enable them to thrive on the toughest terrain. Let’s look at the best Volkswagen SUVs for off-roading.

Top Volkswagen SUVs for Off-Roading

Most Volkswagen SUVs are capable of handling dirt roads, gravel paths, and light off-road trails. However, if you plan to venture farther away from the pavement, you’ll be better off choosing one of the more off-road-ready Volkswagen vehicles, such as:

Volkswagen Atlas

Every 2024 Volkswagen Atlas model is a decent off-roader, thanks to their solid construction, potent engine, and available 4Motion all-wheel-drive system. For even better off-road capability, it’s recommended that you go for the Peak Edition trim, which offers an array of off-road upgrades.

The Atlas is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine that generates 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque and pairs with a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. With impressive low-end torque, this power plant helps the SUV negotiate rough terrain in a controlled manner and avoid crashing or getting stuck. When properly equipped, the Atlas can tow up to 5,000 pounds, allowing you to transport recreational vehicles or a small camper trailer on your outdoor adventures. If you plan to explore difficult trails, consider getting the optional 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, which provides better traction in challenging conditions.

Regardless of whether you choose a front- or all-wheel-drive model, the Volkswagen Atlas has a ground clearance of 6.3 inches. This gives it the ability to overcome off-road obstacles with ease while sustaining minimal damage. The Peak Edition is the best off-roader in the Atlas lineup, as it comes with upgrades such as standard all-wheel-drive, all-terrain tires, and underbody cladding. With a seating capacity of seven, the Atlas is an ideal adventure vehicle for drivers with a large family.

Volkswagen Tiguan

If you’re looking for a compact SUV with rugged capabilities, look no further than the 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan. This crossover gets its power from a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine rated at 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. The engine sends power to the front wheels or all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. It has a tow rating of 1,500 pounds, which is enough for pulling a couple of jet skis, ATVs, or dirt bikes.

The Tiguan feels lively both on and off the road, thanks in part to its low torque peak of 1,900 rpm. This enables it to get off the line quickly and tackle off-road trails with ease. Another feature that makes this Volkswagen SUV a great off-roader is its 7.6-inch ground clearance, which is impressive for a small crossover. The Tiguan doesn’t have an off-road trim, but you can expect it to handle almost any terrain you throw its way when it’s fitted with 4Motion all-wheel drive.

Off-Roading Features and Capabilities

While they aren’t specifically built for off-roading, Volkswagen SUVs have certain attributes and features that enable them to perform well where the pavement ends. These features include:

4Motion All-Wheel-Drive System

Under normal circumstances, the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system transmits power to the front wheels to save energy. However, when an impending loss of traction is detected, it activates the rear axle in a fraction of a second. That’s why it’s regarded as a permanently engaged four-wheel-drive system. Power is distributed to all four wheels even before wheelspin occurs, which virtually eliminates the possibility of a loss of traction.

In off-road situations, 4Motion all-wheel drive can help your Volkswagen SUV remain stable and tackle rough terrain with ease. It also comes with an Off-Road mode to further enhance traction on challenging terrain and hill-descent control to keep a safe speed while going down a steep slope.

Suspension and Clearance

Volkswagen SUVs are fitted with an independent strut front and multilink rear suspension system. This setup improves their handling on rough terrain, making them more agile and easier to maneuver. Furthermore, these Volkswagen models have a high ground clearance, which enables them to overcome pits and other uneven surfaces without damaging the underbody.

Preparing Your Volkswagen SUV for Off-Roading

No matter which Volkswagen SUV you choose, you can modify your ride to make your off-road adventures easier, more enjoyable, and safer. Properly maintaining your vehicle can also improve its off-road performance.

Essential Modifications

Some of the essential upgrades you can add to your Volkswagen SUV include all-terrain tires for improved traction, skid plates and steel bumpers for extra protection, off-road lights for better visibility, and a winch for getting out of sticky situations. If you’re going to bring a lot of stuff or bulky objects on your trips, getting a roof rack is a great way to increase your vehicle’s storage space.

Maintenance Tips

Due to the rugged and challenging nature of off-roading, your Volkswagen SUV requires more than just normal maintenance practices. If you want your vehicle to run at peak performance, you should bring it to a Volkswagen service center more often for oil and oil filter changes, fluid checks, brake fluid flushes, transmission fluid changes, and multi-point inspections. Also, make sure you give your SUV a good clean after every off-road session.

Get Behind the Wheel of an Adventure-Ready Volkswagen SUV Today

With a high ground clearance, a punchy engine, and 4Motion all-wheel drive, Volkswagen SUVs are ready for any adventure. If you’re looking for an off-road-capable SUV in Marion, Illinois, consider dropping by Volkswagen of Marion to check out our fantastic selection of rugged SUVs. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff can help you explore your options, take a test-drive, and choose a model that fits your driving needs and lifestyle. We can also provide you with expert tips on how to prepare your vehicle for off-road adventures. Browse our Volkswagen SUV inventory now and contact us to schedule a visit.

Volkswagen Atlas Peak Edition SEL (2024) by Charles is licensed with CC BY 2.0