Over rocks, other hard places

Written By Unknown on Sabtu, 10 November 2012 | 18.38

'Strong," "tough," "enduring" — just a handful of terms that describe those who serve our country as members of the armed forces.

These characteristics also apply to some of the world's most rugged and capable off-road sports utility vehicles and pickup trucks.

And while off-road dynamos aren't known for their fuel economy, it's their rough image and presence on our nation's streets and highways that epitomize the definition of "powerful."

"They certainly exude strength. They exude a lot of attitude. That's part of their appeal," said Scott Oldham, editor-in-chief of Edmunds.com. "Arnold Schwarzenegger didn't drive a Hummer because it got good gas mileage. The image attached is a big selling point. It's the same mindset when a guy goes out and buys a Corvette or sports car."

Certain large-scale models, such as Chevy Silverado and Ford F-Series pickups, have been the pride of the auto industry for decades (on Monday we'll highlight the industry's veteran models), while others rev up within a smaller market niche.

This Veterans Day we salute all who have served, regardless of their rank and military branch. Be prepared to do the same for the following models — our top 10 greatest tough and rugged vehicles for 2013.

10. Nissan Xterra

In the age of SUVs based on sedans, the Xterra has a truck mindset, a robust suspension and a drivetrain perfect for off-road adventure. Yet the model tends to put performance and rugged capabilities over comfort and fuel economy. For those ready for fun in the wilderness, this is "a different beast" to get behind the wheel of, said Oldham, adding: "If you want comfort and economy, you buy a Mazda C-X5. If you want to go off-road and put a mountain bike wherever you need it to be, you buy an Xterra."

(Max Tow: 5,000 lbs; Max MPG: 18; MSRP: $30,592)

9. Toyota 4Runner

This is the first of three Toyota offerings on this list. A well-known, capable, mid-sized SUV for decades, the five-door 4Runner remains one of the Top 10 factory built, off-road machines still out there, yet a recently designed model is "not quite as hard-core as its predecessors, which is why it's No. 9," Oldham said.

(Max Tow: 5,000 lbs; Max MPG: 19; MSRP: $38,824)

8. Jeep Grand Cherokee

As rugged and off-road capable as ever, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is a "best of both worlds vehicle" that offers smooth on-road capability and the "high levels of comfort expected at its price point," Oldham said. Leather-lined interiors, for example, contribute to the mid-sized SUV's luxurious feel. "It doesn't feel very much like a truck until you ask it to do something only a truck can do," Oldham added.

(Max Tow: 7,400 lbs; Max MPG: 19; MSRP: $38,258)

7. Chevrolet Silverado


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