SUVs have dominated most parts of the world, including Kenya. While most buy SUVs for family use or even their luxury features, some consider their vehicles as tools. Today, most vehicles can go down a beaten path, however, not all can tackle challenging terrains while still being great highway cruisers. Some SUVs boast better ground clearance and offroad-centric features, making them perfect for true offroad enthusiasts.
Below we’ve compiled the top off-road capable SUVs in Kenya, highlighting the different features that make them unique and why you should consider one. From the small and lightweight Suzuki Jimny to the full-size behemoths like the Nissan Patrol and Toyota Land Cruiser.
10. Suzuki Jimny
The Suzuki Jimny is a small, lightweight off-road SUV ideal for tackling tough terrain and taking trips to the supermarket. Unlike most off-road capable SUVs in Kenya, the Jimny’s small size makes it incredibly manoeuvrable on challenging terrain and in tight spaces. Despite its small nature, the Jimny boasts an impressive ground clearance of 210 mm and approach, departure and breakover angles of 37, 49 and 28 degrees, respectively. This enables drivers to easily navigate over logs, rocks and many more obstacles without scraping its underbelly.
Its small size means that the Jimny enjoys a shorter wheelbase than most of its off-road capable rivals. This guarantees better articulation and ensures that the wheels can flex independently to maintain traction on uneven surfaces. Powering this small body-on-frame SUV is a 1.5-litre engine, sending power to the wheels through a 4WD system with a low-range transfer gear.
9. Toyota FJ Cruiser
Like most off-road capable SUVs on this list, the Toyota FJ Cruiser is a body-on-frame champion and a favourite for most adventurous enthusiasts. Released in 2006, the FJ Cruiser used the chassis of the Land Cruiser Prado but used the styling of predecessors like the FJ40. Among the FJ40-esque features included the white rooftop, a near-vertical windshield, and the front-end design. Since its introduction, all Japanese FJ Cruiser models were only available with a 4WD configuration and a 4.0 litre V6 (1GR-FE) engine.
Unfortunately, Toyota stopped producing the Japanese variants in 2018. Despite being discontinued, the FJ Cruiser is still a capable offroad SUV thanks to its 240 mm ground clearance, 34-degree approach angle, 27.4-degree breakover angle and 30-degree departure angle. These qualities help the FJ Cruiser navigate through tough terrain with ease. In addition to all Japanese models featuring a 4WD system, Toyota also equipped the FJ Cruiser with a locking rear differential, helping improve traction on loose surfaces.
8. Mitsubishi Pajero
The Pajero has been the brand’s ultimate performance SUV rivaling models like the Nissan Patrol and Toyota Land Cruiser. While there are no newer versions of the Pajero, it’s still among the most off-road capable SUVs in Kenya. Powering the Pajero on Kenyan roads are three engine options: a 2.8-litre diesel, a 3.2-litre diesel and a 3.0-litre petrol. While the petrol engine is more powerful, the 3.2-litre diesel provides 162 hp and 373 Nm of torque, making it the best alternative for cross-country adventures.
In addition, this engine is available with a five-speed automatic transmission with sports mode. The other two powertrains, the 2.8-litre diesel and 3.0-litre petrol, feature a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic, respectively.
7. Isuzu MU-X
The Isuzu MU-X is a D-MAX-based SUV. It boasts a body-on-frame construction, helping make it a rough-road running champion. The MU-X is a highly capable SUV, rivalling other pickup truck-based models like the Toyota Fortuner. Like the D-MAX, the MU-X gets a 3.0-litre 4JJ3 diesel engine, producing 188 hp at 3,600 rpm and 450 Nm of torque from 1,600 to 2,600 rpm. Isuzu pairs this engine with a six-speed automatic transmission, powering the 4WD shift-on-the-fly system.
With this powertrain, the MU-X gets impressive capabilities like a maximum towing capacity of up to 3.5 tonnes. For off-road enthusiasts, the MU-X gets a host of features, including steel underbody protection and Isuzu’s 4X4 terrain command system. The system makes it easier to switch between the 2H, 4H and 4L drive modes at the push of a button. This, coupled with the rear differential lock helps provide enough traction and control.
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6. Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler, a true offroad icon, has been a staple in the 4X4 community for decades. Its legendary off-road capability is backed by a robust design and advanced features. One of the key factors contributing to its offroad prowess is its high-tensile steel safety frame. This rigid cage enhances the Wrangler’s structural integrity and protection during a collision. In addition to its rugged exterior and convertible nature, the Wrangler doesn’t compromise on safety. It comes equipped with various advanced safety features, including side curtain airbags.
To conquer any terrain, the 2025 Unlimited Wrangler models are fitted with a set of aggressive mud terrain tyres for superior traction and grip. Its electronically controlled front sway bar disconnect system allows for increased articulation while the full-time 4X4 system and electronic locking differential deliver better traction and control. The Wrangler’s combination of iconic design, advanced technology and rugged durability make it one of the top off-road capable SUVs in Kenya.
5. INEOS Grenadier
The INEOS Grenadier is a modern marvel of off-road engineering. Since its introduction in 2020, the Grenadier has swiftly captured the hearts of adventure enthusiasts all over the world. This rugged SUV pays homage to classic off-roaders while incorporating cutting-edge technology. At the core of its off-road prowess lies its robust ladder-frame chassis, designed to withstand the harshest terrains. This foundation, coupled with a generous ground clearance enhances its approach, breakover and departure angles, allowing the Grenadier to conquer obstacles with ease.
INEOS also equips this SUV with a permanent four-wheel drive system, a high and low-range transfer case and locking differentials. Under the hood, the Grenadier boasts a potent BMW-sourced engine, mated to a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination delivers ample torque and smooth power delivery, making the Grenadier ideal for both off-road expeditions and on-road cruising.
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4. Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
Toyota’s Land Cruiser Prado has long been among the best SUVs for sale in Kenya. Its reputation for reliability, durability and exceptional offroad capability has solidified its status as a go-to choice for adventurers and those who need an SUV that can handle rough terrain. Recently redesigned in 2023, the Land Cruiser Prado retains the strength and durability of its predecessors. It uses the same GA-F platform as the larger 300 Series SUV, helping boost its handling and off-road performance.
In addition to its durability, the Land Cruiser Prado has an impressive set of off-road capable features. First, the Prado gets electric power steering, helping improve manoeuvrability at low speeds. Toyota also equips it with a switch-operated front stabilizer which delivers ride comfort and driving performance when off-roading. Additional offroad features include Toyota’s Multi-Terrain Select system which features six modes. The Prado also gets full-time 4WD and a Torsen limited-slip differential (LSD) for even better driving stability.
3. Nissan Patrol
All new for the 2025 model year, the Nissan Patrol still remains a revered top-tier off-road SUV. This full-size SUV has earned its reputation through decades of proven performance. For its seventh generation, the Patrol introduces a selection of innovative features, including a 4WD transfer mode interlock system, a first for Nissan. This technology allows drivers to effortlessly switch between various drive modes, adapting to diverse terrains with ease. Whether it’s the challenging rocky trails or the sandy dunes of Chalbi Desert, the Patrol’s intelligent system ensures optimal control and traction.
For the 2025 model year, Nissan eliminates the mighty V8 engine in favour of two V6 engines: a 3.8-litre V6 with 316 hp and 386 Nm of torque and a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 with 425 hp and 700 Nm of torque. These engines pair with a nine-speed automatic transmission, propelling the Patrol effortlessly through the toughest conditions. To further enhance its offroad versatility, the Patrol gets adaptive air suspension, allowing for adjustable ride height, especially when driving offroad.
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2. Toyota Land Cruiser
The Toyota Land Cruiser, a name synonymous with off-road capability, continues to reign supreme in Kenya’s terrains. The 2021 redesign elevated this iconic SUV to new heights, making it one of the best SUVs for sale in Kenya. Built on the TNGA-F platform, the Land Cruiser 300 Series offers a unique balance of on-road comfort and off-road prowess. This platform, shared with the Land Cruiser Prado, ensures a smoother ride despite the traditional body-on-frame construction.
Under the hood, the Land Cruiser boasts powerful and efficient V6 engines, replacing the previous V8s. The twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine delivers impressive performance, while the 3.3-litre V6 diesel engine offers exceptional fuel efficiency and torque. To conquer challenging off-road conditions, the Land Cruiser has a sophisticated suspension system that optimises steering stability and off-road performance. The rear Torsen LSD, hydraulic power steering and electronic control brake work in tandem to enhance manoeuvrability and traction, ensuring the Land Cruiser can tackle even the most demanding terrains.
1. Mercedes-Benz G Class
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, often referred to as the G-Wagen is a testament to engineering excellence and a true icon in the realm of off-road capable SUVs in Kenya. Introduced in 1979, this legendary vehicle has captivated enthusiasts with its unparalleled ruggedness and luxurious amenities. At the heart of the G-Class’s off-road prowess lies its robust ladder-frame chassis, providing exceptional rigidity and strength. This foundation, coupled with permanent all-wheel drive, ensures optimal traction on diverse terrains, from the sandy dunes of the coast to the muddy trails of the highlands.
The three locking differentials further enhance off-road capabilities, allowing the G-Class to conquer challenging obstacles with ease. The G-Class’s design is a masterpiece of form and function. High ground clearance, short overhangs, and generous approach and departure angles enable it to navigate through rocky terrain, ford deep water crossings, and scale steep inclines. The low-range gear reduction, available in many models, amplifies the G-Class’s off-road performance, allowing it to tackle challenging terrain with confidence.
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