Coolest Off-Road Tech

Off-roading can throw a variety of challenging conditions at drivers, from mud and snow to sand and rocks. Terrain Management Systems (TMS) help vehicles adapt to these conditions at the push of a button, automatically adjusting settings like throttle response, traction control, and suspension to optimize performance for the specific terrain.

Most modern off-road vehicles are equipped with some form of terrain management, which makes off-roading accessible even for less experienced drivers by eliminating the guesswork involved in managing difficult conditions.

Here are some of the best Terrain Management Systems available today:

• Ford’s GOAT (Goes Over Any Terrain): Found in the Ford Bronco, this system offers several pre-set modes such as Sand, Mud/Ruts, Rock Crawl, and Baja. Each mode adjusts the throttle sensitivity, 4WD system, and suspension, giving the Bronco the ability to tackle a wide range of terrains with ease.

• Jeep Selec-Terrain®: Available in the Jeep Wrangler and Grand Cherokee, this system features Auto, Snow, Sand, Mud, and Rock modes. It automatically adjusts power distribution between the front and rear axles, optimizing grip and stability depending on the conditions. The Rock mode, in particular, shines for hardcore off-roaders looking to navigate rugged trails.

• Land Rover Terrain Response 2: Land Rover’s luxury off-road vehicles, like the Defender and Range Rover, offer Terrain Response 2, which takes terrain management to another level by automatically selecting the best driving mode based on the conditions. It also allows drivers to manually choose between settings like Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud/Ruts, Sand, and Rock Crawl for complete control.

• Toyota Multi-Terrain Select: Found in the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro and 4Runner, this system offers a simple dial interface to select modes like Mud, Sand, Rock, and Loose Rock. The system adjusts engine throttle, traction control, and braking to keep the vehicle stable and responsive across a variety of surfaces. Paired with Toyota’s Crawl Control, it makes even the toughest trails manageable.

These Terrain Management Systems make off-roading more accessible. They take the guesswork out of tough terrain and ensure that vehicles can handle whatever nature throws at them. With a simple turn of a dial or push of a button, drivers can focus on the adventure while the vehicle handles the complexities of the trail.

Trail Control and Hill Descent Control

Both Trail Control and Hill Descent Control are designed to make off-roading easier by automating certain aspects of vehicle control, allowing the driver to focus on steering.

Trail Control, found in vehicles like the Ford Bronco and Toyota Tacoma, acts like low-speed cruise control for rough terrain. It automatically manages throttle and braking, maintaining a steady speed—typically between 1 to 20 mph—while you navigate obstacles, tight trails, or steep climbs. The driver simply sets the desired speed, and the system adjusts engine power and braking to keep the vehicle moving safely and smoothly. This system is ideal for situations like rock crawling or deep sand where precise throttle control is crucial.

Hill Descent Control, available in models like the Jeep Wrangler and Land Rover Defender, provides assistance when descending steep, slippery slopes. The system uses the vehicle's brakes to maintain a slow, controlled speed, typically between 3 to 5 mph, so drivers don’t need to manually apply the brakes. This prevents wheels from locking and ensures that the vehicle maintains traction and stability. All the driver has to do is steer, while the system takes care of speed and braking.

These features are becoming common in many off-road vehicles, ensuring that even novice off-roaders can confidently tackle difficult terrain with ease.

Adaptive Suspension Systems

Adaptive suspension systems use sensors to continuously monitor the vehicle’s speed, terrain, and driving conditions. 

Based on this data, computers automatically adjust the stiffness or softness of the shocks or suspension to optimize performance. For example, when the system detects rough, uneven terrain, it softens the suspension to absorb bumps and provide a smoother ride. Conversely, when driving at higher speeds or on more stable surfaces, it stiffens the suspension for improved stability and control. 

This dynamic response allows the vehicle to maintain comfort and handling across a wide range of off-road conditions without manual intervention from the driver.

Here are some of the best systems on the market right now: 

Raptor’s Adaptive Shock System

Ford’s Raptor is known for its off-road prowess, and a big part of that is its Fox Live Valve shocks. These advanced shocks adjust damping rates in real-time based on the terrain, ensuring a comfortable and controlled ride no matter the conditions.

Ford HOSS

The High-Performance Off-Road Stability Suspension (HOSS) system in the Ford Bronco is engineered for off-road driving, balancing ruggedness and comfort. It adjusts in real-time to handle rough terrain, ensuring a smooth ride even in challenging conditions.

Toyota KDSS (Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System)

Found in the Toyota Land Cruiser and 4Runner, KDSS is another great example of an adaptive off-road system. It automatically adjusts the front and rear stabilizers based on the terrain, enhancing wheel articulation for better off-road performance.

Advanced Camera Systems

360-degree Off-Road Camera Systems

When you’re off-roading, visibility is everything. That’s where 360-degree camera systems come in handy, giving you a bird’s-eye view of your vehicle’s surroundings. These systems help drivers navigate tight trails, avoid obstacles, and make precise maneuvers without second-guessing where your wheels are.

• Ford Bronco: Equipped with an advanced 360-degree camera, the Bronco makes it easy to tackle tricky trails. You can switch between different views to get a full picture of what’s around you.

• Jeep Wrangler: The Wrangler’s available Forward-Facing TrailCam is perfect for spotting obstacles that are too low for your windshield to catch. It’s like having a trail guide built right into your dash.

• Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro: The Tacoma takes it up a notch with its Multi-Terrain Monitor, allowing you to check your surroundings and see where your wheels are in real time, making boulder crawling or tight cornering a breeze.

• Land Rover Defender: Known for its off-road prowess, the Defender’s ClearSight Ground View system lets you "see through" the hood, helping you navigate rough terrain with confidence.

OnX and In-Dash Off-Road Navigation Tech

Modern off-roaders are equipped with powerful tools, such as the OnX Off-Road GPS app and in-dash navigation systems, to explore trails with confidence. 

OnX offers detailed trail maps, offline GPS, and terrain data, enabling users to mark waypoints, track routes, and share trails. This app excels in remote areas where traditional GPS struggles. In-dash systems, like Jeep’s Uconnect Off-Road Pages and Ford’s SYNC 4 Off-Road Navigation, provide real-time diagnostics, topographical maps, and off-road data directly on the vehicle’s display, helping drivers navigate tricky terrains and stay informed of vehicle performance. 

These systems work seamlessly, providing instant feedback, guiding off-roaders through challenging environments with ease.

Hybrid Systems and In-Bed Power Options

Off-road vehicles are increasingly adopting hybrid systems for improved power and efficiency. 

The Ford F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid leads the way, combining a twin-turbocharged V6 engine with an electric motor, offering up to 430 horsepower and a whopping 570 lb-ft of torque. This extra power translates into better towing capacity and off-road performance, all while reducing fuel consumption. Hybrid systems also allow for longer trips into remote areas, as the electric motor boosts fuel efficiency, especially in stop-and-go off-road conditions.

Another key advantage of hybrids like the F-150 and Toyota Tundra Hybrid is their in-bed power options. 

Ford’s Pro Power Onboard system, for example, offers up to 7.2 kW of power, turning your truck into a mobile generator. This is perfect for running tools, air compressors, or camping gear when you're far from civilization. Whether you're setting up a remote campsite, running power tools on-site, or inflating tires after off-roading, these power outlets make off-road trucks more versatile than ever. The Toyota Tundra Hybrid offers a similar feature with its 400-watt bed outlet, ensuring that adventure enthusiasts have everything they need to stay powered up on the go.

With these systems, off-roaders can enjoy the benefits of hybrid technology—more power and better efficiency—while also utilizing their vehicle’s power for practical needs out in the wild.

Get Out There! 

With advancements in off-road technology, modern vehicles offer more control, comfort, and versatility than ever before. 

From adaptive suspensions and terrain management systems to hybrid power and innovative seating, these features make tackling tough trails easier for all types of off-road enthusiasts.