The era of electric vehicles (EVs) has gone beyond city commuting. A new breed of electric SUVs is taking on rugged terrain, steep climbs, and off-road trails once reserved for gas-powered monsters. These machines combine cutting-edge electric powertrains with off-road capability, delivering silent, torque-rich performance with zero emissions. And the demand is growing fast.
Whether you’re an overlanding enthusiast, weekend adventurer, or just want a car that can take a beating on gravel while still turning heads on the highway, here are the top electric off-road SUVs making waves in 2025 and beyond.
Top electric off-road SUVs making waves in 2025
1. Rivian R1S: The Trailblazing Electric Adventurer
Rivian has firmly established itself as a leader in the electric adventure space, and the R1S proves it. With up to 835 horsepower, a 410-mile range, and quad-motor all-wheel drive (AWD), this SUV is more than just capable. It can climb 100% gradients, has 14.9 inches of ground clearance, and is equipped with serious underbody protection.
This vehicle isn’t just a luxury family hauler, it’s a rock crawler, mud blazer, and hill climber wrapped into one.
- Price: From $78,000
- Federal EV Tax Credit: Eligible for $3,750
You can check out Rivian’s specs directly here: Rivian Official Site
2. GMC Hummer EV SUV: The Electric Beast
Say what you want about weight, but the new Hummer EV SUV doesn’t pull any punches. With a monstrous 830 hp and 16 inches of ground clearance, it can wade through over 2 feet of water and tackle 60% inclines.
The Extreme Off-Road Package offers all-terrain tyres, underbody armour, and even front/rear underbody cameras. It’s big. It’s bold. And it weighs over 9,000 pounds.
- Price: Starts around $96,000
- Drawback: That massive weight may limit agility
3. Jeep Recon: Built for the Rubicon
Coming in 2024, the Jeep Recon is a true homage to the brand’s off-road legacy. This all-electric SUV brings removable doors, a Selec-Terrain system, and electronic axle locking.
Jeep wants this car to tackle the legendary Rubicon Trail right out of the factory. If they deliver on that promise, this might become the go-to electric SUV for hardcore trail junkies.
- Estimated Price: $60,000 – $75,000
- Expected Release: Late 2024
4. Mercedes-Benz G 580 EQG: Luxury Meets Dirt
The G-Wagon has gone electric. The Mercedes-Benz G 580 (EQG) delivers luxury, brawn, and brains in one off-road package. It includes a tank-turn “G-Turn” feature, quad-motor setup, and 9.8 inches of clearance.
This SUV is designed for those who want the premium experience but won’t settle for pavement alone.
- Price: ~$161,500
- Ideal for: Desert runs, alpine trails, and high-end explorers
5. Scout Traveler: The Affordable Rugged EV
Volkswagen is reviving the Scout brand with the upcoming 2026 Scout Traveler. It will be built on a dedicated off-road EV platform and aims to deliver solid capability at a more accessible price.
While specs are still under wraps, VW hints at a price range of $40,000 – $50,000, putting it in striking distance of mainstream buyers who want off-road readiness without luxury-brand costs.
- Expected Arrival: 2026
6. Munro MK_1: The Scottish Underdog
This body-on-frame electric utility vehicle from Scotland is anything but ordinary. The Munro MK_1 has an impressive 18.9 inches of ground clearance and a rugged chassis built for serious off-road work.
It’s not flashy. It’s functional. And that’s the point. It’s aimed at industries and off-grid users who need durability and simplicity over luxury.
- Range: 141 miles
- Price: Starts at $50,000
- U.S. Availability: Limited
More off-road electric options and deep dives: TopSpeed EV Off-Road SUV Guide
Why Choose an Electric SUV for Off-Roading?
1. Instant Torque
Electric motors deliver power immediately, making them perfect for crawling over rocks, climbing steep trails, and navigating mud or sand.
2. Low-End Control
Unlike traditional gas engines, EVs provide consistent torque at low speeds, which is ideal for technical trails where control matters more than speed.
3. Quiet Operation
The silent powertrain lets you connect with nature. You’ll hear the birds, water, or even the crunch of gravel, not your engine.
4. Eco Benefits
EVs reduce tailpipe emissions, helping preserve the very trails and forests you love to explore. It’s not just a trend; it’s a movement.
The Downsides? Let’s Be Real
- Range Anxiety: Charging stations are still rare in remote locations.
- Weight: Some models are extremely heavy, which can affect agility.
- Battery Impact: Mining and production still carry environmental costs.
Still, as infrastructure improves and innovation drives weight and cost reductions, these concerns will become less of a deal-breaker.
For Light Off-Roading: Budget-Friendly Options
If you just want a vehicle that can handle gravel roads or light trails, two EVs offer a good balance of comfort and capability:
- Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally ($60,000): AWD, raised suspension, rally-style build.
- Mercedes EQB (~$55,000): A compact SUV with decent clearance and AWD.
Great for national parks, unpaved roads, and weekend hikes.
Final Thoughts
Off-road electric SUVs aren’t a gimmick. They’re a legitimate category growing in capability, luxury, and variety. Whether you want premium performance (Mercedes EQG), American muscle (Hummer EV), or innovative practicality (Rivian R1S), there’s something here for you.
And if you’re waiting for a rugged but affordable option, keep your eyes on the Scout Traveler. The next few years will reshape how we think about off-road vehicles, and electricity is leading the charge.
Explore more about the EV off-road space: InsideEVs – EV vs Gas Off-Roading
