Blog

Which is the best SUV for desert driving? Though debatable, any desert explorer in the UAE will almost certainly have the same curiosity when you ask them this question. The Toyota Land Cruiser is frequently considered by the off-road enthusiast community as the best SUV for desert driving. The Land Cruiser is well-known for its remarkable toughness, strong engine, and sophisticated 4WD capabilities, which enable it to easily navigate hard terrain. It is a favourite among off-road enthusiasts in the UAE due to its strong suspension system and high ground clearance.

Which Is the Best SUV in UAE for Driving Over a Desert?

The Jeep Wrangler is a great option for crossing the desert. Its strong construction, superior 4WD system, and high ground clearance make it the perfect vehicle to manage the unpredictable desert landscape. The Wrangler's off-road ability and adaptability ensure a fun and safe experience when crossing the desert.

 Crucial Features for Desert Driving

In order to protect your safety while driving in the desert, there are a few crucial elements to consider when choosing an SUV, such as a desert drive vehicle. These consist of:

• Durability 

The SUV needs to be able to manage challenging circumstances, such as intense heat and rough terrain.

• 4WD Capability

Having a strong 4WD system is important for sand and uneven surfaces.

• Ground Clearance

A car with high ground clearance won't get stuck in the sand.

• Cooling System 

Effective cooling mechanisms are in place to keep engines from overheating during hot weather.

• Tire Quality

On sand, all-terrain tyres provide superior stability and grip.

10 Best SUV for Desert Driving and Dune Bashing in the UAE

1. Nissan Patrol

Because of its reliability and off-road prowess, the Nissan Patrol is unquestionably the best in the UAE. It has a powerful 4WD system, a sophisticated Hydraulic Body Motion Control (HBMC), and a 5.6 L V8 engine. High ground clearance, a solid ladder frame chassis, and an off-road monitor are features of the Patrol. This one is equipped with Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control for good handling on slopes.

Technical Details

• Engine: 5.6L V8 (2024 model)

• Power: 400 hp

• Torque: 560 Nm

• Ground Clearance: 10.9 inches

• Transmission: 7-speed automatic

• Towing Capacity: 8,500 lbs

Advantages

• Powerful off-road capability

• Roomy and comfortable inside

• Sophisticated safety measures

Disadvantages

• High fuel usage

• In deep sand, manoeuvrability may be impacted by heavy-weight

2. Toyota Land Cruiser 

The Toyota Land Cruiser is renowned for its durability and off-road performance and is the best SUV for desert driving. It has a strong 4WD system, an efficient V8 engine, and a suspension that can be adjusted. It can endure the roughest desert landscape because of its rugged body-on-frame construction and high ground clearance. The Multi-Terrain Select system, Crawl Control, and a strengthened chassis for increased longevity are important features. 

Technical Details

• Engine: 3.5L Twin Turbo Engine V6 (model 2024)

• Power: 381 hp

• Torque: 630 Nm

• Ground Clearance: 8.9 inches

• Transmission: 8-speed automatic

• Towing Capacity: 8,100 lbs

Advantages 

• Exceptionally reliable and durable

• Sophisticated off-road capabilities, such as Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select

• High resale value 

Disadvantages   
• The high fuel consumption

• Expensive repairs and maintenance

3. Jeep Wrangler 

It is another iconic and best SUV in UAE because of its off-road prowess. It has a tough exterior and a selection of strong engines, such as a V6 and a turbocharged 4-cylinder. The 4x4 systems on the Wrangler, like Rock-Trac and Command-Trac, offer great off-road performance. It is perfect for desert adventures because of its heavy-duty axles, high ground clearance, and removable doors and roof.

Technical Details

•  Engine Options: 3.6L Pentastar V6, 2.0L Turbocharged I4 (model 2024)

• Power: Up to 285 hp

• Torque: Up to 350 Nm

• Ground Clearance: 10.8 inches

• Transmission: 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic

Advantages 

• Outstanding off-road performance when using 4x4 systems

• The off-road experience is enhanced by removable doors and a roof

• Strong support for modifications in the aftermarket

Disadvantages 

•  Not as comfortable on paved roads

• Can be noisy while taking high speed

4. Ford F-150 Raptor 

The Ford F-150 Raptor is unquestionably designed for maximum performance, particularly when off-roading. It has a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine with high output, FOX Racing Shox, and a multi-drive mode Terrain Management System. The Raptor is protected from hard terrain with skid plates and a long-travel suspension. In sandy conditions, stability and control are promised by its broad body and all-terrain tires.

Technical Details

• Engine: 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (2024 model)

• Power: 400 hp

• Torque: 556 Nm

• Ground Clearance: 11.5 inches

• Transmission: 10-speed automatic

• Towing Capacity: 8,000 lbs

Advantages 

• Superior off-road suspension system

• Strong engine producing a lot of torque

• Advanced modes for off-road driving

Disadvantages 

• Large sizes might be difficult in tight areas

• High fuel usage

5. Mercedes-Benz G-Class 

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is an additional luxurious offroad, and the best SUV in UAE that is designed for strength. It has three locking differentials, 4MATIC all-wheel drive, and a twin-turbo V8 engine. The G-Class boasts strong off-road capabilities, a robust ladder frame, high ground clearance, and a G-Mode for improved control in challenging conditions. Even under harsh circumstances, its luxurious interior offers comfort.

Technical Details

• Engine: 5.5L V8 (2024 model)

• Power: 420 hp

• Torque: 610 Nm

• Ground Clearance: 9.5 inches

• Transmission: 9-speed automatic

Advantages 

• Elegant and well-appointed interior

• Strong off-road performance because of three locking differentials

• Outstanding resale value and iconic design

Disadvantages 

• Very costly

• High fuel usage

6. Land Rover Defender 90 

An SUV with great off-road skills and luxury is the Land Rover Defender, the desert drive vehicle in the UAE. It has an adjustable air suspension system, a permanent all-wheel drive system, and a durable aluminum monocoque architecture. Terrain Response 2, a feature of the Defender, automatically modifies the vehicle's settings for best performance on various surfaces. Impressive approach and departure angles are also provided.

Technical Details

• Engine Options: 5.0L Supercharged V8 (2024 model)

• Power: Up to 525 hp

• Torque: Up to 550 Nm

• Ground Clearance: 11.5 inches (adjustable)

• Transmission: 8-speed automatic

Advantages 

• Superior off-road performance because of Terrain Response 2

• Luxurious interior and cutting-edge technology

• High wading depth and ground clearance

Disadvantages 

• Expensive to purchase and maintain

• Complex electronics are not always trouble-free

7. Ford Bronco Raptor 

This list should include the Ford Bronco, the best desert drive vehicle in the UAE because it's capable and reliable. It has an innovative 4WD system, a powerful engine lineup, and a rugged body-on-frame design. The Bronco has excellent trail control, hill descent control, and ground clearance. It is suitable for a variety of off-road experiences because of its durable suspension and all-terrain characteristics.

Technical Details

• Engine Options: 2.3L EcoBoost I4, 2.7L EcoBoost V6 (2024 model)

• Power: Up to 330 hp 

• Torque: Up to 420 Nm 

• Ground Clearance: 11.6 inches 
• Transmission: 10-speed automatic

Advantages

• Durable and reliable 

• Superior off-road performance with cutting-edge 4WD

• Elegant and modern style

Disadvantages

• Greater cost point

• Can be less fuel-efficient

8. Ram 1500 TRX

Some people might be surprised to know that the Ram 1500 TRX is the best SUV for desert driving. It is well-known for its amazing performance and includes a 4WD system that works well in a variety of conditions. The TRX has an advanced suspension system, a high ground clearance, and a reinforced frame. For better off-road performance, it has a rear electronic limited-slip differential and launch control.

Technical Details

• Engine: 6.2L Supercharged HEMI V8 (2024 model)

• Power: 702 hp 

• Torque: 882 Nm 

• Ground Clearance: 11.8 inches 

• Transmission: 8-speed automatic

Advantages 

• Incredibly strong and competent off-road

• Advanced 4WD technology for a range of driving circumstances

• High-tech features and modern technologies

Disadvantages 

• High fuel usage

• Expensive compared to other off-road trucks 

9. Chevrolet Silverado ZR2

The Chevrolet Silverado ZR2, an impressive off-road, best SUV in UAE, boasts a powerful V8 engine, Multimatic DSSV dampers, and a cutting-edge 4WD setup. High ground clearance, a strengthened chassis, and an off-road package with skid plates, front and rear locking differentials, and all-terrain tires are the major features. Its spacious interior provides comfort and practicality for long and amazing desert drives.

Technical Details

• Engine: 6.2L V8 (2024 model)

• Power: 420 hp 

• Torque: 620 Nm 

• Ground Clearance: 11.2 inches 

• Transmission: 10-speed automatic 

• Towing Capacity: 8,900 lbs

Advantages

• Strong engine with outstanding off-road performance

• Strong off-road features and high-ground clearance

• Spacious and comfy interior

Disadvantages

• High fuel usage

• Greater cost in comparison to other off-road trucks 

10. Toyota Land Cruiser LC70 Pick Up

Rugged performance and reliability are combined in the Land Cruiser Pick Up because of its strong engine, full-time 4WD, and durable chassis. With its strong ladder frame, engine, and high ground clearance, the Land Cruiser Pick Up is the perfect desert drive vehicle for off-road trips and heavy-duty tasks. Long desert trips will be comfortable and satisfying because of its functional and simple interior.

Technical Details

• Engine: 4.0L, 6-cylinder (2024 model)

• Power: 228 hp 

• Torque: 360 Nm 

• Ground Clearance: 8.9 inches 

• Transmission: 5-speed manual 

• Towing Capacity: 7,700 lbs

Advantages 

• Durable and reliable construction.

• Outstanding off-road performance while using 4WD all the time

• Functional and practical for frequent hard use

Disadvantages 

• Simple interior design in contrast to more luxurious options.

• Lower power output in comparison to certain competitors

These best SUV for desert options have the features, like powerful engines, excellent ground clearance, and advanced 4WD systems, that are required to handle driving in the desert. The best SUV in UAE option for your off-road adventures will rely on your unique demands and tastes, as each has advantages and disadvantages of its own.

To Sum Up

Without a doubt, going desert driving is an exciting, high-adrenaline-filled ride that will amaze anyone. But safety and choosing the right desert drive vehicle are the major concerns when it comes to this type of leisure. The desert is not the friendliest environment and necessitates extreme caution. In light of this, choosing the best SUV for desert driving is very important. Because they will provide comfort and safety for both the driver and the passengers, you want to be sure the SUV has outstanding strength, reliability, and safety features.

Purchasing comprehensive car insurance in UAE is just as crucial for driving in the deserts as choosing the ideal SUV. The tough desert landscapes pose unique challenges that maximize the risk of vehicle damage, even for the most experienced drivers. Your SUV is protected from potential damages by trustworthy car insurance in UAE coverage, and it promises that unplanned repair costs won't prevent you from taking pleasure in your travels. 

Whether you're upgrading an existing SUV or purchasing a new one, choosing the right insurance coverage will maximize safety and protect your investment on every journey over the desert. Talk to our industry specialists for the best and most suitable car insurance in UAE.