Ram 1500 TRX4
Base Price: $30,455
Consecutive Years On List: 2
When the Ram was redesigned for 2009, it instantly became one of our favorite designs on the market. However, beauty isn't just skin-deep on the Ram, as the 1500 TRX4 has some very desirable qualities for those who have a need to hit the dirt. Take, for example the revised suspension tuning, a tight rear helical limited-slip, coil-sprung rear suspension, skidplates, 3.92:1 axle ratio, 32-inch Goodyear tires and an available 5.7L Hemi V-8. While the Ram works great on the pavement, what is surprising is just how well this fullsize truck works on the trail. Take it to the soft terrain, such as deep sand, and the link-coil arrangement in the rear harnesses all of the Hemi power without a hint of axle hop. Best-in-class ride highway ride and available Ram Box functionality seal the deal for us.
Hummer H3/H3T Adventure Package
Base Price: $33,320
Consecutive Years On List: 6
The brand may officially be dead, but that doesn't change the fact that the Hummer H3/H3T was one of the best factory off-road vehicles ever produced, and a perennial favorite of ours. Incredible approach and departure angles, 33-inch Bridgestone Dueler tires, front and rear lockers, full skidplating, rock rails and a 4:1 transfer case made the H3 and H3T beasts on the trail. The H3 Alpha won our Four Wheeler of the Year competition in 2008, and in 2009 the Hummer H3T took top honors in our Pickup Truck of the Year shootout. With inventory waning, killer deals can be had (how does less than $30,000 sound?) on the H3/H3T until supplies are exhausted. As a bonus, GM will still service them and back your warranty. Hummer had its image problems, but the vehicles work on the trail and worked well. There will always be a soft spot for the Hummer brand at Four Wheeler.
Ford Super Duty FX4
Base Price: $32,780 (2011 pricing)
Consecutive Years On List: 6
It's no surprise that when you arrive at the trailhead, you see Super Dutys everywhere towing trail rigs. It could very well be the poster child for people who tow. The big Ford is available in countless configurations, and while you are more likely to come across a Power Wagon on the trail, it is the Ford that you see hauling the majority of the toys to and fro. Ford doesn't make a half-bad package in the FX4, either. Checking off that box on your tow rig adds Rancho shocks, 33-inch tires, Hill Descent Control, an electronic rear locker, and skidplates. A luxuriously trimmed cabin with room for all and the ability to yank whatever you want to hook up to it makes solidifies the Super Duty's return to our 10 Best list.