Top 8 overland-capable vehicles available in the Philippines

The Philippines is a country with diverse terrain, from bustling cities to rugged mountains and challenging off-road trails. As a result, many Filipinos seek vehicles that are capable of handling various overland adventures and off-road excursions.

There has been an upward trend, especially during the start of the pandemic. Various camps and nature parks around the country were opening up to accommodate campers, overlanders, adventure seekers, or simply those looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the Metro with the quiet and stillness of nature.

That being said, overland and camping setups for vehicles are now more popular than ever, with a lot of aftermarket companies creating parts and equipment to make a living out in nature that much easier for us and, of course, make our beloved vehicles way cooler. (Just admit it)

The Ford Ranger Raptor combines the versatility of a pickup truck with the off-road prowess of a high-performance vehicle. Its reinforced chassis, Fox Racing suspension, and off-road driving modes make it well-suited for tackling rough terrains. The Ranger Raptor's aggressive styling and comfortable interior provide an enjoyable experience both on and off the road.

The increased popularity of the Ranger Raptor also means that a lot of aftermarket companies are creating roof tents, vehicle storage drawers, and other overland-capable equipment exclusively for the Ranger Raptor.

A household pick-up competitor, the Isuzu D-Max is a versatile pickup truck known for its durability and off-road capabilities. With its sturdy construction, generous ground clearance, and powerful diesel engine, the D-Max can tackle challenging terrains effectively. Its comfortable interior and practical features make it a suitable choice for both everyday use and overland adventures.

If the Australian market uses the D-MAX for a lot of their overland and off-road activities, you can be sure to enjoy the D-MAX here in the Philippines as well, especially with a lot of specialized overland support. 

A legendary vehicle full of heritage, the Nissan Patrol Royale is a large SUV with impressive off-road capabilities. With its robust chassis, advanced four-wheel drive system, and a powerful 5.6-liter V8 engine, the Patrol Royale can conquer challenging terrains and provide a comfortable ride for its occupants. Its spacious interior has luxurious features, making it suitable for long-distance overland travel with family and friends.

Yes, it is quite thirsty for fuel, but very few SUV’s at its price point can give the classic “Royale” Japanese refinement that is reminiscent of past V8-powered executive cars that have ferried Japanese executives. 

The Suzuki Jimny, known for its compact size and excellent off-road capabilities, has gained a cult following among overland enthusiasts. Despite its tiny footprint, the Jimny features a robust ladder-frame construction, selectable four-wheel drive, and impressive approach and departure angles. Its compact dimensions make it agile on narrow trails, while its boxy design maximizes interior space for passengers and gear.

Don’t be fooled by its diminutive size, though; a lot of companies offer storage and overland solutions that maximize every inch of this 4x4 for a great overlanding experience. Plus, the new five-door variant offers extra convenience, all without sacrificing this car's off-road capability. 

The Subaru Outback, a high-riding crossover with a reputation for its overall versatility, is well-suited for overland adventures. Its symmetrical all-wheel drive system, generous ground clearance, and X-Mode feature provide enhanced traction and off-road capability. The Outback offers a comfortable cabin and ample cargo space, making it a practical choice for extended overland trips.

Moreover, it is very easy to drive with the right dimensions that help make for capable overlanding and easy city navigation. Dual purpose, that’s hard to beat.

The Toyota Hilux is a legendary pickup truck known for its durability, reliability, and off-road capabilities. It is equipped with a robust chassis, high ground clearance, and a hardy diesel powertrain. The Hilux features a four-wheel drive system that allows it to tackle challenging terrains with ease. Additionally, it offers ample cargo space, making it suitable for carrying camping gear and other equipment needed for overland trips.

Being a Toyota, not only is it easy to maintain, but it is probably the only vehicle in this list that has the most profound amounts of aftermarket options for overlanding and off-road, ensuring you parts availability to hit the trails and campsites as soon as possible.

With its iconic off-road heritage, the Jeep Wrangler is a competent vehicle for overland journeys. Its rugged construction, solid axles, and advanced four-wheel-drive systems allow it to easily navigate various terrains. The Wrangler's removable roof and doors provide an immersive open-air experience, ideal for enjoying the scenic beauty during overland trips.

A true British icon, the Land Rover Defender, renowned for its no-nonsense off-road capabilities, is a versatile SUV that can handle the toughest terrains. Its advanced four-wheel drive system, solid unibody construction, and adjustable air suspension enable it to conquer challenging off-road obstacles. The Defender offers a spacious and comfortable interior, along with advanced technology and luxury features.

What the Defender has an advantage over the other vehicles from this list is the amount of factory options you can specify in order to make this already capable 4x4 an overland-ready vehicle without relying on aftermarket support. From roof tents, built-in air compressors to storage boxes,  Land Rover has you covered the moment you specify or order from the dealership. 

That being said, it does come with a high price tag that can be very prohibitive for a lot, but for those looking for the best that money can buy right now, the Defender is where it’s at.