Americans More Hooked on Off-Roading Than Ever, New Survey Reveals

Off-roading fever is sweeping America. A new survey shows interest in off-road adventures has nearly doubled in the past year, with nearly two-thirds of U.S. drivers now eager to hit the trails. The Hankook Tire Gauge Index survey polled 1,000 American drivers aged 18 and older and found a dramatic surge in enthusiasm across all age groups. Last year, only 34% of respondents expressed interest in off-roading; this year, that number has jumped to 64%. The trend is led by younger drivers, with 74% of Gen Z and 72% of millennials keen to venture off-pavement. Gen X and baby boomers aren’t far behind, with 57% and 42% expressing interest respectively. SUVs remain the top choice for off-road escapades, followed by pickup trucks, while sedans trail far behind. When it comes to powertrains, internal combustion still dominates overwhelmingly. Among SUV buyers, 79% would choose a gas-powered model, while 87% of pickup truck buyers prefer gasoline over electric. The survey also mapped out where Americans want to go off-road. Wooded trails top the list at 45%, followed by desert terrain at 17%, with younger drivers showing a stronger preference for sandy landscapes than older generations. The data aligns with broader industry trends, as automakers continue to prioritize off-road-focused vehicles. While it remains to be seen whether these vehicles actually spend more time on dirt than a gravel parking lot, the surge in interest underscores a growing appetite for adventure driving in the U.S.