​​Ford Wins Five Places in the First U.S. News Best Adventure Vehicle Awards​ 

U.S. News & World Report not only reviews vehicles but, its editors rate different cars and trucks based on their suitability for different aspects of our daily lives. Previously, the publication has named “Best Cars for the Money” or “Best Cars for Families;” for 2026, editors have now compiled “Best Adventure Vehicles for 2026” – namely, vehicles believed to be best suited for those who love camping, road-tripping, and off-roading. Stivers Ford of Montgomery is proud to announce that two Ford model lines won five awards in their respective categories. Let’s look at them by each sub-section. 

Best Vehicles for Off-Roading 

Of the three subsections, this is the one where the vehicle choice is most crucial. U.S. News points out that these rankings aren’t intended for hardcore off-road enthusiasts, who often build or heavily modify their vehicles. In choosing the vehicles, editors looked at what they off-road geometry – namely ground clearance and approach, breakover, and departure angles. Editors also noted the availability and designs of skid plates, locking differentials, low-range gearing, and other useful off-road tools. 

Among five SUV categories and three pickup categories, Ford models won three of eight and is the only brand to appear three times among the winners. The Ford winners are: 

• Best Subcompact SUV – 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Sasquatch (Badlands with Sasquatch Package)We would categorize the Bronco Sport model line as compact, but as Ford’s smallest SUV, U.S. News found the Bronco Sport, particularly with the Sasquatch package on the Badlands model, to stand out among other subcompact crossovers for its surprising off-road ability. The package includes the HOSS 3.0 off-road suspension, 8.8 inches of clearance, all-terrain tires, Bilstein rear shocks, enhanced engine cooling, an electronically locking rear differential, steel-plated rear bumpers, rear tow hooks, and high-clearance fender flares. Two of the G.O.A.T (Goes Over Any Terrain) Rock Crawl and Rally found on the more off-road-focused trims were found to be particularly effective.  

• Best Midsize SUV for Off-Roading – 2026 Ford Bronco This, of course, is the Bronco’s reason for being, and U.S. News recognizes that by stating that “the Bronco is ideal for casual and/or extreme off roaders.” They also acknowledge that being a dedicated off-roader involves compromises in on-road noise and fuel economy, particularly as you move to more aggressive off-road tires. But editors note Bronco drivers “get the feeling [they] could tackle any terrain, so my trek down muddy and rocky trails was barely a challenge. The Bronco handled the rough terrain well, keeping the ride stable and relatively comfortable.” 

• Best Full-size Truck for Off-Roading – 2026 Ford F-150  US News noted that the F-150 is offered in “more configurations and permutations than any other car, SUV, or pickup you can buy,” and while recognizing the super capability of the Raptor, they also found that less expensive off-road-focused models like the Tremor are quite capable without completely breaking the bank. 

Best Vehicles for Camping 

Camping vehicles must be good at road trips and, when applicable, towing. It also helps to have space, because getting away from it all ironically means bringing a lot of things with you. “To identify the best options, we evaluated 124 models across 14 categories, sorting them by their ability to carry people and gear, useful features for the journey and at camp, and towing ability.” Two of the three model lines that were awarded for Off-Roading reappear here: 

• Best Subcompact SUV for Camping – 2026 Ford Bronco Sport
  Despite its small footprint, U.S. News found the Bronco Sport’s upright squared-off styling to provide plenty of space for camping gear. Editors were also impressed by the rear seat room for passengers. The ability to tow 2,700 pounds on some trims like the Badland provides the ability to bring along at least a lightweight pop-up trailer. 

• Best Full-Size Pickup Truck – 2026 Ford F-150
  U.S. News leads its F-150 description with “If you plan to pull some serious kit with you to camp, then the class-leading Ford F-150 is your best bet.” Editors go on to note certain configurations can tow up to 13,500 pounds. What cinched the camping win, however, was the Pro Power Onboard tech, which uses the truck’s battery to power lights and other appliances. While other trims offer the feature, it is the hybrid model that has the stored energy to make the most of it. “The 7.2kW system available on the hybrid F-150 can even supply 240 volts, enough to power a trailer and campsite for days.” 

You may be on your computer now, but just getting this far in the article tells us that you might just yearn to stray from the beaten path outdoors. Come check out the Ford models that can be your best partner in that goal with a visit to Stivers Ford of Montgomery, where you will find literally hundreds of each of these Ford models from which to choose.