Plenty of torque, the manual transmission shifts more like a car than a truck, optional locking rear diff.
Body-on-frame construction offers better rigidity and durability for off road use than a unibody.
Lots of tie-down hooks, fold flat seats (including front passenger seat). 5,000 lb tow capacity is more than enough to tow a couple of motorcycles or a pop-up tent trailer.
Good on-road manners combined with off-road ability.