The 4x4 is back in fashion. At the start of the last decade, buyers turned their backs on large four-wheel-drive cars and SUVs due to their reputations as gas-guzzlers. But many have since cleaned up their act with much more efficient diesel engines and clever green technology – and they still retain their enormous presence on the road and impressive ability off it.
Many off road models are still bought as fashion accessories, which is fine for drivers with deep pockets. But if you want low running costs, look elsewhere. Most models in this market weigh more than two tonnes, and need large engines. They’re not as thirsty as they used to be, but owners will still be lucky to see 30mpg.
Those who choose a 4x4 can justify this expense for the peace of mind their car provides. With power going to all four wheels, an off road model has more than enough grip to keep moving through the worst snow and ice in winter, and can cope with mucky farm tracks. The most capable models have clever 4x4 technology that adjusts the suspension, engine and transmission settings to cope with the most extreme terrain, often at the touch of a button.
Many cars in this class rarely get dirty, however, with owners sold instead on the great view of the road and sense of security the elevated seating position provides. The huge dimensions usually mean plenty of interior space, too, and some models make the most of their boot size with extra rear seats that fold up from the boot floor. The vast majority of cars sold in this class run on diesel and have considerable pulling power, so 4x4s are popular with caravan owners due to their huge towing capacity. Just bear in mind that towing will hamper fuel efficiency further.
To help you choose which 4x4 is right for you, we've rounded up 10 of the best. Click the links on the left to find out more.
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I cannot believe that the BMW X cars do not make the list...... someone was asleep at the helm when this Top 10 list was put together
This list seems to put fashion over mudplugging. Now let's rearrange the things a little bit.
1. Land Rover Defender
2. Land Rover Discovery 4
3. Toyota Land Cruiser
4. Range Rover
5. Mitsubishi Shogun
6. VW Touareg
7. Jeep Grand Cherokee
8. Volvo XC90
9. Mercedes ML
10. BMW X5/Porsche Cayenne
Surprised not to see the Dacia Duster either, if only because it's remarkable in many a way.
Putting being British ahead of reliability i see. Typical. Yes the range rover is comfortable and has a beautiful. Which is nice to admire when you're waiting for the AA truck.
Do you not believe that the best mud pluggers are the ones that combine rugged ability, luxury, relative efficiency, and every day usability? If so, the Land Rovers deserve their spot.
Though I had no idea that the Mercedes ML was so good off road?
I don't see many people buying Mercedes ML, BMW X5 and Porsche Cayenne for off-roading. Mercedes ML and Porsche Cayenne GTS are insanely fast on road and that's where their owners keep them. Volvo XC90 and VW Touareg are okay for basic off-roading but no more. For pure off-roading my pick from this list would start from Land Rover Defender or Toyota Land Cruiser and would include Mitsubishi Shogun and Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Is that the same Jeep Grand Cherokee that failed the moose test this year, and deemed as highly dangerous by teknikensvarl.? (have a look on youtube). As for 4x4's I'll take a 4x4 skoda yeti over this lot anyday.
I agree with you. Personally I would prefer a Range Rover or Disco 4. Don't think you can beat their huge range of abilities while still looking classy yet unrestrained.
Yeah, and along the same lines, and what about the Panda 4x4? It depends whether it's a list of the best big SUV's or best four by fours taking into account price, too.
I drive a 4x4 (OK a honda CRV) just because its VERY reliable,VERY comfortable all the time andI have no concerns whatever the weather - I also like the view :)
PS I also like the fact that my dinky little 4x4 also upsets some toyota pious drivers;)
BMW X5 sport best car of all for me.
Yes, low range gives awesome off road ability, coupled with ground clearance ( best to have air suspension).......no body except farmers have access to this type of terrain so what's the point. You're lugging around 2.5-3t of car at 25mpg just incase. Freelander 2 will give 40mpg and get you further off road than you will ever need to go and handles like a well sorted saloon. I like SUV's as they are massively practical, comfortable and nowadays offer good driving and mpg. Full fat 4x4's are for the vein.