Top 10 4x4s and off-road vehicles for 2024
The vehicles listed here are true off-roaders, built to handle extreme terrain, with a variety of options to suit any level of off-road capability, budget, and personal preference.
10. Dacia Duster
The Dacia Duster is an excellent choice for budget-conscious adventurers looking to tackle off-road trails. While it’s not as cheap as it once was—missing the entry-level all-wheel-drive Access version—it still offers great value compared to similarly equipped superminis. Although it may lack some high-end off-road features, its intelligent four-wheel-drive system allows for easy switching between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, ensuring optimal traction. With a shorter first gear for steep climbs and hill descent control for safer descents, the Duster’s impressive ground clearance and lightweight design enable it to navigate obstacles that heavier rivals struggle with.
9. Kia Sportage X Pro
The Kia Sportage X Pro is a standout choice for those seeking a stylish and versatile SUV that excels both on and off the road. With its robust design and advanced features, it strikes a balance between practicality and performance. The Sportage X Pro is equipped with a powerful all-wheel-drive system that enhances traction and stability in various driving conditions, making it ideal for adventurous outings. Inside, it boasts a spacious, tech-savvy cabin filled with modern amenities, ensuring comfort for both driver and passengers. With its impressive ground clearance and durable construction, the Sportage X Pro is ready to take on diverse terrains while providing a smooth and confident driving experience.
8. Suzuki Jimny
The Suzuki Jimny is touted as the world's only lightweight, true off-roader, weighing just over 1,100 kg and equipped with a ladder-frame chassis and rigid-axle suspension. It excels in off-road conditions, even outperforming the Jeep Wrangler in various angles, and features a quirky kei car design. Suzuki UK withdrew the Jimny from sale in 2020 due to emissions standards, offering it only as a two-seater commercial vehicle, but it remains a fun option for casual drivers and tradespeople needing a capable vehicle for tough jobs.
7. Ford Ranger Raptor
The original Ranger Raptor had its flaws, particularly with a weak 2.0-litre diesel engine that couldn't keep up with its impressive off-road capabilities. Thankfully, the new version keeps the high-speed off-road performance while adding a powerful 288bhp turbocharged 3.0-litre V6. This engine makes the Raptor lively rather than lightning-fast, surprising some sports cars along the way, and its throaty roar is a big improvement over the old diesel drone. However, it’s still a hefty vehicle with chunky off-road tyres and long-travel suspension, meaning it lacks the sharp handling you’d expect from a sporty Ford. The 10-speed automatic transmission can also be a bit slow to respond. On the bright side, its advanced suspension with electronically controlled Fox dampers provides a smooth ride on any terrain, allowing the Ranger to tackle rough paths at impressive speeds.
6. BMW X5
The BMW X5 is designed primarily as a luxury SUV, but it does possess commendable off-road capabilities. It features an intelligent all-wheel-drive system (xDrive) that enhances traction on various terrains, allowing it to handle light off-road conditions, such as gravel, mud, and snow. The X5 also comes with a height-adjustable air suspension, which increases ground clearance for better obstacle clearance and approach angles. Additionally, its driving modes allow for tailored performance, adjusting throttle response and traction control for off-road situations. However, while it can manage some rugged terrain, it's best suited for drivers who want a balance between on-road comfort and occasional off-road adventures rather than extreme off-roading.
5. Land Rover Discovery
While it’s an excellent off-roader, the Land Rover Discovery also excels on the road, offering a smooth and confident driving experience that few others can match. It’s not the grittiest option for extreme off-roading, but it’s incredibly easy to handle in tough conditions, thanks to the brand’s advanced Terrain Response system, which simplifies driving over rough terrain. With the 2021 facelift, the Discovery received new six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, improved suspension, and fresh interior features, maintaining its reputation as a versatile and appealing choice. Although it lacks a plug-in hybrid version due to its seven-seat design, the Discovery is gaining popularity as more buyers appreciate its blend of luxury, space, and off-road capabilities.
4. Mercedes G-Class
The best off-road vehicles have a way of sticking around, and the Wrangler, Land Cruiser, and G-Class (formerly known as the G-Wagen) are prime examples. The G-Class recently got an update but still features a robust ladder-frame chassis, now paired with a fully independent front suspension developed with AMG. This means it offers three locking differentials and impressive ground clearance while maintaining exceptional off-road capabilities. On the road, it’s surprisingly fun and predictable to drive. Mercedes has also kept some nostalgic touches, like traditional door handles and the satisfying 'clack' sound when the doors close.
3. Toyota Land Cruiser
Another icon, and it's one that has historically been the workhorse of choice in the Australian Outback, a place where breaking down simply won't do. This is an old-school off-roader with a body-on-frame construction and big numbers in all departments. For towing, wading and low-ratio, grind-it-out driving across truly inhospitable ground, the Land Cruiser scores very highly. Basic-spec versions are genuinely affordable, while top-spec cars offer packed-out equipment rosters and seating for up to seven.
While it might be less sophisticated on the motorway than its competitors, it's in another league in places where you might actually need a car like this, with a reputation for mechanical dependability and unbreakable toughness that's jealously regarded by every one of its competitors.
2. Jeep Wrangler
Jeep has kept the iconic design of the Wrangler intact, featuring the recognisable circular headlights, seven-slatted grille, and rugged geometry that trace back to the original Willys MB from World War II. The interior is surprisingly spacious and well-finished, paired with improved efficiency from its downsized engines and better road performance—though it's still a Jeep. Off-road, especially in the three-door Rubicon trim, the Wrangler shines with its ladder-frame construction, locking differentials, knobby tyres, and impressive approach and departure angles. However, it falls short of the Land Rover Defender in daily drivability, with less precise handling and a rougher ride, earning it a second-place ranking. On the upside, if you enjoy a little DIY, you can easily remove the Wrangler's roof for some open-air fun!