Top 10 best 4x4s and off-road cars in 2023

03 Feb 2023

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Top 10 best 4x4s and off-road cars in 2023

SUVs are dominating the sales charts due to their rugged appearance and raised ride height, but they are just family hatchbacks with some rugged styling. If you want a true off-roading machine, you need a 4x4. The cars listed here are the best 4x4s for tackling difficult terrain. The options vary, with some prioritizing off-road performance and others being all-rounders.

1. Land Rover Defender

The new Land Rover Defender, launched in 2020, is the successor to the original Land Rover. With approach and departure angles of 40 degrees and 291mm ground clearance, the Defender is capable of tackling challenging off-road obstacles. It is also equipped with a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and a Terrain Response system, making it easy for even off-road novices to use. The range-topping P525 V8 and the D300 diesel engine are both great options, while the P400e plug-in hybrid is a good choice for fleet users and urban dwellers.

2. Jeep Wrangler

The latest generation of the Wrangler is more usable on theroad and more capable off-road. The Jeep Wrangler has preserved its iconic design and has amore spacious and refined interior. The three-door Rubicon trim is the mostcapable off-road, but its on-road manners are not as good as the Land RoverDefender. The only options available in the UK are four-cylinder petrolengines, with other options available through private import. The 6.4-litre V8special edition Rubicon 392 is the wildest and most unstoppable form of theWrangler

3. Toyota Land Cruiser

Toyota Land Cruiser is an off-roader with a body-on-frame construction, renownedfor its dependability and toughness, particularly in challenging terrains suchas the Australian Outback. The basic-spec Utility models are affordably priced,and the Invincible-spec cars come with a full equipment roster and seating forup to seven. Although it may not have the ride and handling of a monocoque SUV,it excels in harsh driving conditions.

4. Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Mercedes Benz G Class is a classic off-roader that recently underwent a substantialredesign, retaining its off-road capabilities while improving handling and roadperformance. The G-Class features a ladder-frame chassis with independent frontsuspension, three locking differentials, improved ground clearance, and rackand pinion steering. Despite its modern updates, Mercedes has kept traditionaldetails such as the retro door locks and handles, adding to the car's classiccharm.

Our top choice is the smooth six-cylinder diesel engine inthe G400d, however, if you have a Premier League footballer's budget, you canopt for the high-performance Mercedes-AMG G63 with a twin-turbocharged V8petrol engine that produces almost 600 horsepower, though this will drawattention. Keep in mind that neither option is affordable, with the base dieselmodel starting at a steep £131,095

5. Land Rover Discovery

Land Rover Discovery is a top performer in this list, the 5th generation Land RoverDiscovery falls short in ranking. Off-road, it is highly competent and pairedwith impressive road manners, making it a well-rounded package that's hard tobeat. The Discovery travels with confidence and ease, thanks to its advancedTerrain Response system. It handles tough terrain without stress, as the systemtakes care of most of the work, leaving you to steer the car. The 2021 modelreceived a facelift, introducing new six-cylinder engines (petrol and diesel),updated suspension, and fresh interior features. Despite its popularity, aplug-in hybrid version is not available due to the need for 7 seats.

6. Ineos Grenadier

The Ineos falls just outside the top 5 for now, as the onlyexperience with the car has been off-road. Nevertheless, it's evident that theGrenadier is top-notch when it comes to conquering the wilderness. It has atraditional ladder frame chassis and live axles, combined with BMW engines, ZF8-speed automatic gearbox, and a Tremac dual-range transfer 'box for excellentrock-crawling abilities. With high ground clearance and approach/departureangles, the Ineos is unstoppable in rough terrain. It also offers a comfortableinterior with thoughtful ease of use and a touch of luxury. Although, itson-road performance is closer to a Mercedes G-Wagon than the latest Defender,lacking the refinement and dynamics. More road testing is needed to fullyexplore the Ineos.

7. Ford Ranger Raptor

The new Ford Ranger Raptor has improved from its previous model,now equipped with a 288bhp turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine. On the road, it isbrisk but not quick, with a punchy engine and a rortier engine note. However,it's still a big car, with chunky off-road tires and long-travel suspension,lacking precision and grip on tarmac. The highlight is Ford's suspension,with the Fox 'Live Valve' adaptive dampers offering a smooth and controlledride on any terrain. The Ranger can tackle rugged terrain at high speeds, outperformingtraditional 4x4s

Ford Ranger is a niche choice for off-roading,requiring access to remote locations such as a deserted quarry or gravel rallystage to fully showcase its capabilities. Despite its limitations, the Raptorstill appeals to many.

8. Suzuki Jimny

Suzuki Jimny is marketed as a lightweight proper off-roader, which istrue. It has a ladder-frame chassis, rigid-axle suspension, and low-ratiofour-wheel-drive gearbox, weighing just over 1100kg. Although it lacks lockingdifferentials, its approach, breakover, and departure angles are superior tothe Wrangler. The car's kei car looks, small size, and light weight make itsuitable for off-road adventures, but its naturally aspirated 1.5-litre engine,small boot, and poor road manners make it less practical for everyday use. Dueto emissions laws, the Jimny was withdrawn from sale in the UK in 2020, andreplaced with a commercial version, limiting it to two seats.

9. Ssangyong Rexton

Ssangyong Rexton is a full-sized off-roader for budget-conscious buyers. Withseven seats, ladder-frame construction, lockable four-wheel drive, and a201bhp, 2.2-liter diesel engine, it offers good value. The car handles well forits size and performs well, but its ladder-frame chassis makes it feel rough onbumpy roads. The Rexton is best suited for mud-plugging and crossing tracks andfields, with clearance angles just above 20deg.

10. Dacia Duster

Dacia Duster is a budget-friendly option for off-roadadventures. Starting at just under £21,000 for the 4x4 model, it offers greatvalue compared to similarly specified cars. Although it's no longer as cheap asit used to be, the Duster remains a good option for those looking for a carthat can handle off-road adventures.

The Dacia Duster is a budget-friendly off-roader that issuitable for tackling rugged terrain. It comes with a four-wheel drive systemthat allows you to choose the front drive for the road, an Auto mode that quicklyengages the rear axle in case of wheelspin, and a Lock mode that distributestorque equally for better traction. Additionally, the car has hill descentcontrol and a shorter first gear for climbing steep slopes. The infotainmentsystem also features a compass and altimeter. The Duster's lightweight designand decent ground clearance make it capable of overcoming obstacles.

On the road, the Duster is more modern and composed than itspredecessor. It has accurate steering, good body control, and ample grip. Itssoft and long-travel suspension and high-profile tires provide a comfortableride. The diesel engine is powerful and the interior is spacious,well-equipped, and comfortable. The Duster handles well and has a cushionedride, making it at home on both off and on-road conditions

Best 4x4 4x4 2023 Suzuki Jimny 2023 Land Cruiser 2023 Mercedez Benz G Class Land Rover Disocvery Ineos Grenadier Ford Ranger Raptor Ssangyong Rexton Dacia Duster

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