Best 4WD SUVs Reviews & Ratings
Reviews & Ratings for Best 4WD SUVs
Best 4WD SUVs Reviewed
While high-tech electronics and flashy alloy wheels are what some people look for when they shop for a sport utility vehicle, there are others who actually demand hardcore performance from their ride. The outdoor lovers and adventure seekers are those who take the path less traveled and are not scared to go out in a snow storm or attempt to get through that muddy field. The best 4WD SUVs have to be able to tackle changing weather and rough terrain.
Some of these vehicles will come ... (full review continues below)
Best 4WD SUVs
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Expert Rating: Rate this Model:While high-tech electronics and flashy alloy wheels are what some people look for when they shop for a sport utility vehicle, there are others who actually demand hardcore performance from their ride. The outdoor lovers and adventure seekers are those who take the path less traveled and are not scared to go out in a snow storm or attempt to get through that muddy field. The best 4WD SUVs have to be able to tackle changing weather and rough terrain.
Some of these vehicles will come as full-time four-wheel drive while others will be part-time. There are also some systems that will monitor the road and determine the precise second 4WD is needed. The vehicles below are those that have earned their reputation through performance and reliability.
First on the list of best 4WD SUVs is the Jeep Patriot. To get the off-road capabilities, you have to choose the Freedom Drive II Off-Road Group, which gives you an upgraded 4WD system that includes a low range. It also includes all-terrain tires, skid plates, hill descent control, tow hooks and a driver seat that is height adjustable.
The Lexus LX makes the list, thanks to its "go anywhere" attitude. It boasts a 5.7-liter V8, stout body structure and a full-time four-wheel drive system. The LX also comes with crawl control, hill start assist and a multi-terrain system controlled by the selection of the driver. Even while tackling rough terrain, it still delivers the smooth ride of a Lexus thanks to its advanced suspension design.
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is next. You can tell just by looking at it that this SUV is made for off-road use. Its tank-like presence and massive power are complemented by a fulltime four-wheel drive system with locking differentials in the front, center and rear. Surprisingly, despite its size, its 382 horsepower can accelerate zero to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds.
Another one of the best 4WD SUVs is the Lexus GX. It features sports adaptive stabilizer bars as well as an adaptive suspension, which boasts three driver selectable modes. Crawl Control modulates braking and throttle automatically to maintain control and speed, and when equipped with a V8, it can tow 6,500 pounds.
The Toyota FJ Cruiser is always a popular pick with those looking for off-road performance, and 2013 brings a new Trail Teams special edition package. Its body-on-frame design, serious four-wheel drive hardware and high ground clearance allow it to go nearly anywhere.
Next on the list of best 4WD SUVs is the Jeep Wrangler; truly an American icon. There is a reason why driving a Wrangler is compared to freedom. Four-wheel drive is standard, which includes both high and low range transfer gear cases. Plus, the six-speed automatic comes with hill-start assist.
Land Rover Range Rover Sport is next due to its all-terrain prowess. This is a vehicle that can conquer obstacles most SUVS would run from, thanks to a two-speed transfer case, full-time 4WD, electronic locking rear differential and ascent and descent controls.
Another one of the best 4WD SUVs it the Jeep Grand Cherokee. This optional adjustable air suspension lets you vary ride height from 6.6 to 10.7 inches, and a driver-mode selector allows you to tailor the suspension and powertrain based on terrain.
Jeep Liberty offers more off-road capacity than the average buyer needs. With its low MSRP and family friendly interior, it is an all-round practical choice for a diverse group of consumers. Two different four-wheel systems are available and properly equipped, it can tow 5,000 pounds.
Land Rover Range Rover is another one of the best 4WD SUVs. This newly redesigned 2013 model gets a retuned air suspension and an adaptive Terrain Response system, which configures the best ride setting based on terrain automatically.
Other vehicles that didn't make the list but still deserve an honorable mention include Land Rover LR2, Nissan Xterra, Jeep Compass, Toyota Land Cruiser, Land Rover Range Rover Evoque, Toyota 4Runner and Land Rover LR4.