Best 4-Wheel-Drive Cars And SUVs of 2026 | New 4WD Vehicles | CarBuzzThe distinction between all-wheel drive (AWD) convenience and true four-wheel drive (4WD) capability has often been the defining aspect for the discerning adventurer or someone who understands the difference between the two drivetrains. In 2026, there is still a healthy demand for authentic 4WD SUVs, even though the market is flooded with AWD crossovers masquerading as built-tough utility vehicles. We are bypassing pickup trucks and AWD sedans, strictly focusing on the absolute best 4WD SUVs available in 2026.Vehicles are assigned a BuzzScore in relation to their direct segment competitors, and as such, vehicles in this list, while similarly scored, do not necessarily compete directly against one another. Find out more about how the BuzzScore ratings work here. These lists are continuously updated with the latest BuzzScores and vehicles as they become available. This list looks at only SUVs as there are no passenger cars on sale with four-wheel drive. Our ranking for best four-wheel drive trucks can be found here. Lincoln Navigator The Lincoln Navigator is a strong player in the full-size luxury SUV segment. This latest iteration pushes the boundaries with its 48-inch panoramic digital dashboard and available spa-like seating features. This 4WD SUV remains an exceptional highway cruiser, making it a prime candidate for those who rate space or opulence highly. Buyers seeking human-centric touches among four wheel drive cars will appreciate the split tailgate and specialized drive modes.Underneath the metal, the Navigator relies on a proven powertrain. Every trim - from the Premiere to the Black Label - is powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine producing 440 horsepower and 510 lb-feet of torque. Power is managed by a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, and, crucially, four-wheel drive (4x4) is now standard across the entire lineup; no more two-wheel drive configurations. The standard 4x4 system yields an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 15 mpg in the city, 22 mpg on the highway, and 17 mpg combined, offering up to 8,700 lbs of towing capacity. Lexus LX The Lexus LX serves as the brand's flagship off-roader, with unyielding capability and all the luxuries and comforts. Built on the GA-F platform shared with global off-road legends, the LX is designed for buyers who expect their 4x4 SUV to survive harsh terrains. As one of the best 4 wheel drive cars in its class, the SUV manages to deliver a remarkably hushed cabin, all while retaining the mechanical hardware necessary to scale steep inclines with absolute confidence.The Lexus LX draws its strength from a 3.4L twin-turbocharged V6 engine that generates 409 hp and 479 lb-ft, which is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The LX 700h hybrid variant introduces an electrified option, pushing combined output to 457 hp. Full-time 4WD (4x4) with a locking center differential and low-range gearing is standard on all trims: Premium, F SPORT, Luxury, Ultra Luxury, and 700h grades. The standard V6 returns an EPA-estimated 17 mpg city, 22 mpg highway, and 19 mpg combined, and 0-60 mph takes around 7 seconds. GMC Yukon GMC’s Yukon leverages a recent refresh to offer a highly capable, imposing family hauler. It stands out as a highly compelling best 4WD SUV candidate, and the lineup spans from the pragmatic Elevation to the trail-focused AT4 and ultra-luxurious Denali Ultimate. For buyers shifting away from standard cars with 4 wheel drive toward massive SUVs, the Yukon’s cabin features huge digital displays, and the vast interior dimensions ensure third-row passengers and heavy cargo can be accommodated comfortably.GMC provides three engine choices: a 355-hp 5.3L V8, a 420-hp 6.2L V8, and a highly efficient 305-hp 3.0L turbo-diesel that generates 495 lb-ft of torque. All engines utilize a 10-speed automatic transmission, but 4WD with a two-speed transfer case is standard exclusively on the AT4, AT4 Ultimate, and Denali Ultimate trims. For the Elevation and standard Denali, 4WD is an available option over standard rear-wheel drive (RWD). In terms of fuel economy, the 5.3L V8 with 4WD hovers around 15 mpg city / 19 mpg highway, while the 4WD turbo-diesel boasts 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Chevrolet Tahoe The Chevrolet Tahoe shares much of its architecture with the Yukon, but takes a slightly more accessible approach to the full-size SUV segment. The current iteration of this famed SUV features more refined interior layouts, advanced trailering tech, and enhanced Super Cruise availability. It is, effectively, a workhorse masquerading as a comfortable commuter, providing massive cargo volume and an adult-friendly third row. Buyers shopping for 4 wheel drive SUVs will appreciate the Tahoe's diverse trim hierarchy, ranging from the LS to the street-styled RST and luxurious High Country. The owertrain options mirror that of the Yukon, but the Z71 trim is the only model to include 4WD with a two-speed active transfer case as standard equipment. 4WD is an available option on the rest of the range, which features RWD as standard. Land Rover Defender Octa The Land Rover Defender Octa represents the absolute pinnacle of British off-road engineering. Available exclusively in the 110 body style, the Octa is a ferocious machine that boasts specialized 6D Dynamics air suspension and a wider stance for supreme body control, setting it apart from standard SUVs with 4 wheel drive. With its aggressive copper paint options, bespoke styling cues, and high-performance hardware, the Octa is a highly exclusive, uncompromised off-roader that hits the ground running immediately, both on- and off-road.The Defender Octa is powered by a BMW-sourced 4.4L twin-turbocharged mild-hybrid V8. This powerhouse generates 626 hp and up to 590 lb-ft, sending this brute of an SUV from 0-60 mph in a blistering 3.8 seconds via an 8-speed automatic transmission. As expected of Land Rover’s halo model, it features an advanced permanent 4WD system as standard, complete with an exclusive 'Octa' drive mode featuring bespoke ABS calibrations for gravel. Consequently, fuel economy is not its strongest trait, so let’s just say that it won’t be an issue if you can afford it. Lexus GX The Lexus GX returns to its roots with a brutalist, boxy exterior that signals serious intent. It is a body-on-frame SUV designed to endure punishing environments while insulating passengers in premium materials. This SUV with 4WD is aimed directly at overland enthusiasts who want nothing less than Lexus reliability paired with mechanical locking differentials. The Overtrail grades strip away unnecessary chrome in favor of all-terrain tires and Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension (E-KDSS).The GX abandons its old V8 for a modern 3.4L twin-turbocharged V6 engine that produces 349 hp and 479 lb-ft, paired with a 10-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission. Full-time 4WD with a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential is standard across all trims, but the specialized Overtrail trims feature an additional electronically controlled locking rear differential. The EPA estimates the GX’s fuel economy at 15 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined. Toyota Sequoia The Toyota Sequoia is a massive family hauler that leans heavily into its Tundra-derived roots. This generation strictly utilizes a hybrid powertrain, which helps in putting it on the list of top four wheel drive SUVs. The Sequoia demands attention due to its aggressive styling, bulletproof reliability reputation, and the sheer grunt of its standard hybrid setup.Every Sequoia in 2026 is motivated by the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, coupling a 3.4L twin-turbo V6 with an electric motor to generate 437 hp and a monstrous 583 lb-ft. The powertrain is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Part-time 4WD with a two-speed transfer case is standard on the TRD Pro, 1794 Edition, Platinum, and Capstone trims, and as an available option on the SR5 and Limited trims, which come standard with RWD. In 4WD configuration, the Sequoia delivers respectable fuel economy, achieving an EPA-estimated 19 mpg city, 22 mpg highway, and 20 mpg combined. Toyota 4Runner The Toyota 4Runner is now in its sixth generation and has migrated to the TNGA-F global truck platform. The SUV retains its legendary toughness but introduces vastly improved driving dynamics and modernized cabin technology. Toyota wisely kept the roll-down rear window to preserve the 4Runner’s unique identity among modern 4 wheel drive cars. The lineup offers everything from the base SR5 to the overlanding-focused Trailhunter and high-speed TRD Pro. Admittedly, purists may mourn the old naturally aspirated V6, but the new turbocharged powertrains provide ample low-end torque.The 4Runner offers two 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder options: the standard i-FORCE generates 278 hp and 317 lb-ft, while the hybrid i-FORCE MAX puts out 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque. Both utilize an 8-speed automatic transmission. Part-time 4WD is standard on the TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter trims, while full-time 4WD with a center locking differential is standard on the Platinum and available on the Limited. The SR5 and TRD Sport trims offer part-time 4WD as an option over the standard RWD system. Fuel economy for standard 4WD models sits at 19 mpg city / 25 mpg highway. Hybrid 4WD models achieve 23 city / 24 highway. Ford Bronco The Ford Bronco remains a triumph of retro-futuristic design, meaning it is visually (and acoustically, depending on the engine), wide, and completely unconcerned with aerodynamic efficiency. Available in two- and four-door configurations with removable roofs and doors, it is all about open-air freedom and mechanical grip in off-road conditions. If you’re looking at highly modular 4x4 cars, the Bronco’s G.O.A.T. modes, available electronic-locking differentials, and disconnecting sway bars make it an incredibly versatile option.The Bronco is available with three engine choices: a 2.3L turbocharged inline-four (275 hp, 315 lb-ft), a 2.7L twin-turbo V6 (330 hp and 415 lb-ft), and a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 producing 418 hp and 440 lb-ft that’s exclusive to the Bronco Raptor. A 10-speed automatic transmission is standard on V6 models, while a 7-speed manual remains an available option on certain models. 4WD (full- or part-time) is standard across every single Bronco trim, and there are no standard 2WD options. The 2.3L 4WD has an efficiency rating of around 20 mpg combined, the 2.7L 19 mpg combined, and the Raptor 15 mpg. Ford Expedition The Ford Expedition is a big SUV, and the features include a massive 24-inch panoramic digital display and available BlueCruise hands-free driving. Unlike many competitors, third-row occupants enjoy legitimate legroom and a ride quality that’s just as comfortable as for those in the other two rows of seats. Among heavy-duty 4WD cars, the Expedition offers the King Ranch for luxury buyers and the specialized Tremor for those needing enhanced ground clearance and underbody protection when going off-road.Power comes from a 3.5L EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 engine that generates 400 hp and 480 lb-ft in standard form, or up to 440 hp in the high-output configuration. The engine is linked to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The off-road-oriented Tremor trim comes standard with 4WD, a suspension lift, and modified skid plates. For the Active, Platinum, and King Ranch trims, 4WD is an available upgrade from the standard RWD setup. The 4WD-equipped Expedition is rated at an EPA-estimated 16 mpg in the city, 22 mpg on the highway, and 18 mpg combined. Characteristics Of Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicles You can find new 4-wheel-drive trucks and SUVs in just about every shape and size, from small, compact crossovers, to the most reliable full-size pickups. So their characteristics can vary wildly. However, there are a few things that set the best apart from the rest: Drivetrain: Naturally, a 4WD vehicle requires the appropriate oily bits. Though it functions similarly to AWD, the two should not be confused. 4WD can be either part-time or full-time four-wheel drive, and they come with a low-range transfer case for optimal torque delivery. 4WD cars also often have locking differentials to help get you out of sticky situations, but less ideal for on-road handling. Power: 4x4 vehicles are generally oriented to being superior off-roading machines, and they aren’t designed to go fast; in fact, the opposite is true as they clamber up rough terrain. This works well when paired with a manual transmission, although some offer manual gearboxes that do the job just as well, even at low speeds or in low-range gearing. Safety: There is no denying that improved traction helps a vehicle remain poised and planted on the road, and this has inherent safety benefits. Four-wheel-drive cars are also heavier than 2WD cars, which benefits road-holding. Since many high-end or specialist SUVs and cars come equipped with 4WD, comprehensive driver-assistance suites are expected. And, with various drive modes designed specifically for conditions like mud, gravel, snow, or wet, you are more likely to get the traction you need to keep occupants safe. Price: A 4x4 is a complex piece of machinery and, therefore, it doesn’t come cheap. Some of the pickup trucks that come equipped with 4WD aren’t too expensive, but most of the SUVs that get it as standard are pricey. The added weight of the best 4-wheel-drive cars also means that these heavy vehicles don’t get good gas mileage. What To Consider When Buying A 4WD SUV Even the best 4WD SUVs have drawbacks, but if you know what they are, you can tailor your shortlist with only the best models. Pros High levels of power and torque Great traction in adverse weather conditions Special drive modes for snow, mud, and gravel roads The best drivetrain for spirited off-roading Good safety expectations Good ground clearance and approach/ramp/departure angles Cons Lacks on-road comfort More expensive to buy and maintain Higher curb weights due to extra mechanical bits Expect high gas mileage and a hefty bill What type of cars are 4-wheel drive? Generally speaking, it is off-road-oriented vehicles that come with either part-time or full-time four-wheel drive. This includes crossovers, SUVs, and pickup trucks. What car has the best 4-wheel-drive system? Identifying the best can be subjective, but when considering the best-functioning 4WD system on the market, it’s logical to follow the route of off-roading specialists such as Jeep and Land Rover.