Will their owners take them off-road, though?
While SUVs are popular in nearly every new-car category, the reality is that there are only a handful that are really able to tackle the toughest off-road conditions. Here we select five of our favourite 4x4s to get you over the most demanding terrain.
To be the best off-road car, four-wheel drive is essential. Sending power to all four wheels makes the most of the grip available, or lack of it, while clever electronics and differentials help these cars to send power to the tyres with the most traction on offer. The ability to lock differentials, electronically or manually, is key for proper off-road ability.
Low-range gears can help in the toughest conditions, while some of these cars have electronic control systems that manage all of the mechanical and electronic parts, so that you can concentrate on the terrain ahead.
Our selection of off-road cars covers most bases, from the budget conscious to the utilitarian and luxurious.
Dacia Duster
From £23,345
If you’re intent on heading off road in a brand-new car, then the Dacia Duster makes a lot of sense, since it’s such excellent value. With prices for the four-wheel-drive versions starting from around £23k, you won’t be quite so precious if it gets the odd knock here and there. The 4×4 models are diesel only, so good fuel economy will help to keep those costs down in everyday driving, too.
It’s not the most hardcore 4×4 on our list but it does have decent ground clearance, short overhangs, off-road displays on the infotainment system, hill descent control and an electronic locking centre differential to help make sure there’s traction in slippery conditions.
Ford Ranger Raptor
From £46,300
While it’s based on a commercial vehicle, the Ranger Raptor doesn’t qualify as a CV because it can’t carry a tonne of payload. Think of it more like a performance off-roader instead. It has rally raid-based suspension under those wide wheelarches that’s designed to cope with fast off-roading, yet the set-up means it’s also pretty comfortable as family transport on road.
The second generation of the Ranger Raptor continues where the original left off, though now with a brawny petrol engine
Ineos Grenadier
From £55,000
Ineos is a newcomer to the 4×4 sector and the firm’s first model to launch here is the rugged Grenadier. It is considered by some as a spiritual successor to the old Land Rover Defender, with utilitarian styling, a basic interior and go-anywhere off-road ability. Power comes from BMW-sourced petrol or diesel engines, and the Grenadier offers a first-class off-road experience.
Land Rover Defender
From £51,365
The old Defender was no longer up-to-spec when it comes to safety or emissions standards, so an all-new model was inevitable. Launched in 2020, the second generation is more upmarket, with more sophisticated tech and a far more comfortable interior, which has made room for the Grenadier in the marketplace, but the Defender is still massively talented off road. The addition of air suspension and Land Rover’s most sophisticated version of its Terrain Response off-road electronics help it conquer all surfaces.
There’s plenty of space in the five-door 110 and longer 130 versions while the three-door 90 model offers a more compact package – and there’s a commercial “Hard Top” version, too. The most impressive things about the Defender are its on-road refinement and handling, which are light years ahead of the old machine.
Toyota Land Cruiser
From £47,675
Japan’s answer to the Range Rover is still going strong and combines near-unstoppable off-road ability with decent luxury, though it’s nowhere near as plush as its British rival. The four-cylinder diesel engine under the bonnet isn’t the most refined or economical either, but if you want to head for the hills with the confidence that your 4×4 won’t let you down, then the Land Cruiser is a top choice.
- If you liked our article on the best off-road cars to buy in 2023, you might also be interested to hear that you can still buy a new Lada Niva 4×4 in the UK – but there are some snags
- Also check out our guide to the best used 4×4 estate cars for adventures off the beaten track
- And if you’re into affordable 4x4s, take a look at how we got on off-road with the Ssangyong Musso and Rexton
Keyword: Five best off-road cars to buy in 2023