Top 10 of the best 4×4: which 4×4 to choose in 2023? | Vroomly, top 10 of best 4x4s to buy (2023).
Top 10 of the best 4 × 4 to buy (2023)
Under its cossu SUV air, the Land Cruiser remained a real adventurer: no monohull, but a strong scale chassis, a range of short reports and a blocking of bridges. Traction and motor skills are served by sharp electronic management, all in almost luxurious comfort. like a range, but cheaper.
Top 10 of the best 4×4: which 4×4 to choose in 2023 ?
Find the best garage to repair your 4×4:
It is very easy today to confuse 4×4 and SUV: if the SUVs borrow a lot from the 4×4 in terms of aesthetics, they do not have the same mechanical specificities and are rather intended for a driving. So, if you want to go on an adventure, ride in the mud or a built -up terrain without fear anything. Here is our selection of the best 4x4s !
- 10 – Dacia Duster: the perfect entry -level 4×4
- 9 – Mini countryman: the mini. maximum version
- 8 – Suzuki Jimny: the funny little
- 7 – Toyota Rav4: the right compromise on the hybrid side
- 6 – Jeep Renegade: the American little
- 5 – Land Rover Defender: British know -how
- 4 – Mercedes G -Class: one of the top -end tenors
- 3 – Land Rover Discovery: the eternal competitor
- 2 – Ford Bronco: Beauty, Big, the real 4×4
- 1 – Jeep Wrangler Rubicon: the unbeatable
Find the best garage to repair your 4×4:
10 – Dacia Duster: the perfect entry -level 4×4
Yes, we might not think it like that, but the Dacia Duster was able to impose itself on the SUV and entry -level 4×4 market with an all -wheel drive. If it previously existed in petrol version, you will now only find it in diesel motorization (the BlueDCI 115 model). It is available from 19,290 €, but also in a prestige version at € 22,900.
As we know: the subsidiary of the Renault group has largely succeeded by offering different types of vehicle at low cost. This is why the Duster is the 9th best -selling car in France in 2021 !
9 – Mini countryman: the mini. maximum version
What if the little mini of The Italian Job had taken steroids ? It is the crazy bet of the Mini Countryman, attempted incursion of the British manufacturer in the 4×4 market.
For an all -wheel drive, bet on the Cooper declination, available from € 30,000 With a 150 hp engine. It is also available in a rechargeable hybrid version from € 41,200, With a range of 500 km, and entirely electric up to 57 km.
Find the best garage to repair your 4×4:
8 – Suzuki Jimny: the funny little
He too has marked the spirits thanks to his small size: 3.64 meters barely. And yet, the Suzuki Jimny still has 4 places ! Elapsed more than 2.8 million copies At the end of 2018, this Japanese little 4×4 marks the automotive market since 1970.
His only little disadvantage ? It is only available in a single model and a single type of petrol engine: a 4-cylinder of 102 horsepower. However, it has risks of seeing its sale suspended in France because of its CO2 emissions (it is classified e, with 173 grams of CO2 per kilometers).
7 – Toyota Rav4: the right compromise on the hybrid side
With more than 26 million copies sold worldwide, the Toyota Rav4 is one of the most lucrative models of the Japanese manufacturer. His little name wants to shout to anyone who would like to hear that he is a 4×4: RAV4 means “Recreational Active Vehicul With 4-Wheel Drive” (4 -wheel drive active leisure vehicle). We are not clearer.
Elected the best sold SUV in the world in 2019, he also declined in a rechargeable hybrid version in 2020, available from € 37,950 and which is one of the most ecological cars on the market.
6 – Jeep Renegade: the American little
She managed to win among the other models of the famous American brand. The Jeep Renegade takes up the aesthetic codes of its manufacturer while managing to reduce its manufacturing costs: it is indeed produced in the Fiat Melfi factory, located in southern Italy, and sharing parts in common with other Italian manufacturer’s vehicles.
With a price starting to € 29,000, It remains among the most accessible 4×4 models. And promised, we did not put it in the top just because it did the beautiful hours of the revival of Burger Quiz.
5 – Land Rover Defender: British know -how
The Land Rover Defender represents the culmination of more than 70 years of know-how on the part of the British manufacturer. Its latest model also has a rechargeable hybrid version, effective on everyday journeys: it reaches 43 kilometers in all electric !
In petrol version, it is available from € 55,400. The hybrid version is more expensive, from 77,100 €. We will also retain his performance in the last James Bond, Dying can wait, where the British spy has fun making him do barrels in the middle of the forest. Besides, we also offer you a small selection of the best cars led by James Bond !
4 – Mercedes G -Class: one of the top -end tenors
40 years old, still alive, always standing, always banana, rest assured: the Mercedes class G does not intend to leave ! Despite its military look, the German vehicle still has its place on the high -end 4×4 market.
If it is available from 127,350 €, Some of his variations have been able to reach heights. Like the dizzying price of € 765,000 For the Mercedes Class G 650 Landaulet, which was limited to 99 copies. Just that.
3 – Land Rover Discovery: the eternal competitor
The Land Rover Discovery was launched in 1989, in reaction to the hand of Japanese manufacturers on the all-terrain market. It wants to be more accessible than the Roger Roger and more practical to handle than the Defender. One of the major advantages of this model is its family car aspect: it has a total of seven places ! However, it does not make concessions on the technical aspect.
It is available in petrol engine, ingenium diesel and hybrid, with an intelligent all -wheel drive (the Response Field System) which automatically distributes the torque between the front and rear wheels to optimize the activity of the. The only drawback ? Again, the price, since Discovery is one of the luxury models: No less than 90,600 € For the starting price.
2 – Ford Bronco: Beauty, Big, the real 4×4
Its new model is not available for sale in France, but the Ford Bronco is also one of the 4x4s that have marked history. Just seeing him in pictures, he puts his sight. Imposing, square, massive: it is a pure and hard 4×4. Its starting price is equivalent to approximately € 30,000.
It has many variations which encourage driving in extreme conditions: the bronco Everything, which will be released this summer, will count a winch by default, to get you out of a delicate situation, and a snorkel, particularly useful in the event of driving on Very dusty road or in puddles of water.
1 – Jeep Wrangler Rubicon: the unbeatable
It is one of the best known 4x4s in the whole world and the best 4×4 of this ranking: the Jeep Wrangler has been the heyday of the American brand since 1986. Its qualities are recognized by the international press: Business Week included in his list of the most iconic cars of the last twenty years in 2009.
So yes, time has passed, but Wrangler sales have not stopped increasing: they exceed 200,000 copies in the United States since 2015. And in its Rubicon model, it is all the more formidable in the field ! He is available from € 74,600.
And here you are, all the latest 4x4s on the market ! So, that’s it, you know which 4×4 to choose ? If you prefer to turn to another type of car (best city car, best pick-up, etc.) or even whether you are looking for best motorhome, Find all our other comparisons !
Find the best garage to repair your 4×4:
Top 10 of the best 4 × 4 to buy (2023)
You want you Buy a 4 × 4 But you don’t know which model to choose ? Do not panic, we have selected for you 10 best 4 × 4 from the moment. There are a multitude of 4 × 4 on the market, and it is not always easy to navigate. First of all, you should know what your needs in terms of size, power and loading capacity are. Then, you have to compare the different models according to their price, their performance and their consumption. That you are looking for a 4 × 4 compact, of a Family 4 × 4 or a 4 × 4 all-terrain, You will necessarily find the model that suits you among our selection.
Summary of the article
What are the real 4 × 4 ?
In the preamble, it should be remembered that a 4 × 4 is an all-terrain vehicle, that is to say that it is designed to drive on all types of land. However, all all-terrain vehicles are not 4 × 4. This is the case for most SUVs that have the backpacker look, but are only intended to be used on good quality roads … The real 4 × 4 are equipped with four -wheel drive, a specific chassis, of adapted suspensions, which allows them to better traction on the most difficult terrain.
�� Which 4 × 4 car choose ? Our ranking of the 10 best 4 × 4 (2023)
This classification was established according to 4 important criteria to take into account before your purchase, namely:
The new auto application !
- Photograph,
- Compare,
- Buy and / or sell at the best price
10-Mazda CX-5 2.2 Skyactiv-d: The most beautiful Japanese 4 × 4
| Year | 2022 |
| Price | 45,300 euros |
| Motorization | diesel |
| Power | 184 CH |
The Mazda CX-5 is not only one of the prettiest SUVs on the current market. It is also an excellent crosseder adopted more and more by the mountain dwellers. The world bestseller, however, has trouble winning in France. It’s a shame, because the Japanese 4×4 ticks all the boxes of the ideal family car: powerful engines, top driving pleasure, beautiful habitability.
9 – Subaru Outback 2.5i: the most adventurous
| Year | 2022 |
| Price | 49,990 euros |
| Motorization | essence |
| Power | 169 CH |
Not well known with us, the Subaru Outback has a great career in the United States. The Japanese station wagon only available in petrol engine, not only has a backpacker look. It’s a backpacker. A real. High perched, with its 4 -wheel drive, it is able to roll on all roads, including the rugged paths. And towed up to two tonnes.
8 – Grenadier Ineos: the real old 4 × 4
| Year | 2022 |
| Price | 69,490 euros |
| Motorization | diesel |
| Power | 249 CH |
Grenadier Ineos 3.0 td is a real 4×4. A pure and hard. The English all -terrain made in France, benefits from lockable differentials, specific suspensions and an all -wheel drive that allows it to really pass everywhere everywhere. The cabin is of course functional, but still with a few touches of refinement.
7 – Suzuki Jimny: the little 4 × 4 mountains
| Year | 2018 |
| Price | 21,260 euros |
| Motorization | essence |
| Power | 102 hp |
The Suzuki Jimny is the perfect car of those who live in the mountains or who take damaged roads daily. With its 210 mm ground clearance, its chassis-scale with rigid axle and above all its allgrip pro system of all-wheel drive swallowed with short speed range, the small Japanese 4×4-only in 2-seater utility version-is the ideal companion of adventurers. Ideal for those looking for a 4 × 4 with a small size.
6 – Fiat Panda Cross: Ecologo 4 × 4
| Year | 2022 |
| Price | 19,200 euros |
| Motorization | essence |
| Power | 86 CH |
High on legs, adventurer look and economical and dynamic micro-hydrid engine, the Fiat Panda Cross has nothing to do with its predecessor released in 1983. With its good boil, the small 4×4 is comfortable in town as in the mountains, always ready to do battle on all roads in summer as in winter. In addition, the Fiat Panda Cross has a micro-hybridized engine that consumes little. A real little green backpacker.
5 – 4 × 4 Toyota Land Cruiser: The oldest in its category
| Year | 2021 |
| Price | 50,590 euros |
| Motorization | diesel |
| Power | 204 hp |
A myth ! Launched in 1951, the Toyota Land Cruiser has been embarking over the world for over 70 years on the most difficult paths on the planet with incredible ease. Massive, heavy, solid, diesel fuel, the Japanese all-terrain does not do in the lace. But this 13th generation still as functional has some modern equipment such as a large tactile central screen, as well as all aids to the latest driving.
4 – Dacia Duster: the cheap 4 × 4
| Year | 2021 |
| Price | 23,900 euros |
| Motorization | diesel |
| Power | 116 CH |
While waiting for a new version for 2024, the Dacia Duster remains the undisputed champion of Cheap 4 -wheel drive vehicles. Whatever the version, petrol, diesel or even LPG, the Dacia Duster remains the best option for those looking for a car with a nice, spacious, well -equipped, practical, reliable, pleasant to handle, easy to handle , with its all -wheel drive, especially on snowy roads. An all -terrain field of entry -level perfect for those who want to familiarize themselves with the world of 4 × 4.
3 – Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4xe
| Year | 2021 |
| Price | 89,500 euros |
| Motorization | hybrid |
| Power | 272 CH |
�� Find the Jeep Wrangler in the ranking of the best American cars
The Jeep Wrangler can live with his time. The emblematic American 4 × 4 is now only available in a rechargeable hybrid version. The ecological penalty has been there. Fortunately, purists will regain its timeless “rustic” design outside, like inside. Especially since he loses absolutely nothing of his qualities as an adventurer and real crosseder while displaying a consumption of less than 4L/100 km.
2 – MERCEDES CLASS G 63 AMG
| Year | 2020 |
| Price | 186,600 euros |
| Motorization | essence |
| Power | 585 hp |
The Mercedes G -Class is a bit of Mohicans, the 4 × 4 of all superlatives: ultra efficient, ultra expensive, ultra luxurious. Above all, the most exclusive and politically incorrect advertising of the market has exceptional crossing capacities while accelerating stronger than a Porsche 911 Carrera.
1 – Land Rover Defender: the most luxurious 4 × 4
| Year | 2020 |
| Price | 93,700 euros |
| Motorization | hybrid |
| Power | 404 CH |
The Land Rover Defender remains the best representative of the old -fashioned franchisers who have been able to evolve over time. His inimitable chic backpacker style really has something to seduce gentlemen farmers with a well -stocked wallet who are looking for a large luxurious, powerful, comfortable, capable of venturing hand on all types of coating, whatever the weather conditions.
⚖ Conclusion
The 4 x 4 is a very practical vehicle for people who need to transport a lot of things or people. However, it is important to choose your model well according to your needs and budget. So, if you have a tight budget, go for the excellent Dacia Duster at ease on all playgrounds. If you want to favor versatility, Mazda CX-5 is a very good choice. If you are a real adventurer, you will not be mistaken by opting for one of the three mythical all terrain: the Land Rover Defender, the Mercedes Class G and of course the Jeep Wrangler.
Your opinion counts ! Take part in our survey �� Your opinion counts ! ��
⁉ The most posed questions
Discover all the most frequently asked questions about 4 × 4 vehicles.
What is the best 4 × 4 in the world ?
The 4 × 4 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is undoubtedly the best 4 × 4 in the world in 2023. Due to its rechargeable hybrid version and its very low fuel consumption (4L per 100 km), it is the most coveted motor wheel on the market. Comfortable both on the road and mountains and knows how to delight its holders. Its atypical design is recognizable among all. Only downside, its price which remains fairly high at € 89,500. To discover urgently.
What is the difference between a 4 × 4 and a SUV ?
The 4 × 4 is an all-terrain vehicle equipped with an all-wheel drive allowing four wheels to receive engine torque. The SUV is an all-terrain vehicle with a more modern design, equipped with an all-wheel drive and providing greater height compared to the ground.
What is the best 4 × 4 in all terrain ?
The best 4 × 4 in all terrain is the Land Rover Discovery Sport. This vehicle is equipped with 19 -inch wheels, ventilated disc brakes at the front and rear, a helicoid springs suspension and gas shock absorbers at the front and rear. Among other references in all terrain, we can cite the Land Rover Defender, the Jeep Wrangler, the Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG, the Suzuki Jimny.
What are the best 4 × 4 to face the snow ?
| Position | Brand | Model | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dacia | Duster Blue DCI 4×4 | From 19,290 € |
| 2 | Suzuki | Jimny | From 20,490 € |
| 3 | Fiat | Panda 4×4 Cross III | From 19 190 € |
| 4 | Jeep | Renegade | From 24,650 € |
| 5 | Land Rover | Defend | From € 57,600 |
| 6 | Jeep | WRANGLER 4XE | From € 68,200 |
| 7 | Volvo | XC 40 B4 AWD | From € 44,300 |
| 8 | Mini | Countryman Cooper S All 4 | From € 38,500 |
| 9 | Subaru | Forest | From € 39,990 |
| 10 | Mazda | CX-5 2.2 184 4×4 | From € 45,850 |
What is the best 4 × 4 mountain ?
For the writing of Vivacar, the Best of 4 × 4 mountain is undoubtedly the Dacia Duster In four -wheel drive version, namely the 1.5 DCI four -cylinder of 115 hp, of course. For its incomparable value for money, of course, but not only. It is his behavior on mountain roads that makes the champion of versatile cars.
Indeed, the Dacia Duster is comfortable on the snowy roads both uphill, thanks to its all -wheel drive, of course, but also downhill thanks to its light weight (1,260 kg). Suddenly, he has a lot of less problem of braking stability than a heavier car. The Dacia Duster also benefits from a shortened box, the first of which allows you to climb almost everywhere everywhere. According to most of its users who live in the mountain pastures, there is no better. It is no coincidence that many rescuers in the mountains we choose.
Why equip your 4 × 4 snow tires in winter ?
For the motor skills of a car to operate, it must above all be connected to the road by tires that adhere to the ground whatever the conditions. But the Best 4 × 4 in the world cannot get away with road tires, Especially if they are planned for summer. It is therefore necessary to go through winter tires, whose gum does not harden below 7 degrees, and whose sculptures are specially studied to offer the maximum of motor skills.
What are the best tires to equip your 4 × 4 this winter ?
Vivacar.FR tested the 5 most effective tire models to equip your 4 -wheel drive:
Nokian WR SUV 4
It is the winter tire par excellence, ultra effective in extreme road conditions, especially in the mountains. On the other hand, dry roads are not its privileged playground ..
Pirelli Scorpion Winter
It is the opposite of Nokian: the Pirelli Scorpion Winter tire is one of the best on the road and highway in normal conditions, but to be avoided in ski resorts.
Michelin Latitude Alpine La2
Well suited to powerful large 4 × 4, this tire has the advantage of being effective both on snow and on dry roads.
Dunlop Winter Sport 5 SUV
Very good grip on wet roads. Good handling on the snow.
Continental WinterContact TS 850p
The Andros trophy pilots have adopted it, that is to say if it is effective on snowy roads.
Why adapt chains and nails to the tires of your all -terrain vehicle ?
If winter tires, or “contact”, improve the motor skills of 4 × 4, the chains are even more recommendable when the roads are really snowy. But beware, the ideal is to mount them on the four wheels, since this equipment must be installed on the motors.
Even more effective, but more expensive, and therefore Reserved for those who must absolutely ride in the snow, The studded tires are formidable. But with such a ride, it is absolutely necessary to avoid rolling long on snowy roads, at the risk of losing your nails there.
Anne-Charlotte Laugier
Anne-Charlotte Laugier, journalist, blogger and novelist (Ramsay).
Top 10 of the best 4x4s: here are the last real crosses
Certainly the best price ratio / market crossing capacities. Renault, at the origin of the revival of Dacia, launched the Duster in 2010. The second generation, launched in 2018, retains what made the success of the first Duster: its simple technical base, its contained weight and its canon prices. From 21.200 euros in 4×4, with the TCE 130 petrol !
Here, apart from the motors shared with the Renault range, the technology is reduced: no short box, but an effective all -wheel drive. If the tires are suitable, it is difficult to follow even for seasoned franchisers. Reverse of the medal, his behavior is of another age and its general summary approval.
Fiat Panda 4×4 / Panda Cross
Here is a must of mountainous regions. Since the very first Fiat Panda, all have been entitled to their 4×4 version. In addition to its all -wheel drive, the Panda 4×4 benefits from specific, enhanced suspension settings of a shortcut box staging. And above all, from his bilge weight allowing him to show up to many SUVs in the snow.
Still stronger, the Cross version wins a differential blockage, additional base protections and the suspensions are enhanced by 1 cm from the “simple” 4×4. Increased attack and leak angles allow it to literally pass everywhere. From 16.€ 290 in 4×4, 2.€ 500 more for the Panda Cross.
Jeep Wrangler
The heir to the legendary Jeep Willy Military was born under Wrangler’s name in 1987. Largely civilized in the meantime, the size and the weight have stopped growing but the spirit of the car has remained intact, just like its look: always the same playful all-terrain, and minimalist.
The Wrangler is offered in long and short versions. We especially remember the Rubicon variant, the most emblematic of the model, with a short box, blockages of front / rear differentials and disconnectable stabilizing bars to increase the travel of suspensions. From 47.050 € in three doors, count 8.000 € more in the Rubicon.
LADA 4X4 (ex-niva)
Alas, Lada Niva, simply renamed 4×4, is no longer available in France or most of our European neighbors. Bankruptcy importers and Malus CO2 did not help his survival. However, this icon launched in 1977 is still pursuing its career in its country of origin.
It is to the Russian automobile what class G or Defender are to our Western countries. Except that here, no technological refinement. Let us simply note that ABS has been standard since 2012 ! Nevertheless, this light, compact and accessible 4×4 quickly became the favorite of all-terrain enthusiasts in Western Europe, from the 80s and well before the fall of the wall. The recipe for its success recalls a certain. Dacia Duster.
Land Rover Defender
The other legend of the all-terrain, at least as emblematic as his Mercedes G-Class G counterpart. But unlike this, the second generation of Defender has very freely revisited its predecessor, the very first Land Rover dating back to 1948.
To defender the second of the name, make way for a brand new monohull structure (sacrilege ?), in aluminium. The look is civilized, too. Fortunately, the main thing is there: always an ultra-effective all-error transmission and a range of short reports from the entry level, at 49.€ 900 (4 cylinders D200 Diesel, 200 hp). Two lengths are available, 90 or 110, as for the original defender.
Land Rover Range Rover
Special mention for the particular case that is the Range Rover. Both king of the SUVs (which would be reductive), and king of crossing. In addition to the Defender, let us recall that Land Rover invented the principle of the rolling palace capable of crossing deserts and swamps.
Angles of attack and leak allow you to crash, 90 cm ford passages are a formality, and the sophisticated field management system Response allows you to adapt to any type of coating. Provided that the tires follow, obviously. From 107.600 euros.
Mercedes G -Class
Launched in 1979, the legendary G -Class remained almost 40 years. Always the same rustic platform, barely modernized over the years. Only the engines followed the rest of the Mercedes range. But since 2018, this second generation has appeared.
Its recognizable silhouette between a thousand has evolved very little, but the chassis is new. More comfortable and rigorous on the road, while preserving its authentic all-terrain skills. For 111.950 € minimum, with the V8 of 422 hp of the G 500 ! We are especially waiting for a future 4×4², enhanced, enlarged variant and equipped with gantry bridges. There, class G will be the absolute tool.
Nissan Navara at32
The Navara AT32 is a limited series from a partnership between Nissan and the Icelandic preparer Arctic Trucks (hence the acronym). And 32 ? With reference to the diameter of the tire wheels included.
On this somewhat special Navara, the ground clearance was enhanced by 20 cm, the foundations are reinforced and the “more” version, even more extreme, is entitled to a front bridge block and a snorkel, thus authorizing the passages of for 80 cm. Please note, only 25 Navara AT32 were distributed in France, sold more than 58.000 €.
Suzuki Jimny
Jimny is also comfortable in Crapahut that he is clumsy on Macadam. Its vocation, these are the roads. Barely over a ton, this fourth generation cultivates its DNA of real rustic adventurer. With vintage wins voluntary at the Mercedes G -Class G !
Not very comfortable or efficient, it shows real talents as soon as the ground climbs. Its all -wheel drive is led by a small 1.5 L essence of 102 hp, alas penalized by an important penalty which condemns his career in France. Remains an opportunity.
Toyota Land Cruiser
Talking about the Land Cruiser as a unique model would be a mistake, since Toyota has developed a very rich range of all-terrain. In France, the current generation (the twelfth since the first BJs of the 1950s !) is available from 38.600 euros with a 177 hp diesel, in three doors.
Under its cossu SUV air, the Land Cruiser remained a real adventurer: no monohull, but a strong scale chassis, a range of short reports and a blocking of bridges. Traction and motor skills are served by sharp electronic management, all in almost luxurious comfort. like a range, but cheaper.
Dacia Duster
Certainly the best price ratio / market crossing capacities. Renault, at the origin of the revival of Dacia, launched the Duster in 2010. The second generation, launched in 2018, retains what made the success of the first Duster: its simple technical base, its contained weight and its canon prices. From 21.200 euros in 4×4, with the TCE 130 petrol !
Here, apart from the motors shared with the Renault range, the technology is reduced: no short box, but an effective all -wheel drive. If the tires are suitable, it is difficult to follow even for seasoned franchisers. Reverse of the medal, his behavior is of another age and its general summary approval.
Fiat Panda 4×4 / Panda Cross
Here is a must of mountainous regions. Since the very first Fiat Panda, all have been entitled to their 4×4 version. In addition to its all -wheel drive, the Panda 4×4 benefits from specific, enhanced suspension settings of a shortcut box staging. And above all, from his bilge weight allowing him to show up to many SUVs in the snow.
Still stronger, the Cross version wins a differential blockage, additional base protections and the suspensions are enhanced by 1 cm from the “simple” 4×4. Increased attack and leak angles allow it to literally pass everywhere. From 16.€ 290 in 4×4, 2.€ 500 more for the Panda Cross.
Jeep Wrangler
The heir to the legendary Jeep Willy Military was born under Wrangler’s name in 1987. Largely civilized in the meantime, the size and the weight have stopped growing but the spirit of the car has remained intact, just like its look: always the same playful all-terrain, and minimalist.
The Wrangler is offered in long and short versions. We especially remember the Rubicon variant, the most emblematic of the model, with a short box, blockages of front / rear differentials and disconnectable stabilizing bars to increase the travel of suspensions. From 47.050 € in three doors, count 8.000 € more in the Rubicon.
LADA 4X4 (ex-niva)
Alas, Lada Niva, simply renamed 4×4, is no longer available in France or most of our European neighbors. Bankruptcy importers and Malus CO2 did not help his survival. However, this icon launched in 1977 is still pursuing its career in its country of origin.
It is to the Russian automobile what class G or Defender are to our Western countries. Except that here, no technological refinement. Let us simply note that ABS has been standard since 2012 ! Nevertheless, this light, compact and accessible 4×4 quickly became the favorite of all-terrain enthusiasts in Western Europe, from the 80s and well before the fall of the wall. The recipe for its success recalls a certain. Dacia Duster.
Land Rover Defender
The other legend of the all-terrain, at least as emblematic as his Mercedes G-Class G counterpart. But unlike this, the second generation of Defender has very freely revisited its predecessor, the very first Land Rover dating back to 1948.
To defender the second of the name, make way for a brand new monohull structure (sacrilege ?), in aluminium. The look is civilized, too. Fortunately, the main thing is there: always an ultra-effective all-error transmission and a range of short reports from the entry level, at 49.€ 900 (4 cylinders D200 Diesel, 200 hp). Two lengths are available, 90 or 110, as for the original defender.
Land Rover Range Rover
Special mention for the particular case that is the Range Rover. Both king of the SUVs (which would be reductive), and king of crossing. In addition to the Defender, let us recall that Land Rover invented the principle of the rolling palace capable of crossing deserts and swamps.
Angles of attack and leak allow you to crash, 90 cm ford passages are a formality, and the sophisticated field management system Response allows you to adapt to any type of coating. Provided that the tires follow, obviously. From 107.600 euros.
Mercedes G -Class
Launched in 1979, the legendary G -Class remained almost 40 years. Always the same rustic platform, barely modernized over the years. Only the engines followed the rest of the Mercedes range. But since 2018, this second generation has appeared.
Its recognizable silhouette between a thousand has evolved very little, but the chassis is new. More comfortable and rigorous on the road, while preserving its authentic all-terrain skills. For 111.950 € minimum, with the V8 of 422 hp of the G 500 ! We are especially waiting for a future 4×4², enhanced, enlarged variant and equipped with gantry bridges. There, class G will be the absolute tool.
Nissan Navara at32
The Navara AT32 is a limited series from a partnership between Nissan and the Icelandic preparer Arctic Trucks (hence the acronym). And 32 ? With reference to the diameter of the tire wheels included.
On this somewhat special Navara, the ground clearance was enhanced by 20 cm, the foundations are reinforced and the “more” version, even more extreme, is entitled to a front bridge block and a snorkel, thus authorizing the passages of for 80 cm. Please note, only 25 Navara AT32 were distributed in France, sold more than 58.000 €.
Suzuki Jimny
Jimny is also comfortable in Crapahut that he is clumsy on Macadam. Its vocation, these are the roads. Barely over a ton, this fourth generation cultivates its DNA of real rustic adventurer. With vintage wins voluntary at the Mercedes G -Class G !
Not very comfortable or efficient, it shows real talents as soon as the ground climbs. Its all -wheel drive is led by a small 1.5 L essence of 102 hp, alas penalized by an important penalty which condemns his career in France. Remains an opportunity.
Toyota Land Cruiser
Talking about the Land Cruiser as a unique model would be a mistake, since Toyota has developed a very rich range of all-terrain. In France, the current generation (the twelfth since the first BJs of the 1950s !) is available from 38.600 euros with a 177 hp diesel, in three doors.
Under its cossu SUV air, the Land Cruiser remained a real adventurer: no monohull, but a strong scale chassis, a range of short reports and a blocking of bridges. Traction and motor skills are served by sharp electronic management, all in almost luxurious comfort. like a range, but cheaper.
01/06/2020 at 10:06 am, modified on 02/06/2020 at 10:47
Let us recall with any useful end that the crossovers and SUVs that swarm on the market are not intended for all-terrain. Their skills to get out of bitumen are generally limited to comfortably evolving in all of which, without ambition of crossing. Besides, no manufacturer has never really claimed the opposite, except for a few exceptions (reproaching them is therefore as useless as to denigrate a Ferrari for his little trunk: an SUV has never claimed to be a adventurraer). But the adventurers, the real, the pure and hard capable of transfers of bridges in the rock and to cover themselves with mud always exist. What are the best all-terrain people of the moment ?
On smartphone, we invite you to consult this slideshow in landscape mode (or in full screen mode) to read the description linked to each model.