Best Four-Wheel-Drive SUVs of 2022

What Should the Best 4-Wheel-Drive SUVs Be Like?

If you are shopping for a capable sports ute, here are some things to look out for when choosing:

• Highly proficient off-road: The highest scoring offerings in our reviews are exceptional at plowing through muddy waters and over rocky ground, with their systems finding grip in even the most treacherous environments. Not all of those we score highly cost a lot to buy, but sometimes a low price means less capability.
• A wealth of ground clearance: In order to be able to safely navigate boulders and other obstacles without damaging the vehicle, you’ll find a raised ride height on all the entrants to our catalog. This also helps with visibility on the road and makes it easier to spot problems up ahead.
• Powerful engines: In contrast to regular vehicles, most of the best 4x4 SUVs that we have rated highly are fitted with motors that have plenty of power and torque to help overcome the weight of the various components that improve versatility off-road. However, some smaller alternatives like crossovers generally have lower outputs, but this contributes to making them cheap.

Pros

• Versatile capability
• Plenty of space
• More practical than regular cars
• Good safety ratings
• Numerous optional extras

Cons

• Typically poor mpg ratings
• More expensive than regular automobiles
• Numb handling

Top-Rated 4x4 SUVs

There is an extensive range of variants to choose from in the US, with numerous automakers each providing their own idea of the ideal SUV. 4WD systems vary depending on the manufacturer, but with such a large number of different approaches, it can be difficult to tell which suits you best. If you’re in the market for one of the best 4x4s, our comparisons section at the end of each review will make the choice easier. We’ll discuss the highs and lows of each, but all of our favorites have excellent off-road chops, good towing capacity, comfortable suspension, and a pleasant cabin. The reliability to return years of carefree mileage is also important.

Specifications

Many different types of SUVs with 4-wheel-drive are marketed to satisfy your adventurous tastes. Some use a simple but effective permanent four-wheel-drive system, while others have technology that lets you switch between 4x2 and 4x4 configuration, which aids with maneuverability on the road, fuel economy, and tire wear. Most seat five with ease, sometimes more, but some are meant for fewer passengers, and the Jeep Wrangler stands out as one of the best off-roaders of all time, although it doesn’t have a lot of interior space. Most are gas-powered, but some turbodiesel power plants exist too. V8s are popular, as are V6s and sometimes turbocharged four-cylinders as well.

What to Buy?

Numerous distinct models are available, and if the option you want doesn’t have all the features you’re after as standard, our overviews cover the optional extras and increased abilities of higher trims too. This allows you to get an idea of if the specific trim you’re after can be tailored to your tastes. Various engines, seat upholstery choices, styling additions, safety features, and creature comforts are available on a wide range of trim levels. We also discuss everything from 2019 to upcoming models for 2023, so even used cars are catered for comprehensively.

FAQs