OVMS' Best 4x4 of 2024: Top Picks for Unstoppable Off-Road Ability

Why You Need a Powerful 4x4

A capable 4x4 vehicle is an essential for off-road enthusiasts. At OVMS we're no stranger to a muddy field, so we know just how crucial all wheel drive and a strong engine can be. Whether you need to tow a trailer, caravan or agricultural machinery, cars with four wheel drive like the Land Rover Defender and Isuzu D-Max are invaluable. Come along as we discuss out best four wheel drive cars and pick up trucks of 2024.

Best Off-Roaders of 2024

#1: Isuzu D-Max

The Isuzu D-Max is our go-to pick up truck here at OVMS - and for good reason! In our experience, the D-Max is reliable, comfortable and well worth considering if you frequently go off roading. Thanks to its all wheel drive and multiple configuration options, we know that whatever we throw at the D-Max, it won't let us down.

We've covered the Isuzu D-Max in detail before, but its versatility can't be understated. A new Isuzu D-Max comes packed with all the modern extras you'd expect, and is no slouch. As our best 4x4 pick up truck, we're proud to offer the new Isuzu D-Max here at OVMS, we even offer an additional £1000 on any model when you Part Exchange with us.

Contact us at OVMS to enquire about a new Isuzu D-Max.

#2: Land Rover Defender

The 2024 Defender is the latest in a long line of Land Rovers that excels at off-roading as much as driving on a motorway. Our team recently reviewed a new Defender 90, and were particularly impressed with the softer suspension, improved turning circle and truly impressive acceleration considering its weight.

The Defender has years of legacy, and whilst the previous generation may have been considered a tad "spartan" with its functional and rugged approach, the new Defender bridges the gap between luxury SUV and rural workhorse. There's even talk of an Electric Vehicle Defender in the coming months.

We'll be keeping our eyes peeled on that one.

#3: Toyota Hilux

The Toyota Hilux is known among some circles as one of the most indestructible vehicles still in production today. It's more than capable off road, and commands attention when driven in a city centre. The Hilux is available with either manual or automatic gearboxes, with all wheel drive across the whole range. The different variants cover double cab, extra cab and single cab, so the Hilux is as versatile as you need.

Honourable Mentions:

Mercedes G Class

Whilst the G-Wagen retains its status as an off roader, it offers perhaps the most luxurious interior of all the vehicles on our list. Because of its modern luxury persona, we see fewer and fewer of them towing trailers and going off road, and like so many manufacturers, we're anticipating a PHEV or similar in the years to come.

Key Features for Unbeatable Off-Road Ability

What makes an 4x4 SUV truly great? Is it the price? The speed? Our take on it is that a vehicle that's been designed for multiple use-cases, be it in farming, agriculture or just for the huge boot space, should be able to do all those things. From the Isuzu D-Max to the Land Rover Defender, off roading is a core design consideration for 4x4s - so what makes them so good at it?

Ground Clearance

When taking a vehicle off the beaten track, you need to make sure that your vehicle doesn't get damaged. A pick up truck like the Isuzu D-Max boasts a ground clearance of around 220mm, meaning that you can get over rugged terrain without risking bottoming-out.

Four Wheel Drive System

Most road cars are front wheel drive, and any racer will tell you that rear wheel drive will get you around a track fastest. 4x4s provide power to each wheel individually, so no traction is lost across all four wheels.

All Terrain Tyres

4x4s need to be able to get over steep inclines, over rugged terrain and still be able to drive on UK roads. All-Terrain Tyres allow 4x4 SUVs to transition between the two, as so many rural drivers do.

Other 4x4 Considerations

It's not just the terrain-busting capabilities that draws people to a 4x4, it's the pulling power that vehicles of this size offer. All wheel drive helps these vehicles to drag loads of up to 3500kg - the maximum for most UK licenses!