Have you ever thought why every experienced car owner prefers an 4WD over 2WD?
4WD improves traction in dangerous driving conditions, such as snow, ice, rocks, and other scenarios that can make control difficult. By engaging both sets of wheels, traction and control improve. The additional weight contributes to a better grip on the road. 4WD is great for those who like off-roading.
That is because 4WD enhances the comfort of the driver even when driving on long distances. Even if there are conditions such as snow, or rocks in front of a 4WD vehicle, it adjusts according to the situation and provides a firm grip and good traction. As the car has an additional weight, it provides better control when driving long distances.
In the below sections, let us quickly look at the top 9 best 4WD vehicles in Australia.
1. Land Rover Defender
The Land Rover Defender’s latest model was launched in February 2021. The latest model was influenced by the original model from the 1960s and features a stylish throwback style. The handling of the car is surprising whether driving on both on and off-road roads. The new land rover air suspension smoothly glides over bumps while the chassis maintains its composure in all types of road conditions.
The car is available in both gasoline and diesel engines. There are three outputs of a 3.0L diesel engine offered with engine power in the ranges of 147kW to 220kW. and the two outputs of the petrol engine are offered which are the 294 kW six-cylinder P400 and the 421 kW P300.
The Land Rover Defender interior was made with functionality and comfort in mind. The polymers are robust and long-lasting. A tough cloth is used in designing the dashboard and the doors. The cost of the car is around $85,000 and you can further customize it according to your choice which costs an extra price.
2. Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
The Pajero Sport is one of the most popular car among the other SUVs in Australia. Thus it is a super mid-size SUV. However, Pajero Sport is smaller than other SUVs but it can easily adjust 7 passengers in the car.
The chassis constructed for the Pajero Sport is the same as the Triton Ute. This indicates the four-cylinder 2.4Litre diesel engine powers on the road smoothly. But as compared to Triton It has coupled with a brand new 8-speed automatic transmission.
The Pajero Sport engine delivers the car smoothly on the road with great power. It is good in performance if we compare it with the V6-powered SUVs. But it has more mileage than other SUVs with an incredibly low fuel consumption of 8L/100km.
However, The Pajero Sport has a lot of capabilities that make it one of the best mid-size SUV cars. It has the excellent off-road ability with high ground clearance, a lengthy suspension and small overhangs.
3. Toyota HiLux SR5
The Toyota HiLux SR5 is an unmistakable and powerful workhorse that excels in most situations, but in real essence rides better when put to use, whether it is towing 3.5 tonnes with a little weight on the rear axle, rolling over difficult terrain, or any combination of these.
Because most of the competition is phasing out the stick shift option, this car has a 2.8L turbo diesel 6-speed manual or automatic transmission which attracts 4WD car lovers. It has 18-inch alloy wheels and rear differential locks which increase the confidence of the driver when driving in mud and hilly areas.
Toyota HiLux is packed with many features and it is committed to keeping you safe. It comes with a lot of driver safety features including pedestrian recognition, a pre-collision warning system, and traffic sign assistance. The intricate dash and entertainment system, which strangely already appears a little dated, put a dent in its radiance. Overall, it is good enough to be rated as one of the best 4WD vehicle in Australia.
4. Toyota Land Cruiser Prado VX
Toyota provides a lot of comfort in the car which you can clearly say when driving the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. It comes with proper insulation from vibration, rock and branch noises. The accelerating power of the car is being appreciated because of the new 4-cylinder engine. It has now better fuel efficiency than the old models.
It is a strong piece of equipment with excellent traction and ground clearance that can transport you over the majority of difficult terrain routes. The Land Cruiser Prado VX is an off-road vehicle you can completely rely on; thanks to its 19″ alloy wheels, two-speed transfer case, locking rear, centre differentials, and other features. All four Prado versions are equipped with a 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine and a six-speed automated transmission. You may pull up to 3,000 kg with this level of force in confidence. Even the 4wd transmission specialist can give the assurance of that thing.
The inside largely conforms to what you would expect from a more expensive Toyota, but it falls short of the high calibre expected from a Lexus. Tri-zone climate control, leather upholstery, a 9.0″ infotainment screen, and a great audio system with 14 speakers are all included and make it extremely soothing when sitting in the cabin. The cabin is quite roomy and pleasant, and the front seats include leather accents and cooling and heating systems.
5. Isuzu MU-X LS-T
Over time, the Isuzu MU-X has established itself as a well-liked option for hauling, off-roading, and for providing extreme value. The current model’s sticker price has increased substantially, and the vehicle would be out-and-out fun for the family who enjoys outdoor adventures.
With a respectable 3.5-tonne towing capability and a dependable 3.0L turbo diesel 6-speed transmission, it can almost compete with other top-spec vehicles in the class. Even while it doesn’t produce frightening G-force when the throttle is cranked, it nevertheless runs quietly, and comfortably handles both on and off-road.
Isuzu MU-X has a great ground clearance and differential locks set which makes the car a better off-roader vehicle. When it comes to the inside, Isuzu has particularly paid attention to detail, giving a lot of soft-touch surfaces in contrast to most rivals. It appears that they’ve got the balance between digital and analogue operations just right because the integration is quite straightforward. The MU-X interior is very beautiful and the vehicle provides an excellent control and grip while driving even in the mountains.
6. Nissan Patrol Ti-L
The starting price of the Nissan Patrol Ti-L is $90,000, Nissan’s top-of-the-line Ti-L model, which competes with Land Cruisers, has received an aesthetic external makeover. The Land Cruiser is frequently praised by Australian travellers, but this time it would be worthwhile to pay greater attention to the large Nissan SUV.
It has a 5.6-litre V8 engine and a seven-speed automated gearbox, it produces a gratifying growl when the accelerator is depressed. The average fuel usage, despite some concerns about it, is probably about 14 litres per 100 kilometres, and that number reduces even further if you just drive on flat roads.
The Nissan Ti-L is elevated to a whopping 270 mm from the ground to demonstrate its competitive status, and it is equipped with a plethora of off-road features to guarantee a comfortable and secure ride on any surface. Additionally, it can pull a trailer that weighs up to 3.45 tonnes.
The front seats are exceptionally plush and padded, and leather is present on the majority of the interior surfaces that are covered with a dark wood finish.
7. Ford Ranger XLT
The Ford Ranger has just undergone an upgrade and comfortably meets the 4WD demands of a 2022 model after a highly anticipated debut. With the older model holding onto the second-most popular slot in sales, it is still very much alive and well.
The XLT model comes standard with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a 2.0L bi-turbo diesel V6 engine, with an optional 3.0L supercharged engine. The ride is now smoother, quieter, and stronger than before, thus it’s obvious that it has improved.
Ford took care to add several off-road features for various terrain since they are well aware of how Aussies utilise the Ranger. They also did not skimp on the towing capability, which is 3.50 tonnes at your disposal. Rear disc brakes and strong 17-inch alloy wheels round off the package.
The interior of the cabin has been technologically upgraded, and it is immediately apparent when entering. The 10-inch infotainment system is touch-sensitive, Apple CarPlay compatible, and Android Auto compatible. Additionally, your gauge cluster is now entirely digital, giving it a far more current appearance than the less contemporary prior model. Due to clever material use and a 50mm enlargement in both directions, it even seems roomier in the rear.
8. Nissan Pathfinder
One of the greatest and most dependable 4×4 vehicles in Australia is produced by Nissan, a Japanese multinational automaker. The company provides all of its adventures- and travel-loving customers with cutting-edge feature-loaded vehicles to ensure that their off-roading experience is completely hassle-free but unforgettable.
The brand-new 2022 Nissan Pathfinder is stylish from head to toe. Its floating roofline showcases its traditional design, and its strong 3.5L V6 engine and brand-new 9-speed automated gearbox make it ideal for rough Australian roads. Eight persons can be accommodated due to its spacious and roomy design. The icing on the cake is its unique infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto to keep you always linked to the digital world.
9. Jeep Grand Cherokee
For years, this American company has amazed travellers from all over the world, including adventure-loving Australians. They manufacture several 4WD cars that are well worth the extra money. However, this Jeep Grand Cherokee is a technological overload that also offers the highest level of 4WD service and comfort for the occupants.
Due to their outstanding assortment of wheels, they are ideal for a family of seven and guarantee a comfortable drive across a rough Australian road. Additionally, the high-quality LED illumination emits a radiating glow that helps you find your way even in the dark. They radiate refinement in addition to having a 16-way adjustable seat, great interior ambience, up to 2400 litres of cargo space, and a 10-inch touchscreen with a dual-phone connection.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for Australia’s best 4WD, the Pajero Sport is more affordable than the other SUVs and It has more mileage compared to other 4WD.
However, every person takes a different point of view depending on factors that appeal them the most.
The car mechanic can help you to choose the best 4WD car which suits your budget and give you more comfort.
