Compare the best cheap 4x4s
High-quality affordable 4x4 cars from rated and reviewed dealers
Cheapest 4x4s of 2024
If you want to head off the beaten track, a 4x4 is a great option, because they are great at tackling rough roads or getting you out of a tricky spot in adverse weather conditions. Some luxury 4x4s can be very expensive, but there are plenty of options that won’t leave a big dent in your wallet.
Here, our expert reviews team has put together a list of the best affordable 4x4s, and a few that don’t have four-wheel drive, but do come with decent ground clearance and rugged bodywork that can stand up to a bit of a beating if required…
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The Skoda Karoq might be small and rather unexciting to look at, but look past that and it’s actually a fantastic SUV. It’s really well put together and comfortable to drive. Opt for the SE L model and you get clever rear seats that can be folded all over the place to make space for people or things as required. What’s more, this trim is available with a diesel engine and four-wheel drive, though this is quite a bit more expensive than the standard model.
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This list is focused on value for money, so it’s perhaps no surprise that the top two spots are taken up by Skodas. If the Karoq is a bit small, the Kodiaq could be the answer. Like the Karoq there’s a four-wheel drive option, but this car also comes with seating for up to seven people, and there’s loads of space inside to accommodate them.
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If you’re looking for a city-dwelling family SUV, the Suzuki Vitara isn’t the best option out there for the price. However, if you need an affordable SUV with four-wheel drive, it’s actually pretty good value. You get a decent amount of kit and a practical cabin, but it does feel quite cheap inside.
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The Suzuki Ignis might be small but it gets chunky ‘Honey I shrunk the off-roader’ styling. It’s not the most comfortable car, and the interior and on-board tech feel a touch dated, but it’s a quirky choice with genuine off-road ability. You’ll need the top-spec trim with AllGrip, which pushes the price up a bit, but you’ll still get change from £20,000, making it even better value than the Vitara if you don’t need the extra space.
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If you want a rugged 4x4 with space for four, then the Dacia Duster is a great choice. It may be basic inside, but you still get a decent infotainment system and more passenger and luggage space than anything else at this price point. Watch this space, because a new-look model is coming in 2024…
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The Nissan Qashqai is a hugely popular family SUV because it’s smart, spacious and great value for money. Going for the 4x4 version pushes the price up, and it lacks the rugged body modifications and raised ride height that would make it formidable off-road. However, if you live in a rural area and need a car that won’t get stuck on a mid-winter school run, it’s a great choice.
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The Sportage is one of the most popular SUVs on sale thanks to its great cabin, tech and hybrid engines. This family-friendly SUV also comes with an optional four-wheel drive system, proving you don’t have to make a left-field choice to get a car that’s capable off the beaten track. The Sportage’s infotainment system is a bit fiddly to use, though, and it’s not as comfortable as similar alternatives.
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The Citroen Berlingo is a no-nonsense family car with loads of storage. And although it’s not offered with four-wheel drive, top-spec models have an option called Advanced Grip Control, which is essentially an advanced traction control system that can help in low grip conditions. It doesn’t transform the Berlingo into a Land Rover Defender alternative, but it’s useful assistance on snow- or mud-covered country roads.
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The Dacia Sandero Stepway is front-wheel drive-only. However, it has rugged styling, with plastic mouldings on the side to protect the bodywork and bash plates beneath in case you hit any rocks. It’s also one of the most spacious small cars you can buy, and comfortable to drive, too. Its poor Euro NCAP safety score might put you off, though.
2025
Urban Living Award
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The Toyota Yaris Cross is a fantastic little city car. It’s got an incredibly economical hybrid engine and a surprisingly useful boot for a car of its size. The raised ride height is useful for visibility when driving around town, but it also means that you shouldn’t get stuck if you’re feeling a little adventurous. It’s also front-wheel drive though, so don’t get too adventurous…
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