Compare the best small 4x4s
High-quality small 4x4 cars from rated and reviewed dealers
Best small 4x4s of 2024
You don’t have to be a die-hard off-road fanatic to find a 4x4 useful. If you live out in the sticks, then four-wheel drive can be a lifesaver in wintry weather. It also makes a big difference if you have a caravan, horsebox or boat to tow, as it helps you to pull away without spinning the wheels.
These days many four-wheel drives only send power to all four wheels when needed, so the fuel economy penalty compared with a two-wheel drive isn’t as great as you might think.
SUVs come in all shapes and sizes, and the best small 4x4s can be just as capable as larger SUVs off road, but will cost much less to buy and run.
Here’s our top 10 small four-wheel drive cars, as chosen by Carwow’s team of expert car reviewers.
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BMW’s latest X1 has really grown up — the cabin is far roomier and classier than it used to be, and it feels more like one of BMW’s bigger cars to drive now, certainly compared to previous versions. You’ll need to spend extra to get a four-wheel drive model — go for one of the plug-in hybrids or the racy X1 23i xDrive. Or you could get the all-electric, all-wheel drive iX1, which boasts a range of up to 287 miles. Whichever model you go for, the X1 feels like a proper BMW, despite being the least expensive SUV in the range.
If you want a petrol- or diesel-powered four-wheel drive XC40, you'll have to look to the used market these days. But if you're looking at new models the electric versions are still available, with a name change to EX40. There’s an improved two-motor, four-wheel drive electric version with a maximum range of 343 miles. It’s bonkers quick too, thanks to 408hp, but the cabin does look a bit on the cheap side for the price. That said, it's nice and roomy inside and very comfortable whether you're driving around town or heading out on the motorway. And the one thing you really can count on in a Volvo is an extensive round of driver assistance technology, which is some of the best in the business.
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The Evoque comes with that special blend of style, luxury and off-road ability that Range Rover packs in all its models. However, this is arguably the most fashion-focused of the lot, with a slinky body style and a lovely interior. Don't think it's not capable in the muddy stuff, though. Despite the glitz and glam it will best all but the most serious off-roaders, then look perfectly at home driving you to your local Waitrose for the weekly shop. It’s not cheap though, and you will have to shell out extra for the latest tech.
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What's good
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The Formentor is only barely a 4x4 — shape-wise, it’s really just a hatchback with lifts in its shoes, and you have to get the powerful 310hp engine to get four-wheel drive. It’s really handsome, though, and has a cracking interior. It's way more fun to drive than you might expect, because Cupra was born from SEAT's performance division, so all of its models aim to put a smile on your face. Plug-in hybrid models are the most frugal – if you keep the batteries topped up – but it’s the petrol model that’s the fun one. It's essentially a hot hatch on stilts.
2024
Urban Living Award
Highly Commended
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This small 4x4 offers added security in slippery driving conditions and sips away on fuel thanks to its efficient hybrid engine. Seriously, it's one of the most efficient cars you can buy – we've seen 72mpg out in the real world, with a mix of driving situations. Impressive. Luggage space is good too, as is the build quality. Rough roads can upset the ride and that efficient engine can get vocal at high revs, so it's not perfect. Oh, and be aware that only the top-spec versions get four-wheel drive, so if you want this you'll have to budget a bit extra.
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There’s nothing ‘mini’ about the new MINI Countryman. It’s more ‘maxi’ than ‘mini’, with much more cabin space than the old model. That’s especially noticeable in the back of the car, which has a lot more legroom than before. The boot is bigger, too, which makes the new Countryman a lot more practical for a growing family. Most versions are front-wheel drive, but the ALL4 models are 4x4s and will cope well with bad weather and light off-road driving.
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Alfa’s first compact SUV comes with four-wheel drive if you go for the plug-in hybrid model, as it uses an electric motor to drive the rear wheels. We wouldn’t try going too far off-road with it — it’s just not that sort of SUV — but it’ll cope fine with unmade roads or the odd grassy car park. Looks great on the outside, and the cabin is gorgeous too, but the hybrid system can be a bit clunky and it isn’t that nice to drive. It's a bit more style than substance, if we're honest, so consider how important that is to you.
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There are small 4x4s, then there’s the Suzuki Ignis. This car is so tiny it could almost fit in your back pocket. The 4x4 versions cost more than the front-wheel-drive models, but even so the Ignis Allgrip 4x4 is cheap compared with most four-wheel drives. It’s a hoot to drive, too, with a noisy but willing engine and tidy handling. The ride is bouncy, though, and alternatives are quieter on the motorway. Being so small, the Ignis is a doddle to park, and the cabin is surprisingly roomy for a car that takes up the same space as a roller skate.
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There aren’t many small 4x4s out there that can compete with the Duster when it comes to interior space and rugged off-road ability in this price range. It isn’t packed with tech, but you get most of the basics included as standard, and it really is a fantastic value option. Sure, the interior doesn't necessarily stack up with most other new cars, but when you see the price, do you care? If you're looking for a car that will support an active lifestyle, and one that you won't mind getting a bit dirty, the Duster is an excellent choice. That doesn't mean it's cheap and nasty inside, though. If you want an affordable car for the school run, it's still a brilliant choice. A new and improved model is just around the corner.
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If you’re serious about your off-roading then the Jeep Renegade is one of the most capable in its class. It is reasonably efficient, too, but you will have to put up with a noisy cabin at motorway speeds and some cheap-feeling interior materials. If you can do that, you'll get a cool-looking little 4x4 that's sure to get you wherever you need to go – whether that's dropping the kids off at school or taking the dog for a walk halfway up a mountain.
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