I’ve limited the list to what has still been in production over the last 25 years because there are so many preceding models that are still very capable even by modern day standards. Examples would be the Willys Jeep, Wagoneer, Toyota FJ40, 60 Series Cruiser, Series Land Rovers, etc, etc, etc.
I tried to do a top 5 list but it wouldn’t be fair to some models of equal capability. It would be easy to do a modern day top 5 because there’s only less than a handful left that can be bought new today.
Naturally, all of these vehicles have solid axles because that’s just how the thing works. Independent suspension is for comfort, not hardcore off-roading.
The other rule applied is that no series of vehicle that was available to the public in 2wd form can be classified as a thoroughbred 4x4.
So here is the list in no particular order:
Jeep Wrangler TJ/JK/JL
This series has gotten better & better which is a lesson that other manufacturers have mostly ignored. All other manufacturers copied the initial concept. It’s currently the best 4x4 & doesn’t have any direct competition.
Range Rover Classic/Vogue
This was a game changing clever vehicle, which even included long arm suspension & the initial classic had the perfect wheelbase. Supremely capable.
Toyota Land Cruiser 70
In all its versions, including the bakkies, the 70 series stuck faithfully to the basics that matter in a 4x4.
Land Rover Defender
All the versions are still the real deal & is the only one that can realistically compete with the Wrangler.
Toyota Land Cruiser 80/105
It just does what it says on the box.
Nissan Patrol SUV & LDV.
Like the Cruiser, it does what it says on the tin, just stronger & with more power.
Jeep Cherokee (pre 2002)
It’s just the daddy of capable SUVs & is the model which all modern unibodies were copied from, minus the capability.
Land Rover Discovery 1 & 2
The next best thing to a Defender & easier to live with. Extremely capable & the last of the proper off-road Discos. There will never be another.
Suzuki SJ & Jimny
Gotta admire Suzuki for sticking with a recipe that nobody else has bothered trying to copy. Fantastic 4wds.
Mercedes G-Wagon (Pre 2018)
Arguably one of the best ever before the JKU. Also, as far as I know they made the only other 4 seater convertible in addition to the Wrangler.
