The 10 best 4x4’s of the last 25 years

[Mike Nel]

I have come to a point now that when I see a D3/4 in the convoy when going 4x4’ing ( not overlanding, but I am starting to think twice now as well), I turn around.

[Mad Manny]

The Fussel brothers (of Bob Fussel & Associates) tell a story of a group of them doing a Botswana/Namibia tour & the tour operator saying "No Discovery's".
So Andrew Fussell had to stay at home.

[icemanza]

I should start taking pics of broken Jeeps and Toyota's and randomly posting them to show how they also struggle. Always one person who sees a broken Disco and slams them. I had mine for 5 years and never had an issue. Never got stuck and recovered many other vehicles.

Sent from my SM-N950F using Tapatalk

[Mike Nel]

Thats not fair. A lot more Jeeps and Toyotas go 4x4íng.

[icemanza]

Because they are cheap and easy to fix with their old technology.

Sent from my SM-N950F using Tapatalk

[XJ Junkie]

Please explain how any hundred year old SFA is better than IFS.

That’s like asking if a car is stronger than a truck.

Because I can tell you no SFA unmodded has ever beaten my previous IFS off road.

Like a D4? It depends on where you went & who you went with. Because otherwise it’s like walking into a gay bar & then bragging that you’re the only guy with a girlfriend.

[icemanza]

Well. I have been out with Jeeps, Toyotas, Fords, Hummers. Most had the typical mods like 33s and lifts. I never had an issue on the obstacles and did them easily. But we did have to recover a few in the groups. One outing was with a jeep club and my D4 was the only one not to fail an obstacle. My experience clearly better than others or maybe I am just that much better a driver than the posers.

Sent from my SM-N950F using Tapatalk

[FredoN]

Great list! I love seeing enthusiasts highlight the vehicles that truly embody 4x4 capability over the years. The Jeep Wrangler TJ/JK/JL is absolutely iconic—its combination of solid axles, rugged build, and aftermarket support keeps it relevant even decades after its release. One thing I always find fascinating about these “thoroughbred” 4x4s is how versatile they can be, not just on trails but for overlanding and extended adventures.

When we talk about vehicles like the Wrangler, or other classics like the 60 Series Cruiser or the Series Land Rovers, what really stands out is the freedom they offer to explore off the beaten path. And let’s be honest, off-roading is only part of the experience. Being able to set up camp almost anywhere elevates the adventure, which is where a good rooftop tent comes in. Pairing any of these legendary 4x4s with a rooftop tent turns your vehicle into a mobile base camp—you can pull off a dirt track, climb a hill, and wake up to a sunrise you’d never see from a standard campground.

I also appreciate the emphasis on solid axles over independent suspension. Comfort is nice, sure, but when you’re tackling serious off-road terrain, solid axles give you durability, articulation, and reliability that independent setups just can’t match. That’s why so many of the vehicles listed have remained relevant over the decades—they weren’t designed just for paved roads; they were made to go anywhere.

Another interesting point is limiting the list to vehicles that never had a 2WD variant. It really does separate true off-road champions from everyday SUVs that have been adapted for light trails. This approach really respects the heritage and design intent of these machines.

It’s exciting to see the mix of old and newer models here. Some vehicles, like the FJ series or the early Wrangler models, carry that raw, no-nonsense off-road charm. The newer Wranglers keep the spirit alive while adding a touch of modern tech. Combining these vehicles with gear like a rooftop tent gives adventurers both the thrill of exploration and the comfort of having a reliable, mobile shelter.

In short, this list is a great reminder that the past 25 years have delivered some truly remarkable 4x4s. Pairing one of these vehicles with a rooftent or tente de toit pour 4x4 transforms any trip from just driving into a full adventure experience, and I can’t recommend it enough for anyone looking to get serious about overlanding.

[BushWacker]

... in 25 years time,
only one or two
will still be on the list ...