For road trippers, a decent 4x4 vehicle is the ideal travel partner to span the uncharted terrains of the variously diverse Indian landscape. A four-wheel-drive is a highly dependable vehicle that guarantees you power and control on the road. Whether it is a long road vacation or an off-roading adventure, you are good to go with a 4x4. From the sandy dunes of Rajasthan to the lush terrain of the Western Ghats and the untamed mountains of Ladakh, the vehicle comes with the potential to adapt indiscriminately to all terrains. We have curated a list of the top five 4x4 vehicles which you can get in 2025 and expect it to strike the ideal mix of toughness, performance, and adventure preparedness.
As the newfound obsession and wise preference of thrill-seekers, the Mahindra Thar has earned a reputation for being a dependable truck. Its most recent model is a favourite among both the city riders as well as the explorers as it comes perfectly balanced with modern functionality and a durable design. There are two engine options available: a 2.0 litre gasoline engine that produces 150 horsepower and a 2.2 litre diesel engine that produces 130 horsepower. The Thar can comfortably handle muddy routes as it depicted in its advertisements, rocky terrains and steep inclines, owing to its strong 4WD system and low-range transfer case. With characteristics like drafty ground clearance and the ability to wade through water, it's easy to see why the Thar remains a popular choice among car enthusiasts ever since its launch.
The Toyota Fortuner has over time made itself synonymous with concepts like dependability and durability. With a 2.8 litre diesel engine which is just appropriate for lengthy road trips and off-road activities, the car is one that generates a strong 201 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. The vehicle comes equipped with a low-range transmission in its 4WD system improving its performance on extremely challenging terrains. In addition, you can also enjoy the assistance of features like downhill control and hill assist that give you more control and stability. Adventurers looking for a tough SUV with luxuries aplenty and sophistication just on point tend to love the Fortuner. Toyota's after-sales services are also something that people look forward to.
The Jeep Compass Trailhawk offers a premium feel and the opportunity to venture off the beaten path for those who desire it. It has a 2.0 litre diesel engine that produces 170 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. It also has Jeep's renowned Active Drive Low 4x4 technology, which offers excellent control and traction. With features like hill descent control, skid plates, and increased ground clearance, the Trailhawk—which was created for off-road enthusiasts—is perfect for navigating rugged terrain. It's the ideal fusion of off-road toughness and urban comfort.
For individuals who hatch a strong desire for adventures, the Force Gurkha is more than just an off-road vehicle. Its robust 5-speed manual gearbox is combined with a 2.6 litre diesel engine that generates upto 90 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque. The Gurkha's remarkable 700 mm water-wading depth is quite bonkers in the economic range alongside its ladder-frame chassis as well as the front and rear locking differentials that allow it to withstand harsh off-road situations.
The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross is a multipurpose vehicle that combines the off-road adventurer's heart with the utility of a pickup truck. Its 1.9 litre diesel engine generates 161 horsepower and 360 Nm of torque, and its shift-on-the-fly 4WD technology makes it simple to transition between 2WD and 4WD. With its large cargo bed, high ground clearance, and sturdy construction, the V-Cross is an excellent choice for off-road camping excursions as well as transporting equipment for a weekend break.