Best 4x4 Trucks | 2023 4-Wheel Drive Trucks Rated

Characteristics of Four-Wheel Drive Trucks

While many cars come with all-wheel drive, four-wheel drive is the domain of trucks and a select few SUVs. A number of other elements are needed, too, for a vehicle to be classified as one of the best 4-wheel drive trucks. Most brands take the basic recipe and add some of their own flavor, but here are the qualities you can expect each model to exhibit:

Power: Though not as essential in heavy-duty tow trucks, a good powertrain can help 4x4 trucks confidently challenge the great outdoors and come out on top. A good V6 is generally sufficient to get the job done, but you will find the occasional V8. Diesel options are also welcome, as they deliver plenty of low-down torque for climbing hills with ease, and they offer marginally better fuel efficiency.
Drivetrain: Naturally, 4WD is an essential component, but it’s not the only part. In order to handle all-terrain activities like mudding, the proper transmission and drive modes are essential. A low-speed transfer case is a big help, and a rear-locking differential ensures that every wheel gets the power it needs to overcome tricky terrain.
Ruggedness: This is about more than just looking the part, which is a given in this segment. Large wheels and a lifted frame are commonplace and serve to make these pickups visually appealing. However, the practical implications of the raised ground clearance include the ability to go further off-road, which is essential in a camper or adventure vehicle.
Economy: Trucks get some of the worst mpg figures in the world, and the added weight of 4WD only makes matters worse. Luckily, large fuel tanks are customary so that you can venture quite far afield without fear. However, they are not cheap to run, and since 4WD models cost more than 2WD, this only adds to the overall cost.

What to Consider When Buying 4x4 Pickup Trucks

Since new 4x4 trucks are quite a big investment, you want to be sure you’re getting your money’s worth. After all, a versatile SUV like the Ford Bronco might be all you need. Here are some of the pros and cons of the classification to consider:

Pros

Respectable power from V6 and V8 engines
Most 4x4 trucks have some degree of off-road ability
Snow and mud on the road need not concern drivers
Can double up as a safe and reliable daily driver

Cons

Some of the worst fuel economy figures
More mechanical parts mean more maintenance
Not as comfortable on the road as a sedan or SUV

FAQs

What does 4x4 mean on a truck?

Essentially, it is a system that sends power to all four wheels evenly to enhance handling and traction on less than ideal surfaces. While the concept is the same AWD, your average 4WD pickup will exhibit better confidence in even the most extreme situations. This is because the 4x4 system locks the front and rear drivetrains together to share power equally, whereas AWD only sends additional power to any axle when the system deems it necessary.

What is the cheapest 4x4 truck?

If you are looking for cheap access to 4WD in truck form, then you need look no further than the Ford Ranger or Chevrolet Colorado. Each has a starting price in the mid-$20k region. Their relatively small engines also give them some of the best fuel economy figures, though they lack the power to two heavier loads.

Which is better for trailering, 2WD or 4WD?

Oddly enough, it is the 2WD variants of most trucks that sport the top-rated towing capacities. This is likely because 4WD adds a lot of extra weight while the GVWR of the truck remains unchanged. That being said, 4WD delivers one of the most reliable towing experiences, thanks to the ability to handle any road conditions without losing composure.

Best 4x4 Trucks of 2023