Here Are The Cheapest 4x4s You Can Buy New (1 We'd Stay Away From)

Buyers in the market for a new 4×4 are spoiled for choice, but finding an affordable and competent off-roader is still surprisingly tricky.

Here Are The Cheapest 4x4s You Can Buy New (1 We’d Stay Away From)

Whether you’re a pro-off-roader or just getting into it, there are a couple of things you need to have in mind. Distinguishing between your wants and needs is a good place to start. While a 450-horsepower Ford F-150 Raptor will naturally tear up any trail, a used $20,000 Jeep Wrangler will do just as well on rough terrain.

Shopping for a 4×4 today will have you spoiled for choice. But while pickups and SUVs come with more off-road capabilities and aftermarket support than ever before, picking one that’s competent off the tarmac isn’t always a piece of cake, especially if you’re working on a budget.

For this list, we’ve found nine of the most affordable pickups and SUVs that’ll each have no problems tackling daunting terrain while providing the driver with some serious thrills. To contrast them, we’ve included an SUV that proves not all 4x4s should venture off the tarmac.

HOTCARS VIDEO OF THE DAY

2021 Ram 1500 Rebel – $37,934

Via-Vernon Auto Group

Over the past couple of years, Ram has managed to regain its position as a formidable off-road beast. The Ram Rebel 1500 is built to dominate any off-road setting it sets its tires on. These include muddy trails, rocky mountains, frozen trails, or even flowing streams.

RELATED: New Details Emerge On 2021 RAM 1500 Rebel TRX

Via-WHEELS

This beast is powered by a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine that has a maximum power output capacity of 395 horsepower. This engine not only delivers when you need it to but also roars to life every time you turn it on. The 2021 Ram 1500 Rebel can be purchased for $37,934 according to Edmunds.

2020 Toyota 4Runner – $37,189

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Toyota has proven that it can build amazing cars without compromising on the price tag. They have translated this mindset across all their vehicles. This includes their budget for 4×4 rides. One of these rides is the 2020 Toyota 4Runner. Edmunds prices this model at $37,189.

Via-Auto Trader

For the 2020 4Runner, Toyota fitted skid plates to this 4×4’s engine, fuel tank, and front suspension. The powertrain fitted to the 4Runner is a 4.0-liter V6 engine that pushes 270 horsepower at 5,600 RPM. The power from this engine is pushed to the 2020 Toyota 4Runner’s 4×4 drivetrain.

2021 Subaru Outback – $26,795

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When it comes to off-roading there are very few car manufacturers who have mastered the art of building them. And if you must choose then your best bet is a company that has dominated the rally tracks for decades now.

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The Subaru Outback is a car that has made a name for itself as a beast when it comes to tackling muddy and rocky trails. Over the years the Outback has undergone numerous changes to equip it with the necessary tools to tackle anything thrown at it. The 2021 model can cost you $26,795 according to Truecar.

2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee – $32,150

Via-Clear Lake Dodge

When it comes to off-roading and amazing 4×4 capabilities one might say that Jeep is king. Since Jeeps debuted, they have been known as being rough and rugged. However, the 2020 Jeep Cherokee seems to have changed all that.

Via-Victor Chrysler Dodge

This SUV is one of the most comfortable Jeeps ever made. Jeep has managed to have this SUV deliver as both a daily driver and off-road beast, dominating places and trails other SUV manufacturers could only dream of. The best part about this ride is you can have it for $32,150 without breaking your bank.

Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro – $43,960

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For some time now, there has been a battle when it comes to the Tacoma and the Tundra. And for the most part, the Tacoma always seems to be coming out on top. This is because the Tacoma has proven to be reliable and more desirable.

RELATED: 15 Reasons Why We’d Get A Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Over A Ford Raptor

Via-WHEELS

The Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro is the highest trim in the Tacoma lineup. It features a roaring 3.5-liter V6 engine, this engine is mated with a six-speed automatic transmission. The maximum power output capacity of this engine is 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. The new model can be had for around $43,960 per Toyota listings.

2021 Jeep Gladiator – $34,040

Via-Edmunds

When it comes to 4×4 beast Jeep is at the top of the list. Jeeps had a long-time of training when it comes to building vehicles that can conquer even the worst of trails. They did this when building cars for the American soldiers during World War II.

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The reward of all this experience can be felt by Jeep clients. One of the best and affordable Jeep builds is the 2021 Jeep Gladiator. This ride is powered by a standard 3.6-liter V6 engine that pushes 285 horses and delivers 260 lb-ft of torque. The 2021 model is sold for about $34,040 per Jeep listings.

2020 Ford Explorer – $32,948

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When it comes to building 4X4s Ford has always made sure that it delivers not just on the powertrain but the looks as well. The 2020 Ford Explorer is a four-by-four SUV that is built on a truck layout. The 2020 Ford Explorer has delivered more than what many expected it to.

Via-Instagram

This SUV handles and drives better than most SUVs in its category. The Ford Explorer’s base trim is powered by a 2.3-liter inline-four inter-cooled turbo engine. This engine pushes 300 horsepower and delivers 310 lb-ft of torque. You can get this ride for $32,948.

2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty – $52,155

Via-The Drive

The Ford F series is the most popular Ford brand in the United States. These trucks have over the years gained notoriety for their performance, reliability, and affordable price tags. If you are looking for a cool workhorse or daily driver then these are the 4x4s for you.

Via-car

The Ford F-250 Super Duty is a 6.2-liter V8-powered beast. The engine strapped on this ride makes 385 horsepower and delivers 430 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is mated to the engine. This machine has a price tag of $52,155 according to Edmunds.

2021 Toyota Tundra – $34,025

Via-Edmark Toyota

The Toyota Tundra is a strong, dependable, and reliable pickup truck. The Tundra is powered by a powerful V8 engine. For the 2021 model, Toyota strapped a 5.7-liter V8 engine to this truck. This engine is mated with an automatic w/OD transmission.

RELATED: The 2022 Toyota Tundra Is Here, And This Is What We Know About It

Via-J D Power

This powertrain pushes a maximum power output capacity of 401 horsepower at 3,600 RPM and delivers 381 lb-ft of torque at 5,600 RPM. The spacious interior is enough to carry 6 passengers. With this pickup truck, no trail is off-limits. The Tundra model will set you back $34,025.

Stay Away: 2020 GMC Yukon – $51,000

Via-The Daily Drive

In 2020, the GMC Yukon was named the worst SUV on the market by Motor Biscuit. While this might sound a bit exaggerated, we would not recommend this 4×4. This is especially true if you are looking for a vehicle whose engine is stable. This model is valued by GMC listings at $51,000.

Via-The Mercury News

The GMC Yukon’s 5.3-liter v8 pushes 355 horsepower and delivers 383 lb-ft of torque. The numbers sound amazing but this powertrain is nothing but problematic. These issues include random irritating vibrations on the suspension.

These issues coupled with bad fuel economy the GMC Yukon is another large SUV joining the pile of poorly built 4X4 SUVs.