10 Best Buys In Four Wheel Drive

In 2005, the staff of Four Wheeler started our 10 Best Buys in Four Wheel Drive list. Unlike our Four Wheeler of the Year competition, which only includes models that are new or significantly revised, our 10 Best Buys takes in to account every available four-wheeler in the U.S. for consideration. We look at each four-wheel-drive vehicle on the market and choose, what we believe, are the best out-of-the-box four-wheelers around for the money. The winners of each category are not chosen solely on price, but rather from a mix of criteria that starts with off-pavement capability and compares that against other vehicles in their class, and how they stack up against each other when value, equipment, versatility, and overall attributes are considered. We have selected the vehicles that will get you on the trail quicker and best lend themselves to aftermarket upgrades and daily usability. Our staff nominated a field of competitors and narrowed down the list to the consensus you see here.

Entry-Level 4x4

Suzuki Grand Vitara


Base price: $20,399 (4WD)
Year on the list: 1st

Because not everyone who wants to get into the sport of four-wheeling can afford a Jeep Wrangler Rubicon or Range Rover Sport, we decided to add a new category for 2006 to cover entry-level 4x4s. To us, this was an easy choice, as we have had a lot of pleasure from Suzuki vehicles. For the price, you get a very peppy V-6, excellent build quality, true low-range capability, and a ton of features. While we know the Grand Vitara isn't going to conquer the Rubicon, there isn't another vehicle in its price range that offers the amenities and comfort of the Suzuki. If you are looking for an affordable, well-equipped SUV that will get you to the office or take you down some dirt roads, look no further.

Others Considered: None

Compact Suv

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon


Base price: $28,395
Year on the list: 2nd

Solid axles, locking differentials, mud tires, coil springs-how could the Wrangler not be on the list? The TJ is in its final year, and since 1997, it has been putting its mark on the four-wheeling world. When the Rubicon package was introduced in 2003, we knew it would be embraced by the enthusiast market and become an instant classic-and it has. With the '07 JK just around the corner, this is your last chance to own a Jeep with an I-6 from the factory, just like the good old days. The Wrangler is a true American icon that really shows its worth off the beaten path.

Others Considered: None