BEST 4x4 DIESEL ENGINE
International Power Stroke 6.0 V-8
It is an exciting time for diesel technology, and with the next-generation diesel engines on the scene, there has never been a better time to own a diesel-powered four-wheeler. We initially considered Jeep's 2.8L I-4 CRD from the Liberty and Volkswagen's 5.0L V-10 TDI from the Touareg, but the V-10 isn't available in the U.S. for 2005 (but will return for 2006) and the diesel Liberty isn't available in all 50 states yet. That left us with the familiar favorites: Cummins' 5.9L I-6 HO for the Dodge Ram, Isuzu's Duramax 6600 V-8 for the Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra, and International's Power Stroke 6.0L V-8 for the Ford Super Duty. Having driven all of these engines back to back in both towing and unladen situations, our nod goes to the linear power and higher redline of the Power Stroke, which melds the awesome low-end of the Cummins with the kick-in-the-pants passing acceleration of the Duramax.
Others Considered: Cummins 5.9L HO, Isuzu Duramax 6600
EDITORS' CHOICE BEST OVERALL
Land Rover LR3
Our pick for best overall four-wheeler is the Land Rover LR3. With an impressively tight chassis, terrain-conforming air suspension, and an electronic Terrain Response system that actually works without being invasive, the Land Rover LR3 is a vehicle that off-pavement novices and experienced pros alike can enjoy. Impressive is the number of four-wheeling accessories that cater to the hard-core enthusiast and a ride that seemingly turns boulder-pocked trails into asphalt ribbons. The LR3 is everything the Discovery was, in an adept package that works just as well on-road as off. A new V-6 model has been added to the lineup, bringing the price of the LR3 within the reach of the average entry-level luxury SUV buyer. However, we'll take ours with the 300hp V-8 and outfitted for the Land Rover G4 Challenge.
Others Considered: None.
Specs
Vehicle/model: Land Rover LR3
Estimated price: $44,995
ENGINE
Type: 4.4L DOHC V-8
Horsepower @ rpm: 300 @ 5,500
Torque @ rpm: 315 @ 4,000
EPA city/highway mpg: 14/18
DRIVETRAIN
Transmission: Six-speed automatic
Transfer case: Full-time two-speed
Transfer case: ratio 2.93:1
Axle ratio: 3.73:1
SUSPENSION
Front: IFS, air springs
Rear: IRS, air springs
WHEELS AND TIRES
Wheels, base: 18x8 aluminum
Tires, base: 255/60HR18 M+S
BRAKES
Front: Disc/ABS
Rear: Disc/ABS
DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES
Wheelbase, in.: 113.6
Length, in.: 190.9
Width, in.: 75.4
Height, in.: 74.1
Curb weight, lb.: 5,426
Fuel capacity, gal.: 22.8
Ground clearance, in.: 9.5
Seating: 5
Towing capacity, lb.: 7,716