What is the best 4×4 system?

The best 4×4 system depends on how and where you drive: for extreme off‑road traction, Jeep’s Rock‑Trac (Wrangler Rubicon) and Mercedes‑Benz G‑Class triple lockers are standouts; for mixed on‑road/off‑road and foul weather, Land Rover’s Terrain Response 2 and Toyota’s full‑time 4WD in the Land Cruiser/4Runner excel; for ultimate traction control in an EV, Rivian’s quad‑motor setup leads. Below is a detailed look at how 4×4 systems differ and which ones are “best” by use case in 2025.

How 4×4 systems differ—and why one size never fits all

“4×4” and “AWD” are often used interchangeably, but the hardware, control logic, and intended use can be very different. The core components—transfer cases, differentials, lockers, and software—determine how much torque reaches each wheel and how predictably a vehicle behaves on varying surfaces.

The following list outlines the major driveline architectures you’ll find today, and what they do best.

• Part‑time 4WD (2H/4H/4L): Simple, strong, and ideal off‑road. No center differential means 4H is for loose surfaces only; 2H for dry pavement. A 2‑speed transfer case provides low range for crawling and towing.
• Full‑time 4WD with center differential: Delivers constant all‑wheel traction on any surface, with a lockable center diff for off‑road. Best for mixed climates and long highway stretches in winter.
• Selectable “Auto 4WD” systems: Add an automatic 4A mode via a clutch‑type center coupling for on‑road use, plus 4H/4L for trails. A good compromise for daily drivers that still wheel on weekends.
• All‑wheel drive (AWD): Usually single‑range with electronically controlled couplings. Excellent for rain/snow and light trails; less heat‑resistant under heavy, slow off‑road loads than traditional 2‑speed 4WD.
• Locking differentials (center/rear/front): Mechanically force equal wheel speeds for maximum traction in cross‑axle situations. Transformative off‑road, but require driver judgment on high‑grip surfaces.
• Brake‑based traction control and limited‑slip diffs: Use ABS or clutches to shuffle torque when a wheel slips. Quicker and more refined than in the past; essential complements to mechanical lockers.
• Low‑range and crawl control: Low gearing multiplies torque and enables slow, precise control; automated crawl modes manage throttle and braking on steep, loose terrain.

Understanding these building blocks clarifies why “best” varies: a snow‑belt commuter needs different strengths than a rock crawler or overlander crossing continents.

Best 4×4 systems by use case in 2025

Rock crawling and technical trails

When the terrain is ledgy, off‑camber, or deeply rutted, mechanical grip and gearing matter most: low‑range ratios, axle articulation, and locking differentials front and rear.

Here are leading systems purpose‑built for technical off‑road work.

• Jeep Wrangler Rubicon (Rock‑Trac): 4:1 low‑range transfer case, locking front and rear diffs, disconnecting front sway bar. With the available 4.88 axle ratio, 2024–2025 Rubicons can achieve roughly a 100:1 crawl ratio (model‑dependent), making throttle control exceptionally precise.
• Mercedes‑Benz G‑Class (G 550/G 63): Permanent 4WD with a 2‑speed transfer case and three mechanical locking differentials (center, rear, front). Overbuilt and brutally effective, especially on cross‑axle obstacles; expensive and heavy.
• Ford Bronco Badlands/Sasquatch (Advanced 4×4): Auto 4A mode plus 2‑speed transfer case, front and rear lockers, trail turn assist, and a disconnecting sway bar on select trims. Strong articulation and traction logic make it highly capable stock.
• Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 / GMC Canyon AT4X: Front and rear lockers paired with long‑travel DSSV dampers; excellent control on chopped trails and technical climbs.

If you primarily crawl, look for dual lockers, a true low range, and suspension that maintains tire contact. Software helps, but mechanical traction wins on the hardest obstacles.

Mixed on‑road comfort and serious off‑road ability

Drivers who commute on pavement yet tackle sand, snow, mud, and moderate rock prefer systems that are calm at highway speeds and smart off‑road with minimal driver intervention.

These systems balance refinement and reach‑anywhere capability.

• Land Rover Defender (Terrain Response 2): Full‑time 4WD with a lockable center coupling, available active rear locker, low range, and surface‑specific modes that tailor throttle/shift/lockup. Exceptionally composed on‑road and confident in varied terrain.
• Toyota Land Cruiser 250 and 300 Series: Full‑time 4WD with a lockable center diff, low range, and available rear locker, plus Multi‑Terrain Select and Crawl Control. Rugged, predictable, and supported by a global service network.
• 2025 Toyota 4Runner (TNGA‑F): Off‑road trims use part‑time 4WD with low range and a rear locker; Limited offers full‑time 4WD with a lockable center diff. Multi‑Terrain Select and Crawl Control broaden capability without sacrificing daily usability.
• Jeep Grand Cherokee with Quadra‑Drive II: Full‑time system with an electronically controlled limited‑slip rear diff and rear bias; smooth on pavement, confident in low‑mu conditions.

For all‑weather commuting plus real trails, full‑time 4WD with a lockable center differential and strong traction software provides the best blend of safety and capability.

Snow, ice, and wet pavement first

On low‑friction pavement, predictable torque distribution and quick slip management matter more than extreme low‑range grunt.

The following systems stand out for foul‑weather road driving.

• Subaru Symmetrical AWD (with X‑Mode on select models): Balanced layout and quick‑reacting clutch control deliver confident traction and stable handling in snow and rain across mainstream segments.
• Audi Quattro (longitudinal models): A self‑locking mechanical center differential with brake‑based torque vectoring at the wheels provides neutral, consistent behavior in variable grip.
• Ford’s 4A “Auto 4WD” (F‑150, Bronco, others): Lets you leave the truck in an automatic mode on dry/wet mixed roads without binding, then select 4H/4L off‑road.

If your priority is winter road safety, choose a full‑time or automatic 4WD/AWD system tuned for pavement—and pair it with proper winter tires.

Overlanding and long‑range reliability

For remote travel far from dealerships, simplicity, durability, and global parts availability often trump cutting‑edge tricks.

These platforms have proven dependable under sustained load and rough conditions.

• Toyota Land Cruiser (70/250/300 Series) and Lexus GX: Conservative gearing, robust cooling, and widely supported components; full‑time 4WD with locking center and available rear locker is common depending on market.
• Toyota 4Runner (2025+) and Tacoma: Part‑time 4WD with low range, rear locker, and straightforward serviceability. Broad aftermarket and parts availability.
• Ram Power Wagon: Heavy‑duty axles, front and rear lockers, disconnecting sway bar; designed for loaded travel in tough terrain, though size can be a limitation on narrow trails.

If you plan months‑long travel, favor systems with mechanical lockers and a 2‑speed transfer case backed by a robust service network and an ample aftermarket.

Electric 4×4: instant torque and true torque vectoring

Modern EVs can outperform traditional systems in traction control thanks to motor‑by‑axle—or even motor‑by‑wheel—torque vectoring, though thermal limits and weight must be considered for sustained off‑road use.

These are leaders among off‑road‑capable EVs.

• Rivian R1T/R1S Quad‑Motor: Independent torque control at each wheel enables precise, near‑instant traction management and “tank‑turn”-like yaw authority (feature availability varies by market/regulation). Strong off‑road modes and effective low‑speed control.
• GMC Hummer EV: Dual‑ or tri‑motor AWD with off‑road calibrations, robust underbody protection, and available CrabWalk steering aids; excellent traction but extremely heavy.
• Mercedes‑Benz EQG (launching): Four in‑wheel motors with low‑range‑like virtual gearing promised; early demos show impressive traction logic, with production availability expanding in 2025.

For cutting‑edge traction, EV torque vectoring is formidable; just weigh battery thermal management, charging access on remote routes, and overall vehicle mass.

So what is “best” for you?

Rather than a single champion, the “best” 4×4 system aligns with your primary terrain, road use, and tolerance for complexity. Mechanical lockers and a two‑speed transfer case still rule in the roughest terrain; sophisticated full‑time systems shine on mixed surfaces; and EV torque vectoring is redefining what’s possible in controlled traction.

Use the following considerations to zero in on the right system for your needs.

1. Terrain mix: Mostly pavement and winter weather, or regular low‑speed technical trails?
2. Mechanical needs: Do you need dual lockers and a true low range, or is a lockable center diff with smart traction control sufficient?
3. Reliability and service: Will you be far from dealerships and specialized parts?
4. Vehicle size and weight: Will the trails you run accommodate full‑size trucks or heavy EVs?
5. Tires and suspension: The best 4×4 system is limited by tire choice, ground clearance, and damping; budget accordingly.

Answering these questions typically makes the right choice obvious—and may save you money by avoiding overkill hardware you won’t use.

Bottom line recommendations

If you want quick takeaways by category, the following picks reflect current 2025 strengths.

This list highlights top choices for common scenarios.

• Extreme off‑road: Jeep Wrangler Rubicon (Rock‑Trac) or Mercedes‑Benz G‑Class triple‑locker setup.
• All‑weather daily plus real trails: Land Rover Defender (Terrain Response 2) or Toyota Land Cruiser/2025 4Runner full‑time 4WD.
• Snow‑belt highways: Subaru Symmetrical AWD or Audi’s mechanical‑center‑diff Quattro on longitudinal models.
• Remote overlanding: Toyota Land Cruiser family, Lexus GX, or Ram Power Wagon for heavy loads.
• Electric traction innovation: Rivian R1T/R1S Quad‑Motor for true torque vectoring off‑road.

Each of these balances hardware and software differently; test‑driving on your typical surfaces is the best confirmation.

Summary

There is no single “best” 4×4 system—only the best match for your terrain and priorities. For rock crawling, choose dual lockers and a deep low range (Wrangler Rubicon, G‑Class). For mixed on‑/off‑road, opt for refined full‑time 4WD with smart terrain modes (Defender, Land Cruiser/4Runner). For winter roads, proven AWD systems (Subaru, Audi) deliver confidence. And if you want the latest in traction control, EV platforms like Rivian’s quad‑motor push capability in new directions. Pair any system with the right tires and suspension, and you’ll unlock its full potential.

What is the most reliable 4×4 truck?

The Toyota Tundra, particularly models from 2007–2021 with the 5.7L V8, is consistently cited as one of the most reliable 4×4 trucks, often exceeding 300,000 miles with routine maintenance. Other reliable options often mentioned by experts and owners include the Toyota Tacoma, the Ford F-150 (especially non-hybrid models with the Coyote V8), and the Toyota 4Runner. 
Top Reliable 4×4 Trucks

• Toyota Tundra: Opens in new tabFrequently tops reliability lists due to its bulletproof 5.7L V8 engine, with many owners reaching over 300,000 miles. The second generation (2007–2021) is particularly praised. 
• Toyota Tacoma: Opens in new tabAn off-road icon known for its durability and reliability, making it a dependable choice for many years. 
• Ford F-150: Opens in new tabConsidered a legendary 4×4 powerhouse, with the non-hybrid models, especially those equipped with the 5.0L Coyote V8, offering excellent reliability and longevity. 
• Toyota 4Runner: Opens in new tabOften mentioned by enthusiasts for its ruggedness and dependability, making it a highly reliable 4×4. 
• Chevrolet Silverado 1500: Opens in new tabA reliable workhorse with strong performance and good reliability scores on the J.D. Power scale. 

Key Factors in Truck Reliability

• Engine: The Toyota Tundra’s 5.7L V8 is renowned for its longevity, and the Ford F-150’s 5.0L Coyote V8 also stands out for its reliability. 
• Maintenance: Routine maintenance is crucial for any truck to reach high mileage. 
• Model Year: Specific model years and generations are often highlighted for their exceptional reliability, such as the 2007-2021 Tundra. 

Which is the best 4×4 system?

Our Five Favourite All-Wheel Drive Systems

1. Audi quattro. Probably the most famous AWD system out there, Audi have been developing their quattro formula since its debut in 1980.
2. Jaguar Intelligent Driveline Dynamics.
3. BMW xDrive.
4. Mercedes 4MATIC.
5. VW 4MOTION.

Which all-wheel drive system is the best?

There is no single “best” AWD system, as the ideal choice depends on your priorities like performance, luxury, or off-road capability. However, some top-performing systems include Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD for reliability and consistency, Audi’s quattro for precision and performance, Acura’s SH-AWD for its handling and control, and systems from luxury brands like BMW (xDrive) and Mercedes-Benz (4MATIC) known for stability and versatility. 
Top All-Wheel Drive Systems 

• Acura SH-AWD: Opens in new tabOften considered a top performer, this system focuses on direct deflection control for precise power distribution and enhanced handling. 
• Audi quattro: Opens in new tabA legendary system known for its reliability, precision, and ability to deliver power to individual wheels as needed, especially in extreme conditions. 
• BMW xDrive: Opens in new tabFound in most BMWs, especially the X series, this system offers excellent stability and control. 
• Honda i-VTM4: Opens in new tabA highly capable system that delivers exceptional traction and handling. 
• Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC: Opens in new tabPraised for its versatility, stability, and durability, making it a favorite in the luxury market. 
• Nissan GT-R AWD: Opens in new tabThis system is known for a rear-wheel-drive bias and active yaw control, offering an exhilarating and dynamic driving experience. 
• Rivian Quad-Motor AWD: Opens in new tabThe second generation of this system is highly capable and provides excellent control and power distribution. 
• Subaru Symmetrical AWD: Opens in new tabDeveloped specifically for AWD, this system provides consistent power to all four wheels and is a strong choice for those in snowy or mountainous regions. 
• Volvo Instant Traction AWD: Opens in new tabThis system provides instant grip and power to all wheels, offering excellent control in various conditions. 

How to Choose the Best AWD System for You 

• Consider your needs: Are you looking for maximum grip in snowy conditions (Subaru), exhilarating performance (Audi, Nissan), or advanced handling and luxury (Acura, BMW, Mercedes-Benz)?
• Read reviews: Consult resources like CARTHOLOGY and MotorTrend for system-specific details and vehicle recommendations.
• Test drive: Experience the different AWD systems firsthand in your preferred vehicle to see which best suits your driving style.

What is the most reliable 4×4 to buy?

The Toyota 4Runner and Toyota Land Cruiser are consistently ranked among the most reliable 4x4s, praised for their durability and off-road prowess. The Lexus GX also scores highly in reliability ratings, offering luxurious comfort and strong off-road capability. For a more budget-friendly option, older models of the Toyota 4Runner, Lexus GX, and Mitsubishi Pajero can provide great value. 
Top Reliable 4x4s

• Toyota 4Runner: Opens in new tabA long-standing icon known for its incredible toughness and ability to handle tough trails for decades. 
• Toyota Land Cruiser: Opens in new tabA legend of off-road vehicles, the Land Cruiser is built for durability, often reaching 300,000+ miles with routine maintenance. 
• Lexus GX: Opens in new tabThis luxury SUV offers superb off-road capabilities alongside a quiet and comfortable ride, making it a reliable choice with high owner satisfaction scores. 

Other Considerations

• Mitsubishi Pajero: Older models are a solid, affordable choice for a reliable 4×4. 
• Subaru Forester: Offers balanced performance between a car and an SUV, known for its strong symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. 
• Ford Ranger: The 2024 model demonstrates strong reliability, even with its significant refresh. 

Tips for Finding a Reliable 4×4

• Prioritize Body-on-Frame Construction: This traditional rugged construction is a key feature of most reliable 4x4s, including the 4Runner and Land Cruiser. 
• Check Owner Reviews: Websites like U.S. News & World Report and Top Speed use owner feedback to provide reliability scores. 
• Consider Certified Pre-Owned Options: If you’re buying used, a certified pre-owned vehicle can offer peace of mind.