HERE are the six sturdiest 4x4s you can buy for less than £5,000 – from the iconic Land Rover to a budget Suzuki.
“Soft-roaders” have seen a rise in popularity thanks to their capabilities both on and off-road.
Despite preconceptions, these compact cars are durable, reliable and can just about conquer any rough terrain.
So much so, two of the UK’s top three best selling cars in 2024 were the Nissan Qashqai and the Kia Sportage.
Scroll to see a full list of affordable off-roaders that will go the distance, without breaking the bank.
Land Rover Discovery 3 (2004-2009)
Jeremy Clarkson once drove this motor to the top of a Scottish mountain, which suggests it’s a top choice for off-road escapes, reports The Telegraph.
Although it’s equipped with all the luxuries of a high-end car motorists are warned it isn’t always the most reliable.
Drivers looking to get their hands on this model should hunt carefully to avoid disappointment.
And with a price point of as little as £3,000, there are a number of issues to contend with.
These include snapped crankshafts, electrical problems and even faulty air-con.
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Kia Sorento (2003-2009)
The first-generation Sorento model is an able contender in the rough terrain.
This is thanks to its body-on-frame construction, a low-range transfer case, and solid rear axle these early.
[bc_video account_id=”5067014667001″ application_id=”” aspect_ratio=”16:9″ autoplay=”” caption=”Much-loved car brand to release new budget EV across Europe with bargain price tag” embed=”in-page” experience_id=”” height=”100%” language_detection=”” max_height=”360px” max_width=”640px” min_width=”0px” mute=”” padding_top=”56%” picture_in_picture=”” player_id=”default” playlist_id=”” playsinline=”” sizing=”responsive” video_id=”6369095439112″ video_ids=”” width=”640px”]In addition to a spacious boot and back, the Sorento is widely believed to be a sturdy and reliable motor.
And at just £1,000 it’s not going to break the bank either.
Drivers have been cautioned, however, to look out for engine cut-outs and rust which can be found on some models being sold.
Suzuki Jimny (1998-2009)
Although one of the most compact motors on the list, the Suzuki Jimny has long been seen as a go-to budget car.
It’s light and has a low-range gearbox, with lockable differentials that anyone attempting more serious cross-country tracks can buy separately.
Not just that but it’s proven reliability makes it a whopping choice for any long distance journeys.
It costs £2,500.
[read-more title=”READ MORE BUYING A USED CAR” article_ids=”28429132,33232476″ shortcode_id=”f800422a-7398-40ac-97da-9604c7599564″ /]Subaru Forester (2002-2008)
For a perfectly viable off-roader, the second-generation Subaru Forester ticks all the boxes.
Equipped with a selectable low-ratio gearbox and good views outwards it’s a proven win for tougher routes.
Some additions like a suspension lifting kit and a limited-slip rear differential make it an even more formidable motor.
The vehicle can be bought for as little as £1,500.
Dacia Duster 4×4 (2010-2017)
The Dacia Duster is a useful off-road motor thanks to its lock function on the centre differential.
This, combined with its relatively light weight body and specialist tyres means it can go just about anywhere.
Also, because its design is so simple there are much fewer things that can go wrong.
That being said, motorists should watch out for rust and leaks particularly on older examples.
This one can be nabbed on some sites for £1,500.
Buying a used car? Find cars for under £200 on Sun Motors here.
Mitsubishi Shogun (1999-2006)
For a third-generation car, this Mitsubishi has maintained its value despite being somewhat clunky and noisy on the road.
It’s fit with everything you need for a solid 4×4 but drivers are warned it can come with a number problems.
For £3,700 it has a sagging rear suspension and can suffer from failing diesel fuel pumps because of trapped moisture.
