Compare the best small 4x4s
High-quality small 4x4 cars from rated and reviewed dealers
If you're looking for the security of all-weather grip, a 4x4 is a great option. It essentially means that the engine powers all four wheels, and although the type of tyres you have also plays an important role, this generally means cars feel more secure in poor conditions. It's why off-roaders are almost exclusively four-wheel drive.
However, you don't have to want to escape far off the beaten track to enjoy the benefits this provides. There are plenty of small four-wheel drive cars that are a great option for those who need something compact for the city, but also want to be able to tackle country roads in the midst of a bleak winter.
Below are 10 of the best small four-wheel drive cars you can buy right now, selected by our team of expert car reviewers.
1. BMW X1
BMW X1 review
BMW’s latest X1 has really grown up — the cabin is far roomier and classier than it used to be, and it feels more like one of BMW’s bigger cars to drive now, certainly compared to previous versions. You’ll need to spend extra to get a four-wheel drive model — go for one of the plug-in hybrids or the racy X1 23i xDrive. Or you could get the all-electric, all-wheel drive iX1, which boasts a range of up to 267 miles. Whichever model you go for, the X1 feels like a proper BMW, despite being the least expensive SUV in the range.
2. Volvo XC40 Recharge
Volvo XC40 Recharge review
Battery range up to 333 miles
If you want a petrol- or diesel-powered four-wheel drive XC40, you'll have to look to the used market these days. But if you're looking at new models there is an improved Recharge Twin two-motor, four-wheel drive electric version with a maximum range of 314 miles. It’s bonkers quick too, thanks to 408hp, but the cabin does look a bit on the cheap side for the price. That said, it's nice and roomy inside and very comfortable whether you're driving around town or heading out on the motorway. And the one thing you really can count on in a Volvo is an extensive round of driver assistance technology, which is some of the best in the business.
3. Range Rover Evoque
Range Rover Evoque review
The Evoque comes with that special blend of style, luxury and off-road ability that Range Rover packs in all its models. However, this is arguably the most fashion-focused of the lot, with a slinky body style and a lovely interior. Don't think it's not capable in the muddy stuff, though. Despite the glitz and glam it will best all but the most serious off-roaders, then look perfectly at home driving you to your local Waitrose for the weekly shop. It’s not cheap though, and you will have to shell out extra for the latest tech.
4. Cupra Formentor
Cupra Formentor review
The Formentor is only barely a 4x4 — shape-wise, it’s really just a hatchback with lifts in its shoes, and you have to get the powerful 310hp engine to get four-wheel drive. It’s really handsome, though, and has a cracking interior. It's way more fun to drive than you might expect, because Cupra was born from SEAT's performance division, so all of its models aim to put a smile on your face. Plug-in hybrid models are the most frugal – if you keep the batteries topped up – but it’s the petrol model that’s the fun one. It's essentially a hot hatch on stilts.
2024
Urban Living Award
Highly Commended
5. Toyota Yaris Cross
Toyota Yaris Cross review
This small 4x4 offers added security in slippery driving conditions and sips away on fuel thanks to its efficient hybrid engine. Seriously, it's one of the most efficient cars you can buy – we've seen 72mpg out in the real world, with a mix of driving situations. Impressive. Luggage space is good too, as is the build quality. Rough roads can upset the ride and that efficient engine can get vocal at high revs, so it's not perfect. Oh, and be aware that only the top-spec versions get four-wheel drive, so if you want this you'll have to budget a bit extra.
6. Mini Countryman
MINI Countryman (2016-2023) review
Battery range up to 28 miles
This practical family-friendly Mini comes with four-wheel-drive courtesy of its plug-in hybrid engine. Keep the batteries fully charged and you'll find your trips to the petrol station plummet. It may look a little odd but it still has that fun Mini driving experience. The boot is a tad smaller than more conventional rivals, which is a shame, so it's worth reading our full review if you need to maximise boot space and practicality. If not, this is a cool, upmarket family SUV.
7. Alfa Romeo Tonale
Alfa Romeo Tonale review
Alfa’s first compact SUV comes with four-wheel drive if you go for the plug-in hybrid model, as it uses an electric motor to drive the rear wheels. We wouldn’t try going too far off-road with it — it’s just not that sort of SUV — but it’ll cope fine with unmade roads or the odd grassy car park. Looks great on the outside, and the cabin is gorgeous too, but the hybrid system has weird responses at times, and it isn’t that nice to drive. It's a bit more style than substance, if we're honest, so consider how important that is to you.
8. Suzuki Jimny
Suzuki Jimny review
We'll be honest: The Suzuki Jimny is not the best car to drive on the road. It's not particularly comfortable, jostles and jumps over bumps in the road, and it's really noisy on the motorway. But its tall and narrow dimensions make it great for driving in town, and because of the way it looks, you can't help but pootle around with a massive grin on your face. What's more, if you do need to take your car off-road, you'd have to buy a serious, expensive off-roader to go further than the Jimny. It can scramble across rough terrain like a mountain goat. And even if it had nothing else going for it, the 'baby Mercedes G-Class' looks are enough to make you want one, right? Unfortunately they're no longer available new, but are well worth browsing the used market for.
9. Dacia Duster
Dacia Duster (2017-2024) review
There aren’t many small 4x4s out there that can compete with the Duster when it comes to interior space and rugged off-road ability in this price range. It isn’t packed with tech, but you get most of the basics included as standard, and it really is a fantastic value option. Sure, the interior doesn't necessarily stack up with most other new cars, but when you see the price, do you care? If you're looking for a car that will support an active lifestyle, and one that you won't mind getting a bit dirty, the Duster is an excellent choice. That doesn't mean it's cheap and nasty inside, though. If you want an affordable car for the school run, it's still a brilliant choice.
10. Jeep Renegade
Jeep Renegade review
If you’re serious about your off-roading then the Jeep Renegade is one of the most capable in its class. It is reasonably efficient, too, but you will have to put up with a noisy cabin at motorway speeds and some cheap-feeling interior materials. If you can do that, you'll get a cool-looking little 4x4 that's sure to get you wherever you need to go – whether that's dropping the kids off at school or taking the dog for a walk halfway up a mountain.
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