The Best Used 4x4 SUVs

Many shoppers buy trucks and SUVs not only for their everyday usability but also for their off-road capability. Most of these vehicles come with either all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive (you can read about their differences here), significantly enhancing their prowess on slick, loose or rough terrain. However, all-wheel drive generally operates without input from the driver, and power is given to all four wheels only when additional traction control is needed. On the other hand, four-wheel-drive vehicles use a combination of differentials and transfer cases to maintain optimal traction in various conditions, providing enhanced control over the distribution of power. If you want to go off-road or deal with the most extreme weather conditions, an SUV with four-wheel drive is your best bet. Here are a few used options we'd recommend checking out first.

Toyota Land Cruiser

For decades, the Toyota Land Cruiser has been known for unparalleled reliability in four-wheel-drive vehicles. While the new model features a turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid engine, older models were equipped with a robust V8 commonly known to last over half a million miles. The previous-generation Land Cruiser offered a third row of seats, albeit with a tighter space than some competitors, while the current model only offers the third row overseas. One drawback, however, is that older Land Cruisers' infotainment and technology systems fall short of modern standards.

Edmunds Rating: 7.3 (out of 10)
Consumer rating: 4.8 (out of 5)

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Read our 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser review

Toyota Sequoia

If a used Land Cruiser is out of your budget, consider the Toyota Sequoia, which used the same dependable 5.7-liter V8 engine. This engine was also shared with the Tundra full-size pickup. Compared to the Land Cruiser, the Sequoia is larger in size, and it has a more spacious second and third row of seats. However, older models used an independent rear suspension setup, allowing for less articulation and off-road traction than the Land Cruiser's solid axle.

Edmunds Rating: 6.9 (out of 10)
Consumer rating: 4.2 (out of 5)

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Read our 2022 Toyota Land Sequoia review

Toyota 4Runner

After a 15-year run, the 4Runner is all-new for the 2025 model year, and the previous generation might go down as one of the best four-wheel-drive SUVs of all time. Look for TRD Off-Road models from the 2017 to 2024 model years that include Toyota's Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), a hydraulic system that enhances on-road handling while automatically disconnecting the sway bars for improved off-road articulation. Some lower, cheaper trims might have two-wheel drive, so be mindful when shopping for a used 4Runner.

Edmunds Rating: 7.6 (out of 10)
Consumer rating: 4.7 (out of 5)

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Read our 2023 Toyota 4 Runner review

Lexus GX

The previous-generation GX 460 was closely related to the 4Runner but had a 4.6-liter V8 engine (the new one is based on the current Land Cruiser). The GX 460 also has full-time four-wheel drive, and all models have KDSS (see the 4Runner entry). Because it's a Lexus, the GX has more luxury features than the 4Runner, including an adjustable suspension system. Still, the GX falls short of other luxury rivals in terms of on-road handling and technology.

Edmunds Rating: 6.9 (out of 10)
Consumer rating: 4.5 (out of 5)

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Read our 2023 Lexus GX 460 review

Chevrolet Tahoe

The Chevy Tahoe is the quintessential American family SUV, and the newest generation swapped out the previous model's solid rear axle for a more refined independent suspension setup to help increase rear passenger legroom. Older Z71 models come standard with four-wheel drive, and you can get one of two V8 engine options along with a front skid plate, all-terrain tires and an available air suspension. Other models also offer four-wheel drive and the addition of a Duramax diesel engine.

Edmunds Rating: 7.4 (out of 10)
Consumer rating: 3.2 (out of 5)

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Read our 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe review

Nissan Armada

Domestic automakers' full-size offerings often overshadow the Nissan Armada, but it's a robust V8-powered, four-wheel-drive SUV. An available off-road package added an electronic rear locking differential for increased off-road traction and hill descent control for navigating steep grades. A new Armada with a new twin-turbo V6 is available for 2025, and it ups the 4x4 ante even more with an available off-road-focused Pro-4X model.

Edmunds Rating: 7.1 (out of 10)
Consumer rating: 4.3 (out of 5)

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Read our 2023 Nissan Armada review

Jeep Wrangler

Four-wheel-drive SUVs don't get much more capable than the Jeep Wrangler. With robust solid axles front and rear and available locking differentials front and back, there's not much terrain a Wrangler can't conquer. Plus, it's the O.G. for open-air fun. With a vast aftermarket for parts and upgrades, a used Wrangler can easily be customized to fit your lifestyle, making it an ideal vehicle for adventure seekers. Due to its solid front and rear axles, though, its downsides are its steering, handling and ride quality, and that's where the Ford Bronco makes its case.

Edmunds Rating: 7.7 (out of 10)
Consumer rating: 4.4 (out of 5)

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Read our 2023 Jeep Wrangler review

Ford Bronco

Maybe you love the nostalgic charm of the Ford Bronco or want a more refined ride than the Jeep Wrangler. Either way, the Bronco is a quintessential four-wheel-drive SUV with numerous trims and options available. It offers massive 35-inch tires as part of the Sasquatch off-road package and a removable roof and doors regardless of whether you're looking for a two- or four-door model.

Edmunds Rating: 7.9 (out of 10)
Consumer rating: 4.0 (out of 5)

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Read our 2023 Ford Bronco review