There are SUVs and then there are SUVs that are genuinely built to leave the tarmac behind. If your idea of a weekend drive involves rocky trails, slushy tracks, steep climbs or simply taking the road less travelled, a capable 4X4 can make all the difference.
So, which are the best 4X4 cars in India right now?
India’s 4X4 market has something for almost every kind of adventure seeker. You have compact and relatively affordable off-roaders like the Mahindra Thar and Maruti Suzuki Jimny, serious trail machines like the Force Gurkha, versatile family SUVs such as the Mahindra Scorpio-N and Toyota Fortuner and even luxury icons like the Mercedes-Benz G-Class.
We’ve put together the top 10 4X4 cars available in India, considering their drivetrain capability, off-road hardware, performance, practicality and price. Whether you want an affordable adventure companion or a luxury SUV that can climb far beyond the city limits, there’s something here for you.
But before we get into the list, let’s understand what actually makes a vehicle a true 4X4.
Table of contents
- What Makes a Car a True 4X4?
- Top 10 4X4 Cars in India: Comparison Table
- Mahindra Thar
- Mahindra Thar Roxx
- Maruti Suzuki Jimny
- Force Gurkha
- Mahindra Scorpio-N
- Toyota Hilux
- Jeep Compass
- Isuzu V-Cross
- Mercedes-Benz G-Class
- Toyota Fortuner
- How to Protect Your 4X4 Car
- Concluding Thoughts
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes a Car a True 4X4?
Before choosing one of the best 4X4 cars in India, it is worth understanding what separates a genuine 4X4 from an SUV that simply looks rugged.
A traditional 4X4 system is designed to send drive to all four wheels when additional traction is required. More capable systems also offer selectable drive modes such as 4H and 4L, with the latter using low-range gearing to provide greater torque and control at low speeds. This becomes particularly useful while crawling over rocks, climbing steep inclines or navigating loose surfaces.
But the drivetrain is only part of the equation. Serious off-roaders also benefit from features such as a ladder-frame chassis, high ground clearance, generous approach and departure angles, low-range gearing, differential locks and water-wading capability.
The Maruti Suzuki Jimny, for example, combines a ladder frame, rigid-axle suspension and ALLGRIP PRO 4WD with a low-range transfer gear.
In short, a proper 4X4 is not just about having power going to four wheels. It is about how effectively the entire vehicle can use that traction when the road disappears.
4X4 vs 4WD vs AWD: Key Differences
- 4X4 / 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive): Generally refers to a system designed to provide drive to all four wheels, often with selectable 2H, 4H and 4L modes. Low-range gearing and, in some vehicles, locking differentials make it particularly effective for serious off-roading.
- AWD (All-Wheel Drive): Typically distributes power between the front and rear axles automatically, using differentials and electronic controls to improve traction on roads and slippery surfaces. It is generally designed for everyday driving rather than extreme off-roading.
- The key difference: A 4WD system with low-range gearing gives the driver greater control and torque multiplication when tackling difficult terrain, while AWD systems prioritise seamless traction and stability with minimal driver input.
Top 10 4X4 Cars in India: Comparison Table
| Car Name | 4X4/4WD System | Engine | Power | Approx. Ex-Showroom Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mahindra Thar | 4WD with low range | Petrol/Diesel | Up to 150 bhp* | ₹15.59–18 lakh* |
| Mahindra Thar Roxx | 4WD with low range | Petrol/Diesel | Up to 175 bhp* | ₹18–23.52 lakh* |
| Maruti Suzuki Jimny | ALLGRIP PRO 4WD | 1.5L Petrol | 105 PS | ₹12–15 lakh* |
| Force Gurkha | 4WD with 4L | 2.6L Diesel | 140 PS | ₹16.31 lakh* |
| Mahindra Scorpio-N | 4XPLOR 4WD | 2.2L Diesel | Up to 175 PS | ₹20–25.49 lakh* |
| Toyota Hilux | 4WD | 2.8L Diesel | 204 PS | From ₹28.52 lakh |
| Jeep Compass | 4X4 Selec-Terrain | 2.0L Diesel | 172 bhp* | ₹18–30.95 lakh* |
| Isuzu V-Cross | 4WD | 1.9L Diesel | 163 hp | From ₹25.50 lakh* |
| Mercedes-Benz G-Class | 4MATIC | Diesel/Petrol | Varies by variant | From ~₹2.9 crore* |
| Toyota Fortuner | 4WD | 2.8L Diesel | 204 PS | From ₹34.76 lakh* |
*Prices and specifications can vary by variant, location and model update. Always check the manufacturer’s latest price list before purchase. Current-market references indicate the Thar, Thar Roxx, Scorpio-N, Gurkha, Compass and Fortuner ranges above, while Toyota and Isuzu publish current specifications for the Hilux and V-Cross respectively.
1. Mahindra Thar
Few names are as closely associated with Indian off-roading as the Mahindra Thar. With its unmistakable upright design, high ground clearance and proper 4WD hardware, the Thar has become the go-to choice for buyers who want an authentic off-road SUV without entering luxury-SUV territory..
The Thar is available with petrol and diesel powertrains, with 4WD versions offering the hardware needed for serious trail driving. Current listings show 4WD variants alongside more road-focused RWD versions, making it important to choose the right variant if off-road capability is your priority.
Why it stands out:
- Genuine 4WD system designed for challenging terrain
- High ground clearance and capable approach/departure angles
- Petrol and diesel engine options
- Available with manual and automatic transmission choices
- Strong aftermarket support for adventure-focused upgrades
The biggest advantage of the Thar is its character. It is not trying to hide its off-road DNA behind a premium badge. This is an SUV made to be taken somewhere the average city car would rather not go.
Engine & Price: Petrol/Diesel, manual/automatic | Up to around 150 bhp depending on engine | 4WD variants from around ₹15.59 lakh ex-showroom*
Mahindra Thar Roxx
Take the Thar formula, stretch it, add more space and technology and you get the Mahindra Thar Roxx. It retains the rugged character of its smaller sibling while becoming considerably more practical for families and everyday driving.
The 4WD version is the one to look at if serious off-road ability is on your checklist. Higher-spec versions combine the 4WD system with a more sophisticated cabin and a broader equipment list, making the Roxx an interesting bridge between a traditional off-roader and a modern family SUV. Current listings show the AX7L 4WD Diesel AT at around ₹23.52 lakh ex-showroom.
Why it stands out:
- 4WD hardware with low-range capability
- More spacious and practical than the three-door Thar
- Strong diesel performance for highway and trail use
- Modern cabin and technology
- Better suited to families who want adventure without sacrificing everyday usability
The Thar Roxx makes a particularly strong case for itself if your SUV needs to handle Monday-to-Friday commuting as well as Saturday-morning trail runs.
Engine & Price: Petrol/Diesel, manual/automatic | Up to around 175 bhp depending on engine | 4WD variants around ₹18–23.52 lakh*
3. Maruti Suzuki Jimny
Small in size but huge in off-road ability, the Maruti Suzuki Jimny proves that you don’t need a massive SUV to enjoy serious four-wheel-drive capability.
The five-door Jimny uses Suzuki’s ALLGRIP PRO 4WD system, paired with a ladder-frame chassis, three-link rigid-axle suspension and low-range transfer gear. The 4L mode provides additional torque multiplication and control when the terrain gets particularly demanding.
Its compact dimensions are another advantage. On narrow trails and tight tracks, the Jimny can squeeze through spaces where larger SUVs may struggle.
Why it stands out:
- ALLGRIP PRO 4WD with 4L low-range gearing
- Ladder-frame construction
- Compact dimensions for better trail manoeuvrability
- 1.5L petrol engine
- Manual and automatic transmission options
- Brake Limited Slip Differential helps manage traction on slippery terrain
The Jimny may not have the outright power or size of some SUVs on this list, but that is precisely its charm. It is light, compact and purpose-built for getting through difficult terrain.
Engine & Price: 1.5L Petrol | 105 PS | Approximately ₹12–15 lakh*
4. Force Gurkha
If the Jimny is the compact mountain goat, the Force Gurkha is the old-school trail specialist. It is unapologetically focused on off-road capability, with a rugged construction and hardware designed to tackle demanding terrain.
The current Gurkha uses a 2.6-litre diesel engine producing 140 PS and 320 Nm, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. Its 4WD system offers 2H, 4H and 4L modes, while manual front and rear differential locks give it an advantage when traction becomes extremely limited.
Why it stands out:
- 2H, 4H and 4L drive modes
- Front and rear differential locks
- 700 mm water-wading capability
- High ground clearance
- Rugged body-on-frame construction
- Serious off-road geometry
The Gurkha isn’t necessarily the first choice for someone looking for a plush urban SUV. But if your definition of a good 4X4 begins with “How far can it go off-road?”, it deserves a very close look.
Engine & Price: 2.6L Diesel, 5-speed manual | 140 PS/320 Nm | Around ₹16.31 lakh ex-showroom*
5. Mahindra Scorpio-N
The Mahindra Scorpio-N is where things get interesting for buyers who want a proper 4X4 without giving up family practicality. It combines a ladder-frame chassis and 4WD capability with a spacious seven-seat layout, making it equally comfortable carrying the family to the hills or tackling a rough trail.
Its 4WD variants use Mahindra’s 4XPLOR system and are available with the 2.2-litre diesel engine. The current Scorpio-N range continues to offer 2WD and 4WD configurations, with the latest 2026 update retaining the same core mechanical package.
Why it stands out:
- 4XPLOR four-wheel-drive system
- Ladder-frame construction
- Seven-seat practicality
- Strong diesel engine
- Terrain-focused drive modes
- Comfortable enough for long highway journeys
This is arguably one of the most balanced choices on the list. You can use it as a family SUV during the week and still have enough hardware to enjoy a serious weekend adventure.
Engine & Price: 2.2L Diesel, manual/automatic | Up to 175 PS | Approximately ₹20–25.49 lakh for 4WD variants*
6. Toyota Hilux
Want a 4X4 that can carry adventure gear, luggage, camping equipment and just about everything else you can throw into a pickup bed? Meet the Toyota Hilux.
The Hilux combines Toyota’s legendary pickup-truck DNA with a 2.8-litre diesel engine and a 4WD system. Toyota’s current India specification lists 204 PS, with 420 Nm in the manual and up to 500 Nm in the automatic version. It is available with six-speed manual and automatic transmissions.
Why it stands out:
- Proper 4WD system
- 2.8L diesel engine
- Up to 204 PS and 500 Nm
- Large and practical cargo bed
- Strong towing and load-carrying credentials
- Rugged ladder-frame construction
The Hilux is more than just a lifestyle pickup. It is a serious utility vehicle that happens to look fantastic while doing it.
Engine & Price: 2.8L Diesel, 6-speed manual/automatic | 204 PS | From approximately ₹28.52 lakh ex-showroom
7. Jeep Compass
The Jeep Compass brings a more premium and urban-friendly interpretation of 4X4 capability to this list. Unlike some of the more hardcore off-roaders here, the Compass is designed to spend most of its life on roads while retaining the ability to tackle rough terrain when required.
The India-specification Compass has been offered with Jeep’s 4X4 Selec-Terrain system and a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine producing around 172 bhp and 350 Nm in the relevant configuration.
Why it stands out:
- Jeep’s 4X4 Selec-Terrain system
- 2.0L turbo-diesel performance
- More premium road manners than traditional off-roaders
- Comfortable cabin for long-distance driving
- Strong blend of everyday usability and trail capability
If you want your 4X4 to feel just as comfortable navigating city traffic as it does an unpaved mountain road, the Compass makes a compelling proposition.
Engine & Price: 2.0L Turbo-Diesel, automatic | Around 172 bhp/350 Nm | Approximately ₹18–30.95 lakh*
8. Isuzu V-Cross
The Isuzu V-Cross has carved out a unique space in India as a lifestyle pickup for people who don’t want their adventures confined to paved roads. With a practical cargo bed, imposing stance and genuine 4WD hardware, it is built for buyers who want utility and adventure in the same package.
The current V-Cross uses a 1.9-litre turbo-diesel engine producing 163 hp. Isuzu’s India specification lists 4WD variants with both manual and automatic transmission options.
Why it stands out:
- 4WD capability
- 1.9L turbo-diesel engine
- 163 hp output
- Manual and automatic 4WD options
- Large cargo bed
- Rugged construction suited to adventure use
The V-Cross is particularly appealing if your idea of a road trip includes camping equipment, bikes, luggage and a healthy dose of dirt.
Engine & Price: 1.9L Turbo-Diesel, manual/automatic | 163 hp | From approximately ₹25.50 lakh*
9. Mercedes-Benz G-Class
At this point, we’ve gone from rugged to seriously luxurious. The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is one of the few SUVs in the world that can combine old-school off-road credentials with an ultra-premium cabin and a six-figure attitude.
The G-Class retains the unmistakable boxy silhouette that has defined it for decades, while modern versions bring sophisticated drivetrain and electronic systems. Mercedes-Benz describes the G-Class as retaining the DNA of an off-road vehicle developed in Graz, while its broader SUV range includes 4MATIC all-wheel-drive technology.
The Indian market currently includes the G 450 d AMG Line, with prices around ₹2.9 crore ex-showroom according to current market listings.
Why it stands out:
- Iconic ladder-frame off-road architecture
- Sophisticated four-wheel-drive technology
- Three locking differentials on the traditional G-Class setup
- Exceptional ground clearance and off-road geometry
- Luxury interior and premium technology
- Serious road presence
Of course, very few G-Class owners will regularly take a ₹3-crore SUV through a muddy trail. But the fact that it can handle such terrain while offering the luxury expected at this price is exactly what makes the G-Class special.
Engine & Price: Diesel/Petrol depending on variant | Output varies by version | Around ₹2.9 crore ex-showroom for the G 450 d AMG Line*
10. Toyota Fortuner
The Toyota Fortuner needs little introduction. It has become almost synonymous with the premium 4X4 SUV segment in India, combining a rugged body-on-frame platform with a spacious cabin, strong diesel performance and Toyota’s reputation for durability.
The current Fortuner is available with a 2.8-litre diesel engine producing 204 PS, with six-speed manual and automatic transmission options. Four-wheel-drive variants remain a key part of the lineup.
Why it stands out:
- Proven 4WD system
- 2.8L diesel engine with 204 PS
- Strong highway and off-road capability
- Seven-seat practicality
- High ground clearance
- Extensive Toyota service network
The Fortuner may not be the newest or flashiest SUV here, but its combination of durability, capability, practicality and resale appeal keeps it firmly in the conversation whenever someone asks about the best 4X4 SUVs in India.
Engine & Price: 2.8L Diesel, manual/automatic | 204 PS | From approximately ₹34.76 lakh for the current range*
How to Protect Your 4X4 Car
Buying a 4X4 is often the beginning of the adventure, not the end of it. And if you’re actually going to use your SUV for what it was designed to do, the paint is going to face considerably more abuse than that of a typical city car.
Mud, gravel, loose stones, tree branches, insects, road debris and harsh sunlight can all take their toll on your SUV’s exterior. So, while your 4X4 may be built to take punishment mechanically, its paintwork still deserves some extra attention.
Protect High-Impact Areas With PPF
One of the most effective ways to protect your SUV’s original paint is paint protection film. A high-quality PPF acts as a transparent physical barrier between the paint and everyday hazards such as stone chips, minor scratches and road debris.
For a 4X4, PPF can be especially useful on the bonnet, front bumper, fenders, ORVMs and other areas that are regularly exposed to debris.
If you’re regularly taking your SUV off-road, investing in a professionally installed PPF coating can help preserve the original finish while allowing you to continue enjoying the vehicle without constantly worrying about every branch or stone.
Add Ceramic Protection for Easier Maintenance
PPF isn’t the only option. A professional ceramic coating can add a hydrophobic layer to the vehicle’s surface, helping water, dirt and contaminants roll off more easily.
This can be particularly useful for 4X4 owners because mud and grime are simply part of the experience. Ceramic coating won’t make your SUV scratch-proof or replace PPF in high-impact areas, but it can make routine cleaning and maintenance easier.
Don't Ignore the Interior
A proper car detailing routine is equally important. If you’ve driven through muddy trails, dusty roads or wet terrain, the dirt doesn’t stay outside. It eventually finds its way into the cabin, carpets and upholstery.
Regular professional cleaning can help prevent accumulated dirt and contaminants from becoming permanent stains or unpleasant odours.
Choose the Right PPF Brand and Installer
Not all films are created equal. When choosing the best PPF brand for your 4X4, look beyond the price tag. Film quality, optical clarity, thickness, self-healing performance, warranty, installation quality and after-sales support all matter.
Most importantly, PPF is only as good as its installation. A skilled installer can make a significant difference to the film’s fit, finish and long-term performance.
For 4X4 owners who want to preserve their vehicle’s finish while continuing to explore, a combination of professionally installed PPF, ceramic protection and regular detailing can offer a more complete protection strategy.
Concluding Thoughts
The best 4X4 isn’t necessarily the most expensive one. For some buyers, the compact and capable Maruti Suzuki Jimny will be the perfect adventure companion. For others, the Mahindra Thar or Thar Roxx will strike the right balance between lifestyle appeal and off-road ability. Then there are machines like the Force Gurkha, Toyota Hilux and Fortuner that take ruggedness to another level.
And, of course, if budget isn’t part of the conversation, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class sits at the top of the luxury 4X4 pyramid.
But whichever 4X4 you choose, remember that its adventure-ready hardware isn’t the only thing worth protecting. Your SUV’s paint faces stones, mud, branches, UV exposure and road contaminants every time you take it beyond the city.
That’s where proper protection comes in. A quality PPF car treatment can help defend vulnerable paintwork against physical damage, while ceramic coating and professional car detailing services can make ongoing maintenance easier.
Want to keep your 4X4 looking as tough and fresh as the day you bought it? CarzSpa offers professional paint protection and detailing solutions designed to help preserve your vehicle’s finish, whether you’re driving a Jimny through the hills or a G-Class through the city.
Because an adventure-ready SUV deserves an adventure-ready protection plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which is the best 4X4 car in India?
There is no single winner for everyone. The Mahindra Thar and Jimny are excellent affordable off-roaders, while the Scorpio-N and Fortuner offer greater family practicality. The Gurkha is particularly focused on hardcore off-roading.
2. Which is the most affordable 4X4 car in India?
The Maruti Suzuki Jimny and Mahindra Thar are among the more accessible genuine 4X4 options in India’s new-car market, although pricing depends on the specific 4WD variant and current offers.
3. What is the difference between 4X4 and AWD?
A traditional 4X4 system is generally designed with selectable modes and, in more capable vehicles, low-range gearing for difficult terrain. AWD systems are typically designed primarily for improving traction and stability on roads and varying surfaces.
4. Is PPF worth it for a 4X4 car?
Yes, especially if you regularly drive off-road. PPF can help protect vulnerable painted surfaces from stone chips, scratches, branches and other physical hazards that 4X4s commonly encounter.
5. How can I protect my 4X4 from scratches?
A professionally installed PPF can provide physical protection against many common paint hazards. Ceramic coating can complement it by making the surface easier to clean, while regular car detailing helps remove accumulated mud, dirt and contaminants.
6. Which 4X4 is best for serious off-roading in India?
The Force Gurkha is one of the best choices for serious off-roading, thanks to its 4L gearing, front and rear differential locks, high ground clearance and excellent water-wading capability.
7. Which 4X4 is best for families?
The Mahindra Scorpio-N is a strong family-friendly 4X4, offering seven-seat practicality, a comfortable cabin, strong performance and genuine 4WD capability.
8. Which 4X4 is best under ₹20 lakh?
The Mahindra Thar, Thar Roxx and Maruti Suzuki Jimny are among the best 4X4 options under ₹20 lakh, with the Thar offering a particularly strong mix of performance, capability and value.
9. Which 4X4 has the highest ground clearance?
The Force Gurkha stands out with around 233 mm of ground clearance, giving it an advantage when tackling rocks, deep ruts and uneven off-road terrain.
