WE often think of Mercedes, Audi or Range Rover when we hear the term 4×4.
But off-roaders don’t have to cost a fortune – in fact, some can be picked up from as little as £500.
We’ve done the hard work so you don’t have to, with a round-up of the best, but affordable, 4x4s.
Jeep Cherokee XJ
This 4.0-litre petrol guzzling beast is renowned for its dependability, but to save a bit of cash (and the planet), there’s also a 2.5-litre diesel range.
The smaller engine is from Italian company VM Motori and has mixed reviews but according to Autocar, the alternative is “good”.
Working Cherokees are often snapped up so you better be quick!
Toyota Land Cruiser Amazon
The Toyota J100 cruiser were sold from 1998 to 2007 and are still just as popular today.
However, the market reflects that and the cruisers in good condition can fetch as much as £20,000.
That being said, if you fancy a restoration project and can track down a cheap motor – it could set you back far less.
Importing one from Japan could be an idea – where low-milers go for around £13,000.
Fiat Panda
Ok, so you might not look as stylish behind the wheel of the trusty Fiat Panda, but you’ll be saving yourself a fortune.
Don’t be put off by its tiny, narrow wheels and small frame – this evolution of Fiat’s city car is surprisingly capable.
Earlier Pandas were fitted with a 1.2-litre petrol unit with 60bhp and 75lb ft.
The later 4×4 Cross was built with a 1.3-litre urbo diesel with 75bhp and 107lb ft.
Many Fiat Pandas have been dumped because they are uneconomical to repair.
To undertake a do-er upper, a knackered Panda will cost you around £500.
For those not wanting to pop the hood, an immaculate one-owner Cross is around £5,000.
Range Rover P38a
Known as the black sheep of the Range Rover family, the P38a landed itself with a bad reputation.
And for good reason.
It was tarred with the unreliable brush and has the shortest lifespan of any Range Rover.
However, when they are on good form they are excellent and well worth it.
Known in the industry as a ‘modern classic’, the P38a come with price tags of around £10,000.
Again, for those of you who fancy getting your hands dirty – a scrapheap resident could set you back just £1,000.
Dacia Duster
Stylish, practical AND with a small price tag… what’s the catch?
Well, there isn’t.
A sturdy family-sized car, or for those with an active lifestyle and space needed for camping kit and surf boards, the Duster is an excellent choice.
With prices starting at just £1,500, there’s no need to be precious about the paintwork when tearing through muddy tracks.
Suzuki Grand Vitara
If you live off the beaten track, a Suzuki Grand Vitara could be your new best friend.
It conquers rugged terrain with ease once it’s been fitted with off-road tyres.
There are suspension lift kits for those who want to add a little extra.
The car comes in either a three or five-door body, with both sizes offering perks.
The smaller option is better for manoeuvrability but lacks in boot space.
There are four engine sizes, but the 2.4-litre petrol or 1.9 diesel is recommended.
Prices range from under £1,000 for an older model.
Renault Scenic RX4
Again, this car won’t be winning any beauty awards – but who cares?
This motor is a cross-breed of an MPV and a proper 4×4 and can cost as little as £1,000.
The RX4 is sat 210mm higher than the regular Scenic and had some bodywork done.
