When it comes to conquering the toughest of terrains, whether its rugged mountains or sandy deserts, 4×4 cars are the purpose-built machines you want to be in. In recent years, there has been a growth in the number of dedicated 4×4 cars being launched in India. Instead of just the Mahindra Thar and the Force Gurkha being the best options, there are options ranging from the accessible to the luxury. With that said, these are the 4×4 SUVs you can buy in India today.
| Model | Price |
| Mahindra Thar | Rs. 11.35 – 17.60 Lakh |
| Mahindra Thar Roxx | Rs. 12.99 – 22.49 Lakh |
| Maruti Suzuki Jimny | Rs. 12.74 – 14.95 Lakh |
| Force Gurkha | Rs. 16.75 – 18.00 Lakh |
| Mahindra Scorpio N | Rs. 13.85 – 24.54 Lakh |
| Isuzu V-Cross | Rs. 22.20 – 30.96 Lakh |
| Jeep Compass | Rs. 18.99 – 32.41 Lakh |
| Toyota Hilux | Rs. 30.40 – 37.90 Lakh |
| Jeep Meridian | Rs. 24.99 – 38.49 Lakh |
| MG Gloster | Rs. 38.90 – 43.87 Lakh |
| Toyota Fortuner | Rs. 33.43 – 51.44 Lakh |
Table of Contents
- Mahindra Thar
- Mahindra Thar Roxx
- Maruti Suzuki Jimny
- Force Gurkha
- Mahindra Scorpio-N
- Isuzu D-Max V-Cross
- Jeep Compass
- Toyota Hilux
- Jeep Meridian
- MG Gloster
- Toyota Fortuner
- 4×4 Cars In India Summary
- FAQs about 4×4 cars
Mahindra Thar
The Mahindra Thar is an off-roading legend. It’s a two-door SUV with a commanding stance and modern design. The 4WD comes in both Petrol and Diesel. The Mahindra Thar is designed specifically to conquer tough terrains. Along with being a great choice for an off-roading vehicle it also has an iconic and retro design that makes it easily recognizable on the road. Mahindra provides a choice from two different types of roofs like a convertible soft-top and a hard-top. The price for the base model starts at Rs. 11.35 Lakh and the top model price goes up to Rs. 17.60 Lakh (Avg. ex-showroom. Coming to the engine it includes Mahindra’s proven 2.2-litre, four-cylinder engine with a six-speed torque converter automatic. The Thar 4×4 with the automatic powertrain makes for a versatile off-roader. You get the efficiency of a diesel engine with the convenience of an automatic gearbox for everyday driving.
Mahindra Thar Specifications
- Engine: 2.2L
- Transmission: 6-speed AT/MT
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Airbags: 6
- Body Type: SUV
- Seating Capacity: 5
Mahindra Thar 4×4 Features
- Water wading depth: 650mm
- Approach angle: 41.8 degrees
- Departure angle: 36.1 degrees
- Rampover angle: 23.9 degrees
- Differential lock: Yes
Mahindra Thar Roxx
The Mahindra Thar Roxx is designed to be more comfortable and family-oriented as compared to the original Thar, with the addition of the rear doors providing easier access to the second row and the longer wheelbase providing more space in the rear. As the most popular 4×4 on Indian roads, the Thar’s legacy paved the way for the Roxx, which quickly gained popularity among thrill-seekers and 4×4 enthusiasts, clocking over 1.76 lakh bookings within 60 minutes of its launch. Built for off-road adventures, the Thar Roxx comes with impressive 4×4 capabilities, including Crawl Smart for seamless throttle control over obstacles and IntelliTurn for navigating tight U-turns or challenging trails. The Roxx also boasts a 650mm water-wading depth, approach and departure angles of 41.7 and 36.1 degrees. What this means for you is that you can easily handle any adverse situation like a flooded road or steep incline without worry.
The price for the Mahindra Roxx base model starts at Rs. 12.99 Lakh and the price for the top model goes up to Rs. 22.49 Lakh (Avg. ex-showroom). The 2.2-litre 4×4 mHawk diesel gets two power outputs – 150PS/330Nm with the six-speed manual and 172PS/370Nm with the six-speed torque converter automatic. The Mahindra Thar Roxx offers the same engines as the standard Thar, but in the Thar Roxx, these engines are available in different states of tune. Only the diesel-powered MX5, AX5L, and AX7L variants are available with a 4×4 drivetrain.
Mahindra Thar Roxx Specifications
- Engine: 2L Petrol and 2.2 L Diesel
- Transmission: 6-speed AT/MT
- Fuel Type: Petrol and Diesel
- Airbags: 6
- Body Type: SUV
- Seating Capacity: 7
Mahindra Thar 4×4 Features
- Water wading depth: 650mm
- Approach angle: 41.8 degrees
- Departure angle: 36.1 degrees
- Rampover angle: 23.9 degrees
- Differential lock: Yes
Maruti Suzuki Jimny
For adventure enthusiasts seeking off-roading capabilities in a compact form, the Maruti Suzuki Jimny is the perfect choice. The Jimny is a legendary nameplate and it carries forward the Gypsy’s legacy as one of the most affordable and serious 4×4 SUVs in India. Its five-door design enhances practicality, comfort and convenience. The Jimny is decently equipped with modern features and benefits from Maruti’s extensive service network. Maruti Jimny price for the base model starts at Rs. 12.74 Lakh and the top model price goes up to Rs. 15.00 Lakh (Avg. ex-showroom). The Jimny’s 1.5-litre K15B engine is built for off-roading, delivering 104.43PS and 134Nm of torque and comes with an option of a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearbox. Its ladder frame has higher resistance to torsion forces allowing the driver to drive confidently on the toughest of terrains. The Jimny can also move through steep hills and road obstacles with no scraps or dents on its underbody or bumpers. This is due to an ample approach angle of 37 degrees, a departure angle of 49 degrees, as well as a ramp breakover angle of 28 degrees. The all-new Jimny comes with a long-stroke three-link suspension and solid axles on both the front and rear wheels, designed to boost traction on rough terrain. This setup is tougher and more durable than the independent suspensions often used in modern SUVs.
Maruti Suzuki Jimny Specifications
- Engine: 1.5-litre petrol
- Transmission: 5-speed MT/4-speed AT
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Airbags: 6
- Body Type: SUV
- Seating Capacity: 5
Maruti Suzuki Jimny 4×4 Features
- Water wading depth: 300mm
- Approach angle: 36 degrees
- Departure angle: 47 degrees
- Rampover angle: 24 degrees
- Differential lock: Yes
Force Gurkha
The Force Gurkha has been a historical competitor to the Thar. When the Thar got its new generation, so did the Gurkha. Released as a 3-door 4×4 SUV, the Gurkha has also received a 5-door variant, keeping pace with the Thar Roxx. Force Motors Gurkha price for the base model starts at Rs. 16.75 Lakh and the top model price goes up to Rs. 18.00 Lakh (Avg. ex-showroom). The revamped version also gets an updated 2.6-litre four-cylinder diesel engine paired with a four-wheel drive system. It now churns out 139PS and 320Nm of torque as against its older power output of 92PS and 250Nm. Coming to its off-roading capabilities it becomes better with a 233mm ground clearance, 18-inch wheels, 35-degree gradability, and 700mm water-wading capability with the factory-fitted air intake snorkel. The new Gurkha is only for those who need a manual box and a proper off-roader, keeping itself a niche seller rather than a mainstream product.
Force Gurkha Specifications
- Engine: 2.6-litre turbo diesel
- Transmission: 5-speed MT
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Airbags: 2
- Body Type: SUV
- Seating Capacity: 4
Force Gurkha 4×4 Features
- Water wading depth: 700mm
- Approach angle: 37 degrees
- Departure angle: 33 degrees
- Rampover angle: 25 degrees
- Differential lock: Yes
Mahindra Scorpio-N
The Scorpio N is a premium and spacious, three-row SUV, loaded with features and a commanding presence. It has the same engine that powers the XUV700 which is the 2L mStallion TGDi engine. The Scoprio N is also available with the 2.2L mHawk diesel engine for which the higher variant generates about 174 PS and 400 Nm of torque. The diesel engine is known for its fuel efficiency and strong low-end torque, making it ideal for towing and off-road conditions. Both engines are available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. An interesting feature of the Scorpio N is its 4XPLOR terrain mode which optimizes traction for different terrains like snow, sand, mud, or a normal road; it gets 4-Low and 4-High gear options too. The Scorpio N also features a robust ladder-frame chassis, high ground clearance, and advanced suspension, ensuring durability and stability on rough paths. Inside, it balances off-road toughness with modern comforts like a spacious cabin. The Scorpio N is also available with a sunroof that lights up the cabin and comes with roof rails providing space for mounting any additional gear.
Mahindra Scorpio N Specifications
- Engine: 2.2-litre turbo diesel
- Transmission: 6-speed MT/AT
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Airbags: 6
- Body Type: SUV
- Seating Capacity: 7
Mahindra Scorpio N Features
- Water wading depth: 500mm
- Approach angle: 27.1 degrees
- Departure angle: 17.2 degrees
- Rampover angle: 20.1 degrees
- Differential lock: Yes
Isuzu D-Max V-Cross
The Isuzu V-Cross comes in the Pick-Up truck category. It has a dual-cab and is available in 5 variants, with the base model priced at Rs.21.20 Lakh and the top model going up to Rs.30.96 Lakh. Equipped with a robust 1.9-liter diesel engine and a capable 4×4 drivetrain, the V-Cross effortlessly handles challenging terrains like rocky paths, steep inclines, and muddy trails. The Isuzu V-Cross is the most reliable pick-up truck for conquering the toughest of trails in the safest way. The 5-seater interior is spacious allowing one to take road trips with the entire family and also has ample storage space for all sorts of cargo to be carried. The V-Cross comes with an electronic shift-on-the-fly 4WD system with three modes. A true 4×4, the Isuzu V-Cross also offers a ground clearance of 225mm.
Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Specifications
- Engine: 1.9-litre turbo diesel
- Transmission: 5-speed MT/AT
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Airbags: 6
- Body Type: Pickup
- Seating Capacity: 5
Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Features
- Water wading depth: 500mm
- Approach angle: 30 degrees
- Departure angle: 22.4 degrees
- Rampover angle: 22 degrees
- Differential lock: Yes
Jeep Compass
The Jeep Compass can be called a premium 4×4. With a strong 170PS/350Nm 2.0-litre Multijet diesel engine and premium interiors, this SUV is the perfect choice for adventure enthusiasts who want to command the road as well as tough terrain. It comes equipped with a 9-speed Automatic transmission which acts well on the highway and does a great job of extracting the best output from the engine. The 9-speed AT allows the Compass to provide more torque at lower gears for improved traction, giving drivers versatility for mixed terrains. Coming to its 4×4 abilities, Jeep has also equipped the Compass with independent suspension on all four wheels with Frequency Selective Damping which ensures a smooth drive even on the roughest terrains. The Compass also has Active Drive with Selec-Terrain technology which allows it to easily venture in harsh weather conditions like snow and sand.
Jeep Compass Specifications
- Engine: 2.0-litre turbo diesel
- Transmission: 6-speed MT/9-speed AT
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Airbags: 6
- Body Type: SUV
- Seating Capacity: 5
Jeep Compass 4×4/Trailhawk 4×4 Features
- Water wading depth: 405/480mm
- Approach angle: 16.8/30 degrees
- Departure angle: 31.7/34 degrees
- Rampover angle: 24 degrees
- Differential lock: Yes
Toyota Hilux
The Hilux also comes in the pick-up category and is known for its versatility and commanding road presence. Featuring a spacious five-seater cabin, it combines a reasonably feature-loaded interior with an indestructible build quality. The price for the base model starts at Rs. 30.40 Lakh and the top model price goes up to Rs. 37.90 Lakh. The Hilux is powered by a 2.8-litre diesel engine producing 203 PS and 420Nm of torque in the manual version. On the other hand, the automatic version produces the same power and a bumped-up torque of 500Nm. The transmission options include a six-speed manual and a six-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. Toyota offers the 4×4 system as standard for all Hilux variants – an electronic shift-on-the-fly system with 2 high, 4 high, and 4 low. The pickup also features an advanced active traction control system and automatic limited slip differential for the best performance when the going gets tough.
Toyota Hilux Specifications
- Engine: 2.8-litre turbo diesel
- Transmission: 6-speed MT/AT
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Airbags: 7
- Body Type: Pickup
- Seating Capacity: 5
Toyota Hilux 4×4 Features
- Water wading depth: 700mm
- Approach angle: 29 degrees
- Departure angle: 26 degrees
- Rampover angle: 25 degrees
- Differential lock: Yes
Jeep Meridian
The Jeep Meridien is the 7-seater version of the Jeep Compass. Jeep continues its name for producing good off-roading vehicles with the Meridien. It is available in 8 variants, with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine also shared with the Harrier, Safari & Hector and a choice of two transmissions: 6-speed Manual and 9-speed Automatic Torque Convertor. The Multijet diesel unit produces 140PS and 350Nm of torque. The 4×4 is only available with the 9-speed automatic transmission. Talking more about its 4×4 abilities, similar to the compass even the Meridien comes with 4 drive modes – Sand/Mud, Snow and Auto. It also has Frequency Selective Damping Suspension which allows the car to adjust its damping characteristics according to the wheel movements providing optimal balance ensuring a smooth off-roading experience. Jeep Meridian price for the base model starts at Rs. 24.99 Lakh and the top model price goes up to Rs. 38.49 Lakh. The Meridien is mainly set apart from the Compass due to its higher ground clearance of 214 mm making it 36mm taller.
Jeep Meridian Specifications
- Engine: 2.0-litre turbo diesel
- Transmission: 6-speed MT/9-speed AT
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Airbags: 6
- Body Type: SUV
- Seating Capacity: 7
Jeep Meridian 4×4 Features
- Water wading depth: NA
- Approach angle: 21.5 degrees
- Departure angle: 23.6 degrees
- Rampover angle: 23.1 degrees
- Differential lock: Yes
MG Gloster
The MG Gloster is a 6-seater premium SUV built for off-roading adventures. The Gloster is often picked by people who prefer comfort even in their off-roading adventures. It comes with a 2.0-litre diesel engine and a choice of one transmission: Automatic. The Gloster comes with a dual helix independent suspension system which means that each front wheel has its own suspension system, allowing them to move independently improving handling and comfort on uneven surfaces. It is also equipped with a 5-link integral unit for the rear. The 5-link integral unit for the rear connects the rear axle to the vehicle using five separate links, providing stability and flexibility for the rear wheels. This combination is designed to enhance both comfort and control by adapting to road conditions and maintaining stability, especially during turns or off-road driving. Adding to this are the electro-mechanical locking differential and a BorgWarner transfer case equipped with a 4×4 system that comes with a real-time on-demand 4×4 system. MG Gloster price for the base model starts at Rs. 38.80 Lakh and the top model price goes up to Rs. 43.87 Lakh. The Gloster also offers 210mm of ground clearance and a water-wading capacity of 550mm.
MG Gloster Specifications
- Engine: 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel
- Transmission: 8-Speed AT
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Airbags: 7
- Body Type: SUV
- Seating Capacity: 7
MG Gloster 4×4 Features
- Water wading depth: 550mm
- Approach angle: 28 degrees
- Departure angle: 25 degrees
- Rampover angle: 20 degrees
- Differential lock: Yes
Toyota Fortuner
The Fortuner is a very popular SUV on Indian roads. It’s known for its reliability, commanding road-presence and most importantly its true 4×4 capability. The Fortuner not only has a powerful 2.8-litre diesel engine that puts out 203 PS to all four wheels with the help of a 6-speed manual and an automatic gearbox but it’s also spacious with a 7-seat configuration across three rows. The first and second rows provide comfortable seating with ample legroom, while the third row is best suited for children or shorter trips due to its more compact space. Talking about its 4×4 capabilities, it comes equipped with DAC (Downhill Assist Control) as well as Active Traction Control making it a suitable vehicle for tough and steep terrains. The part time 4WD system with a low-range gearbox allows it to tackle muddy and rocky paths with ease. The Fortuner also has high ground clearance of 220 mm making it a tall vehicle to take on rocky rides without bringing any damage to its undercarriage. The price for the base model starts at Rs. 33.43 Lakh and the top model price goes up to Rs. 51.44 Lakh. The Fortuner’s high ground clearance of 225 mm allows one to glide over obstacles with ease, while the robust ladder-frame chassis adds durability, giving it the toughness needed for extreme terrains.
Toyota Fortuner Specifications
- Engine: 2.0-litre turbo diesel
- Transmission: 6-speed MT/ AT
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Airbags: 7
- Body Type: SUV
- Seating Capacity: 7
Toyota Fortuner 4×4 Features
- Water wading depth: 700mm
- Approach angle: 29 degrees
- Departure angle: 25 degrees
- Rampover angle: 25 degrees
- Differential lock: Yes
4×4 Cars In India Summary
India’s diverse terrain demands vehicles that can navigate these terrains with ease. The 4×4 category of SUV’s is the perfect choice for thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts that want to conquer tough terrain with a vehicle that keeps heads turning. A true 4×4, or four-wheel-drive system, powers all four wheels simultaneously, offering better traction and control on tough surfaces. While many SUVs in India boast off-road capabilities, only a handful truly follow the 4×4 format, offering the raw power and ruggedness needed for serious off-roading. Whether you’re seeking compact agility, pickup reliability, or SUV luxury, this article has something for everyone who loves exploring the road less traveled.
FAQs about 4×4 cars
Q. What makes a 4×4 a suitable car for off-roading?
4×4 vehicles provide power to all four wheels, increasing traction and stability on rugged and uneven surfaces. They also come with features like differential locks, high ground clearance, and water-wading capabilities to tackle challenging terrains.
Q. Which is the most affordable 4×4 in India?
The Maruti Suzuki Jimny, with prices starting at Rs. 12.74 lakh is one of the most affordable and capable 4×4 SUVs in India.
Q. Is a differential lock standard on all 4×4 vehicles?
No, while most 4×4 SUVs offer a differential lock, the feature may vary by model or trim. The differential lock improves traction by preventing wheels from spinning freely, which is especially useful on slippery or uneven terrains.
Q. How does water wading depth affect off-road performance?
Water-wading depth is the maximum height of water a 4×4 can cross without damaging the engine or electrical components. Higher depths, like the Force Gurkha’s 700 mm, allow crossing deep streams, while most 4x4s offer between 500-700 mm.
Q. What are the best 4×4 options for beginners in off-roading?
Beginner-friendly models like the Mahindra Thar and Maruti Suzuki Jimny offer intuitive controls and solid off-road capabilities. These models are more affordable, easier to maneuver, and have support communities for off-roaders.
