4X4 Australia: Best in class

2011’s Best in class 4x4s as judged by 4X4 Autralia

COMPACT 4X4s
These city - and family-friendly fourbies certainly still hold their own in the bush - each has low-range gearing. Clearance can sometimes be a problem, but there are always ways around that. The competitors:Jeep Cherokee, Mitsubishi Challenger, Suzuki Grand Vitara

WINNER: MITSUBISHI CHALLENGER LS
"If you want a vehicle that's economical and capable of handling longer bush trips, the Challenger is a walk-up start, thanks to its off-road credentials, supple ride and diesel engine." - Allan Whiting. Photo: Mark Watson

SHORT-WHEEL BASE 4X4s
Okay, these shorties are still what you'd call compact, but they only have three doors, making them less suitable for families, but a helluva lot of fun for singles and couples! The competitors: Toyota Prado, Suzuki Jimny, Jeep Wrangler, Land Rover Defender.
Photo: Brendon Thorne

WINNER: TOYOTA LANDCRUISER PRADO ZR
"Tough, sophisticated, comfortable, flexible in its interior design, big in towing capacity and the only fourby here that is off-roader, tourer and town car all in one, it gives you much more than any of its rivals will ever manage." - Mick Matheson.
Photo: Brendon Thorne

MID-SIZE 4X4s
Nobody wants to be called a fence-sitter, but the truth is that these fourbies can offer a perfect compromise for families that have that epic off-road jaunt in their sights, but don't want to renovate the shed. The competitors: Mitsubishi Pajero, Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota Prado.
Photo: Mark Watson

WINNER: TOYOTA LANDCRUISER PRADO GX
"Toyota's stingy pricing policy leaves you with less to impress the relos with when you open the Prado's doors for them, but if you're like us and value the outback over the inside, you'll shrug off the lack of lustre and let your trip photos make them envious. That's where the Prado is the real winner." - Mick Matheson.
Photo: Mark Watson

LARGE 4X4s
These bush beasts are perfect for long-distance touring, generally offering a greater payload, better towing capacity, more cargo space and an extra row of seating. The competitors: Land Rover Discovery, Toyota LandCruiser, Nissan Patrol.
Photo: Offroad Images

WINNER: LAND ROVER DISCOVERY
"The heavyweight champion 4X4 in this trio is the Discovery 4. It provides the best value for money, out-performs and out-handles the others, can tow at least as much, and is extremely off-road capable." - Allan Whiting.
Photo: Offroad Images