India's diverse landscapes, which range from smooth highways to rugged off-road trails, have led to the current surge in 4x4 vehicle ownership. Four-wheel driving, or simply 4x4, is a type of drivetrain that can simultaneously generate torque from all wheels. 

While there are not many 4x4 car models in the market compared to regular ones, Indian buyers have a wide variety of products to select from. These reliable vehicles provide better grip, balance, and handling qualities, enabling them to sail through poor weather conditions.

Moreover, if you plan to buy a car, remember that the Motor Vehicles Act requires all cars on public roads in India to have car insurance. Thus, your car is free from being impounded for traffic fines exceeding the due date, license suspension, and lawsuits with third parties.

The 4-wheel drive cars in India are mainly attractive to young people because they are robust and high-performance but can also be affordable. 

In the following section, we have provided a list of the best 4-wheel drive cars in India that you can choose from to buy for yourself.

1. Mahindra Thar | Starting ₹10.54 Lakh

Mahindra Thar is an iconic vehicle known for its off-road toughness and purposeful build. This 4x4-wheel drive car is the undisputed champion for conquering rough terrain. While maintaining a sturdy and solid frame structure, the vehicle has enhanced features and high-torque engines that make it unrivaled on steep rises and thrilling routes. 

Its exemplary instantaneous torque and amazing ability to move obstacles gathered for any terrain portray its true definition of ruggedness. 

Key Specifications:

• Engine: 2.0-litre petrol, 2.2-litre diesel
• Maximum Power: 130 bhp
• Maximum Torque: 300 Nm
• Transmission: 6-speed manual / 6-speed automatic
• Mileage: 15.2 kmpl
• Fuel Type: Diesel/Petrol
• Seating Capacity: 4
• Safety Features: A 650 mm water wading depth, an approach angle of 41.8 degrees, a departure angle of 36.8 degrees, and a ramp-over angle of 27 degrees.

2. Maruti Suzuki Jimny | Starting ₹12.74 Lakh

This tight 4x4 SUV has revived Gypsy, a model synonymous with affordability and a high level of ruggedness. It is now the off-road car of choice. The Jimny is run by a 1.5-litre petrol engine that delivers 104 ps and 134 Nm and comes with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. 

However, the ability to go off-road is really the reason you would own this 4x4 system with low-range transfer gear. It features a rectangular body, leaf spring suspension, and a frame in the shape of the rungs of a ladder. This vehicle can go as far as your imagination takes you, hence its reputation as a legend among off-roaders.

Key Specifications:

• Engine: K15B petrol engine
• Maximum Power: 103 bhp
• Maximum Torque: 134.2 Nm
• Transmission: 4-speed automatic, 5-speed manual
• Mileage: 16 kmpl
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Seating Capacity: 4
• Safety Features: A 300-mm water-wading depth, an approach angle of 36 degrees, a departure angle of 47 degrees, and a rampover angle of 24 degrees.

3. Mahindra Scorpio N | Starting ₹13.60 Lakh

The Mahindra Scorpio N is the upcoming third generation of one of India's best-selling Sport Utility Vehicles (SUV) brands. The upcoming Scorpio remains true to its predecessor on several fronts, notably in engine choices, with petrol and diesel variants being available and diesel engine versions being offered with 4×4 on select variants. 

The Lister powertrain is engaged by a 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel, which officially delivers 172 bhp and an astonishing 400 Nm torque. The transmission range comprises a 6-speed manual and an automatic 6-speed, tailored to the preferences of various drivers.

Key Specifications:

• Engine: 2.2-litre turbo diesel
• Maximum Power: 172.45 bhp
• Maximum Torque: 400 Nm
• Transmission: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic
• Mileage: 14-18 kmpl 
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Seating Capacity: 7
• Safety Features: A 500 mm water-wading depth, an approach angle of 27.1 degrees, a departure angle of 17.2 degrees, and a rampover angle of 20.1 degrees.

4. Toyota Hilux | Starting ₹13.99 Lakh

The Toyota Hilux is an industry-leading pickup truck that entirely rules the pickup truck segment in India. An iconic nameplate and the world's most popular Japanese lift-up, the Hilux is contrived by a significant 2.8-litre diesel engine. Toyota equipped all Hilux versions with the 4x4 in a factory option, including an electronic shift-on-the-fly system selected in 2-high, 4-high, and 4-low modes. 

This highly capable pickup has robust off-road systems, such as active traction control and a limited-strength automatic differential, enabling excellent performance in even the harshest environments.

Key Specifications:

• Engine: 2.8-litre diesel
• Maximum Power: 204 bhp
• Maximum Torque: 500 Nm
• Transmission: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic
• Mileage: 10 kmpl
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Safety Features: A Water-wading depth of 700 mm, an approach angle of 29 degrees, a departure angle of 26 degrees, and a rampover angle of 25 degrees.

5. Force Gurkha | Starting ₹15.10 Lakh

The Force Gurkha is a game changer in the terrain world. It is designed to perform and excel in the severe lands. Its rugged looks represent its formidable qualities, and it is perfect for driving over trail rocks or wet crossings. 

Featuring great ground clearance and maximum traction, the Gurkha is sure to thrill and excite those looking for adventure and outdoor activities.

Key Specifications:

• Engine: 2.6-litre turbo diesel
• Maximum Power: 89.84 bhp
• Maximum Torque: 250 Nm
• Transmission: 5-speed manual
• Mileage: 17 kmpl
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Safety features: A 700 mm water wading depth, an approach angle of 37 degrees, a departure angle of 33 degrees, and a rampover angle of 25 degrees.

6. Jeep Compass | Starting ₹20.69 Lakh

The only choice for drivers who want a sports utility vehicle that can fulfil their requirements is the Jeep Compass. The compact version of the Fortuner, the Compass, has diesel and petrol engine options, with its sedan model diesel variant having a 4x4 drivetrain. 

The standard option is a 6-speed manual transmission, and the automatic variant is a 6-speed model. Conversely, the high-end model takes slightly higher with a nine-speed automatic transmission.

Key Specifications:

• Engine: 2.2-litre turbo diesel
• Maximum Power: 172.45 bhp
• Maximum Torque: 400 Nm
• Transmission: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic
• Mileage: 14.44 kmpl
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Seating Capacity: 7
• Safety features: A 500 mm water-wading depth, an approach angle of 27.1 degrees, a departure angle of 17.2 degrees, and a rampover angle of 20.1 degrees.

7. Isuzu D-Max V-Cross | Starting ₹22.09 Lakh

The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross embodies style, convenience, and ruggedness that is hard to come by. This heavy-duty pickup truck provides a hard-working engine and cutting-edge safety devices, together with enough room for passengers, to be a necessary vehicle for overcoming challenging terrain and daily use.

With its majestic size and high towing ability, the D-Max V-Cross owns the landscape and provides the thrill and reliability outdoor enthusiasts and professionals need.

Key Specifications:

• Engine: 1.9-litre turbo diesel
• Maximum Power: 150 bhp
• Maximum Torque: 350 Nm
• Transmission: 6-speed manual / 6-speed automatic
• Mileage: 12.4 kmpl
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Safety features: A 500 mm water wading depth, an approach angle of 30 degrees, a departure angle of 22.4 degrees, and a rampover angle of 22 degrees.

8. Hyundai Tucson | Starting ₹29.02 Lakh

The third-gen Tucson provides diesel AWD, Sporty premium interiors, Level 2 ADAS tech, and many more features. It has a 2.0-litre turbo diesel (163PS/320Nm) and an 8-speed auto transmission, which is enough for good performance. Although it cannot compare to the hardcore ones of its competitors, it is a decent balancing combination of sophistication and capability.

Key Specifications:

• Engine: 2.0-litre diesel
• Maximum Power: 183.72 bhp
• Maximum Torque: 400 Nm
• Transmission: 6-speed MT, 6-speed AT
• Mileage: 16.4 kmpl
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Seating Capacity: 5 
• Safety features: A Water-wading depth of 388 mm, an approach angle of 18.3 degrees, a departure angle of 25.6 degrees, and a rampover angle of 19.3 degrees.

9. Toyota Fortuner | Starting ₹33.5 Lakh

Immersed in luxury and off-road ability, the Toyota Fortuner is the fashion icon of the 4X4 segment. The prowess of the high-end powerful engine that thrives on the combination of supreme 4x4 technology sets this SUV up for unlimited challenges and a diversity of terrains, be they in the city or the forest.

Its large, nicely built interior and rough exterior make the Fortuner perfect for urban and off-road driving. This great SUV rules the road with durability, power, and flexibility unified in one car.

Key Specifications:

• Engine: 1.4-litre turbo petrol / 2.0-litre diesel
• Maximum Power: 163 bhp / 173 bhp
• Maximum Torque: 250 Nm / 350 Nm
• Transmission: 6-speed manual / 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
• Mileage:  14.4 kmpl
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Safety features: A 405/480 mm water-wading depth, an approach angle of 16.8/30 degrees, a departure angle of 16.8/30 degrees, and a rampover angle of 24 degrees.

10. MG Gloster | Starting ₹38.80 Lakh

MG launched a challenge for the Toyota Fortuner with a superb class leader—the Gloster. Bigger than any of its rivals, this SUV delivers big blows with 2 2.0-litre turbo diesel engines available. The 4WD system is an extra attribute only available with the more powerful engine version. 

It features an electro-mechanical locking differential. With the 210 mm ground clearance and 550 mm water-wading capacity features, this MG can pose a formidable challenge in off-road driving.

Key Specifications:

• Engine: 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel
• Maximum Power: 215 bhp
• Maximum Torque: 480 Nm
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic
• Mileage: 13.27 kmpl
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Seating Capacity: 7 
• Safety Features: A 550-mm water-wading depth, an approach angle of 28 degrees, a departure angle of 25 degrees, and a rampover angle of 20 degrees.

11. Land Rover Defender | Starting ₹93.55 Lakh

The Land Rover Defender is a modern icon, indicating the company's heritage and proving its reliability when off-road. It impressively integrates superior functionality and beautiful styling, which re-establishes the yardstick of modern 4x4 vehicle/s. It is a fantastic vehicle packed with cutting-edge technology, advanced off-road capabilities, and a luxurious interior. 

This is a perfect option for those looking for an extraordinary drive rather than a conventional driving experience.

Key Specifications:

• Engine: 2.0-litre turbo petrol / 2.0-litre diesel / 3.0-litre turbocharged
• Maximum Power: 296 bhp / 197 bhp
• Maximum Torque: 400 Nm / 430 Nm
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic
• Mileage: 10 kmpl
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Seating Capacity: 7 
• Safety Features: A Water-wading depth of 900 mm, an approach angle of 38 degrees, a departure angle of 37.7 – 40.0 degrees, and a ramp-over angle of 22–28 degrees.

The complex terrain of India has planted the seed of demand for robust 4x4 vehicles that incorporate innovative ideas. From classic brands to high-end models, automakers are going further and further with the technology and safety features, premium craftsmanship, and advanced interiors in the terrain envisioned by off-roaders. 

As this segment continues to explore the unknown with an ever-growing thirst for adventure, it will continue to reinvent what it means for a person to conquer the less-travelled roads. 

Moreover, you should not forget to obtain a third-party car insurance policy, which is a mandatory requirement. The policy's coverage is limited to third-party personal injury or property damage liabilities in any unplanned case of an accident.