10 of the Best Cheap Used 4x4s and Off-Roaders
As winter approaches, if you live somewhere where the weather can take a turn for the worst, you will likely want to look at owning something with four-wheel drive. You might think these are expensive, but there are plenty of cheap 4×4 cars available, starting from just a few thousand pounds. Ranging from small off-roaders to bigger SUVs, let’s take a look at the best options.
The Cazoo editorial team
Published on 20 March 2025 | 1 min read
Used cars have never been more in demand, thanks to their excellent value and availability when compared with new cars.
To help you choose the one that’s right for you, we’ve selected what we think are the best used cars of 2025 in each of 15 key categories.
1. Suzuki Jimny
Suzuki’s Jimny has become an icon in the small 4×4 world, with the latest version especially being a huge hit. But if you’re looking for something a little cheaper, it’s worth searching for the version for. Sold for 20 years between 1998 and 2018, given the minimal changes made to it over the course of its life, you won’t be majorly penalised for going with an older car instead.
Renowned for its go-anywhere ability, the Jimny is remarkably capable in tough conditions, and is a popular choice in mountainous regions. It’s quite no-frills in terms of driving manners and equipment, but is ideal if you do mainly local miles and want a cheap used 4×4 that has genuine off-road capability.
2. Skoda Yeti
The Yeti arrived in 2009 as Skoda’s first SUV, and quickly developed quite a following. Applying Skoda’s key strengths – value and versatility – into a compact 4×4, it is one of the best used SUVs on the market.
The boxy design has aged very well, and is arguably more interesting than the firm’s latest SUVs. This square shape also gives the Yeti a very roomy interior, while plenty of practical touches like hidden storage areas and sliding rear seats make it a great choice. Not all Yetis were sold with four-wheel drive, so make sure to search specifically for 4×4 cars if that’s what you require.
3. Dacia Duster
You’ll struggle to find a car with a more universal appeal than the Volkswagen Golf, because there are so many versions to choose from and it’s good at just about everything.
You’ll find two different versions of the Golf for sale – the latest model, which has been on sale new since 2020, and the previous version (pictured), which was sold new between 2013 and 2020. Both are excellent cars, giving you lots of desirable features, enough space for four adults and their luggage, a choice of efficient engines and a smooth, satisfying drive.
4. Toyota RAV4
Toyota is renowned for making some of the most reliable cars around, and if that’s a top priority when shopping for a cheap 4×4, you should take a look at the RAV4. This mid-seat SUV is an ideal size for families, and it’s the fourth generation model we recommend, sold between 2013 and 2019.
Look out for a four-wheel drive model and you’ll have something that’s very useful in all weathers. It’s not a proper off-roader, but will certainly get you further in the snow or mud than other cars of this class. You can also choose a RAV4 of this age with a more efficient self-charging petrol hybrid setup.
5. Kia Sportage
If you’re after a do-anything four-wheel-drive which won’t cost the earth, then the Kia Sportage could be a very solid option. It marked a turning point for Kia, this car, revealing the firm’s premium aspirations as well as its ability to make a family car that could still be good to drive.
You’ll need to opt for the more powerful 2.0-litre diesel-powered versions to get four-wheel-drive, too. But this powertrain is very robust and punchy, providing a decent amount of performance to ensure that the Sportage gets up to speed in a good time. Hooked up to an automatic gearbox it makes for a very well-rounded setup. Remember, too, that with Kia’s seven-year transferable warranty, you could still find a used Sportage with some cover left intact.
6. Fiat Panda 4x4
The Fiat Panda might be better known for buzzing around narrow Italian city streets, but this compact model has also been offered as a 4×4 over the years. Underestimate the Panda’s ability at your peril, too, as it’s monstrously capable off-road or in challenging conditions. The fact it’s a popular choice of vehicle in Alpine ski resorts says a lot about how talented it is.
It manages to retain the Panda’s dinky dimensions too, while you’ll find it’s cheaper to run than many other 4x4s, albeit not quite as frugal as standard versions of this Fiat. We’d recommend the latest generation of Panda, which has been on sale since 2012.
7. Suzuki Ignis
Everyone has a different idea of what makes a great SUV but when it comes to ticking all the boxes, few do it as well as the Audi Q5. It has all the quality and high-tech features you expect of an Audi, wrapped up in a stylish SUV package that gives you a high driving position and lots of interior space.
Every version is smooth and enjoyable to drive and you have a wide range of models to choose from. The latest model (pictured), on sale new since 2017, has four-wheel drive and an automatic gearbox as standard and it feels like a truly premium product.
8. Land Rover Discovery 4
No list of the best 4×4 cars could be complete without a Land Rover. This brand’s SUVs remain as capable as ever, being able to go further than almost any other cars on the road. One of the top picks is the Discovery 4, which was sold between 2009 and 2017. It’s a hugely practical seven-seater that’s ideal for larger families, with room even in the rearmost seats for taller passengers.
Equipped with Land Rover’s Advanced Terrain Response system, the Discovery 4 is useful in a variety of conditions, whether it be ice, snow or mud, for example. While used prices for a Discovery 4 start from around £5,000, and you get a lot of car for your money, you need to consider that maintenance costs could potentially be quite high.
9. Jeep Renegade
Jeep is another top name when it comes to off-roaders, and though you might imagine something like a Wrangler, if you’re looking for something cheaper to buy and own, we would recommend a Renegade. Up until recently, it was Jeep’s smallest SUV, yet still brought legendary 4×4 talent, though only on models equipped with four-wheel drive.
Jeep also offered a ‘Trailhawk’ version, equipped with various additional off-roading features and underbody protection to make it remarkably talented. The Renegade’s fun styling and generous equipment levels make it a particularly appealing used 4×4.
10. Volkswagen Tiguan
Volkswagen might not be the first car firm you think of when it comes to cheap 4x4s, but thanks to the ‘4Motion’ system in the mid-size Tiguan crossover, there’s surprising levels of all-weather capability on offer. We recommend the first-generation Tiguan, sold between 2008 and 2016, which still feels fairly modern yet is now available at a fairly affordable price.
Four-wheel drive versions of the Tiguan are available with both petrol and diesel engines, while this Volkswagen has the firm’s renowned high-quality feel. Even as this SUV goes past 15 years old, early examples still feel remarkably solid.
Why should you buy a 4×4 or off-roader?
Greater driving confidence
If you don’t have all that much confidence driving in winter or poor weather, a 4×4 can most certainly help you feel more secure.
With all wheels driven, the car will have greater traction on the road, which can help in snow and ice, but also in heavy rain, which we’re susceptible to a lot of here in the UK.
Winter driving
But a 4×4 can also be useful if you live somewhere that’s not particularly accessible, especially during the winter months.
If you’re worried about being ‘snowed in’ or have an essential job that requires you to be out and about, these models will most certainly help you out. Granted, there are some winter weather conditions that even the best 4×4 can’t assist in.
What should you consider before buying a cheap 4×4/off-roader?
Before you settle on a 4×4, however, there are a few things you should consider.
Do you need the 4×4 ability?
While you might think you need a 4×4, it’s worth considering how often you would need a four-wheel drive system, especially if you live in a town or city.
These 4x4s are often more expensive to buy, fuel and service than a two-wheel drive car, so it’s worth weighing up if you really need one.
Are there signs of off-roading damage?
Just because a car is a 4×4 it doesn’t mean it’s an ‘off-roader’, which some previous owners might not have realised. Before buying any used 4×4, we recommend inspecting it thoroughly for signs of damage that might have come from extreme off-roading.
If a 4×4 has also had mud on the underside for a period of time, it can cause corrosion, so look out for this too. If there’s the option to get the car on ramps or take someone with greater knowledge than you, both are worth doing.
Tips for finding and buying a cheap 4×4/off-roader
At Cazoo, we list thousands of cars every month, and a good percentage of these are 4x4s, some of which start from just a few thousand pounds. It means there are plenty of options, depending on the type of used 4×4 you’re looking for.
Go and view the car, inspect it for any damage as we’ve already mentioned and make sure you can get comfortable behind the wheel as well. On the test drive, while making sure you like the 4×4, also listen out for any noises as this could point towards potential issues with the vehicle.
Find a cheap 4x4 or off-roader with Cazoo
If you’ve decided a 4×4 car is right for you, it’s time to begin your search. These vehicles offer plenty of capability for those who struggle with confidence for driving in bad weather, as well as those wanting something more useful off-road.
As our guide has shown, cheap 4x4s come in all shapes and sizes, from the Fiat Panda 4×4 to the Land Rover Discovery 4, there’s a great range of models to suit various budgets and tastes. Search thousands of used 4x4s at Cazoo to find the right cheap 4×4 for you.