Exploring Australia: Choosing The Best 4Wd Companion

Australia is a land of beautiful contrasts, from sun-kissed beaches to rugged mountain ranges. And what better way to explore the country than by travelling in a 4x4?

The Australian 4WD market is dynamic and ever-evolving, with enthusiasts and families seeking vehicles that provide reliability and sturdiness to traverse tough conditions, as well as comfort and amenities for daily driving.

When it comes to choosing the best 4WD for your needs, there are several factors to consider. Do you prioritise comfort, ease of use, and the ability to fit surfboards in the back? Or are you keen on getting off the beaten track and don't mind a little bounce in your wheels?

Let's take a look at some of the top options available and see which one might be the best fit for your Australian adventure.

Vans vs. 4WDs

Vans

Vans have a lot of advantages over 4WDs for travelling around Australia. Here are some of their pros:

• Space and layout options: Vans have more space inside than a 4WD, and there are infinite ways to approach a van fit-out. You can keep as much headroom as possible or build in a lot of storage and other functionality, like a camp kitchen and fridge.
• Creature comforts: All that space means more comfort when camping. No more folding seats and cramming into unnatural positions! You can stretch out fully or include more amenities for gourmet camp cuisine.
• Minimal setup: Vans are great for those who want to get out and explore without the faff of setting up a camper trailer, caravan, tent or rooftop camper.
• Built to last: Commercial-grade vans are designed to run for ages and clock up serious kilometres.
• Insulation and privacy: Vans offer better insulation against temperature and noise, along with more privacy.
• Fuel economy and running costs: Vans generally have better fuel economy than 4WDs, and are lighter on the bank account when it comes to running costs.

4WDs

However, 4WDs have their own benefits. Here are some pros for off-road travel in Australia:

• Access: Australia is a huge country with dramatic environmental changes. A versatile vehicle is necessary to cope with the muddy and dusty Old Telegraph Track in the north, the barren and sandy Simpson Desert in the middle, and the icy Victorian High Country in the south. The best of the best adventures are only accessible with a 4WD.
• Toughness: 4WDs are made to be durable, with strong suspension designed to maintain clearance on rough tracks and carry heavy loads.
• Safety in remote areas: 4WDs have safety features like bullbars and the engine space to protect you from kangaroos, which have a knack for jumping out in front of vehicles.
• Towing capacity: If you want to travel with a caravan or trailer, you'll need the extra grunt of a 4WD.

So, which is better? It all depends on your priorities. If comfort, ease of use and being able to fit in things like surfboards are high on your list, a van might be for you. But if you're keen to get off the beaten track and don't mind a bumpy ride, a 4WD is probably your best bet.

Best 4WDs for off-road adventures

There are several factors to consider when choosing a 4WD vehicle for off-road adventures in Australia. The vehicle should be tough, practical, and functional, with a good range of aftermarket accessories available to suit different needs. Additionally, it should have good off-road capability, touring range, load-carrying capacity, and reliability. While modern vehicles offer more comfort and convenience features, older models are often simpler to fix and more reliable. Here are some of the best 4WDs for off-road adventures in Australia:

Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series

The LandCruiser 70 Series checks off almost every attribute required for a long-haul, remote-area off-road tourer. It has a sturdy build with a full box-section separate chassis, live axles, and coil springs at the front, and leaf springs at the rear. The simple design provides good chassis flexibility, body isolation from road noise and vibrations, excellent wheel travel, and load-carrying capacity. The 4.5-litre V8 turbodiesel engine is fuel-efficient and reliable, making it ideal for hauling heavy loads or towing trailers. The LandCruiser 70 Series also offers a good range of aftermarket accessories and has a wide service network across Australia.

Land Rover Defender (1990-2016)

The previous-generation Land Rover Defender is a capable off-road vehicle with a lineage that traces back to the original Land Rover launched in 1948. It has a rugged build with a separate chassis, live axles, and long-travel coil springs. The 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine delivers a balance of fuel efficiency and performance. The Defender offers ample cargo space and a variety of accommodation options. It also has a high level of luxury, including a modern dashboard, ventilation/air-conditioning system, and optional leather trim. While Land Rover's reliability reputation is mixed, the Defender is sold worldwide, making it easy to source parts.

Nissan Patrol GU

The Nissan Patrol GU is a simple and tough design well-suited for remote-area travel. It features a separate chassis, live axles, and coil springs, with an optional leaf spring setup for some cab chassis variants. The wide track and long wheelbase provide a stable platform for carrying gear, and it's available in wagon or single cab chassis configurations. The Patrol GU has been on the market since 1997, so there's a wide range of aftermarket accessories available. It offers good towing and carrying capacity and a spacious and comfortable interior. Parts are readily available in Australia and many other countries.

Jeep Wrangler JK

The Jeep Wrangler JK makes the list due to its exceptional off-road capability and the availability of aftermarket accessories. It has a separate chassis design, live axles, and coil springs. The 2.8-litre common rail diesel engine provides a balance of power and fuel efficiency. The Wrangler is available in a traditional two-door short wheelbase or the four-door long wheelbase Unlimited model, offering more interior space. The Wrangler's aftermarket accessories include suspension lifts, protection equipment, diff locks, super low-range reduction, cargo systems, and long-range fuel tanks.

Ford Ranger/Mazda BT-50 (circa 2016)

The Ford Ranger and its twin, the Mazda BT-50, are significantly larger than competitors like the HiLux, Navara, and Triton. They are built on a separate chassis with a live axle rear end and an independent front end. These vehicles offer excellent load and towing capacity, making them suitable for hauling gear for remote area expeditions. The 3.2-litre five-cylinder turbodiesel engine is the pick of the two available options, providing ample power and fuel efficiency. The Ranger and BT-50 have excellent off-road capability, enhanced by a combination of electronic and mechanical traction aids. There is a wide range of aftermarket accessories available for these vehicles, and they offer comfortable rides for long stints behind the wheel.

Toyota LandCruiser 100 Series (Standard HZJ105R)

The Toyota LandCruiser 100 Series, specifically the Standard HZJ105R model, is a capable and reliable option for off-road adventures. This base-spec model was manufactured from 1998 to 2007 and was the last to be fitted with live axles and coil springs all around. While it has a basic interior and a modest engine, the 4.2-litre six-cylinder diesel engine is reliable and can be easily fixed if something goes wrong. The Standard HZJ105R provides a blank canvas for modifications, and there are plenty of aftermarket accessories available. Parts for this model can be sourced worldwide, and it can be found on the second-hand market for as little as $10,000.

4WDs for long-haul expeditions

When it comes to choosing a 4WD for long-haul expeditions, there are several factors to consider. The vehicle should be tough, practical, and functional, with a good range of aftermarket accessories available to suit your needs. Additionally, simplicity in design and engineering can be advantageous for remote travel, as it allows for easier repairs in the event of a breakdown. Other important considerations include off-road capability, touring range, load-carrying capacity, and reliability.

Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series

The LandCruiser 70 Series checks off almost every attribute required for a long-haul, remote-area touring vehicle. It has a robust build, with a full box-section separate chassis, live axles, and coil springs at the front, and leaf springs at the rear. This design provides good chassis flexibility, body isolation from road noise and vibrations, excellent wheel travel, and impressive load-carrying capacity.

The LandCruiser is powered by a reliable and fuel-efficient 4.5-litre V8 turbodiesel engine, making it ideal for hauling heavy loads or towing large trailers. It offers a spacious interior, a large fuel tank for extended range, and a wide range of aftermarket accessories, including protection equipment, suspension kits, and roof racks.

Land Rover Defender (1990-2016)

The previous-generation Land Rover Defender is a capable and rugged vehicle for long-distance travel. With its aluminium body and box-section separate chassis, the Defender offers excellent off-road capability and payload capacity. The 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine delivers a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, making it well-suited for remote expeditions.

The Defender provides a unique driving experience with its cramped cabin, but it also offers a high level of luxury, including a modern dashboard, ventilation/air-conditioning system, and optional leather trim. It has a strong aftermarket following, with a wide range of accessories available, such as protection equipment, roof racks, and cargo systems.

Nissan Patrol GU

The Nissan Patrol GU is a simple and tough design, well-suited for remote-area travel. It features a box-section separate chassis, live axles, and coil springs, providing a stable platform for carrying all the gear you need on extended trips. The Patrol has a simple part-time 4WD system and reasonable low-range gearing.

The ZD30 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine may not have the best track record for reliability, but the older mechanically injected TD42T 4.2-litre turbodiesel engine is a more reliable option, according to experts. The Patrol offers a spacious interior, good towing capacity, and a wide range of aftermarket accessories, making it a solid choice for long-haul expeditions.

Jeep Wrangler JK

The Jeep Wrangler JK makes the list due to its exceptional off-road capability and the availability of numerous aftermarket modifications. While the Wrangler Rubicon spec offers super low-range gearing, the base-spec Wrangler Sport is also a very capable off-roader.

The Wrangler has a separate chassis design, live axles, and coil springs all around. The 2.8-litre common rail diesel engine delivers ample power and torque, and fuel economy can be as good as 10L/100km. The Wrangler is available in both short and long wheelbase versions, providing options for different expedition needs.

Ford Ranger/Mazda BT-50 (circa 2016)

The Ford Ranger and its twin, the Mazda BT-50, are larger than competitors like the HiLux, Navara, and Triton. They offer impressive load and towing capacities, making them well-suited for remote area expeditions. The 3.2-litre five-cylinder turbodiesel engine is the pick of the two available options, delivering excellent performance and fuel efficiency.

These vehicles offer a combination of electronic and mechanical traction aids, enhancing their off-road capability. They also have a wide range of aftermarket accessories available, including protection gear, suspension kits, and long-range fuel tanks. The Ranger/BT-50 provides excellent comfort for long stints behind the wheel, making them a great choice for long-haul expeditions.

Toyota LandCruiser 100 Series (Standard HZJ105R)

The Toyota LandCruiser 100 Series, specifically the Standard HZJ105R model, is a capable and reliable option for long-haul expeditions. This base-spec model, produced from 1998 to 2007, was the last to be fitted with live axles and coil springs all around, providing better off-road capability.

While the 1HZ indirect injection, naturally aspirated 4.2-litre diesel engine may be lethargic, it is supremely reliable and easy to fix if needed. The Standard model also offers a blank canvas for modifications, and there are plenty of aftermarket accessories available, including protection gear, suspension kits, and roof racks.

Parts for the LandCruiser 100 Series are readily available worldwide, and these vehicles can be found on the second-hand market at affordable prices, making them an excellent choice for long-haul expeditions on a budget.

4WD campervans

When it comes to choosing the best 4WD to travel around Australia, there are a few key factors to consider. The vehicle should be tough, practical, and functional, with a good range of aftermarket accessories available to suit different needs. Additionally, it should have off-road capability, touring range, load-carrying capacity, and reliability.

If you're looking for a 4WD campervan specifically, there are several options available in the Australian market. Here are some detailed descriptions of some popular choices:

• Explorer Motorhomes 4x4 Campervan: This campervan is custom-built for Australian conditions and offers a unique one-piece insulated body that enhances heating and cooling retention. With no seams, you won't have to worry about leaks. Explorer Motorhomes offers a range of options and premium finishes to cater to different customer requirements, such as sleeping configurations, dining layouts, and storage needs.
• Trakka Akuna 4Motion: The Akuna campervan is built on the VW Crafter medium and long wheelbase vans, and until 2022, there was no version available on the 4Motion model.
• Trakka Trakkadu All-Terrain: The Trakkadu model offers an automated transmission and is known for its off-road capabilities.
• Jacana Hiker HiAce-based campervans: Jacana Motorhomes offers the Hiker, based on Toyota's HiAce van, in 2WD, 2WD 'X', and 4WD configurations.
• Kimberley Kruiswagen: Celebrating 30 years in the industry, Kimberley Kampers has launched the deluxe Kruiswagen, based on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter AWD van.
• Vanlife by Roadtrek AWD campervan: This luxury campervan is a collaboration between South Yarra Volkswagen Commercial Centre and Vanlife by Roadtrek, designed for Australian conditions and based on the VW Crafter.
• Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series: The LandCruiser is a popular choice for long-haul, remote-area off-road touring. It has a tough build, good chassis flex, excellent wheel travel, and load-carrying capacity. It's powered by a reliable and fuel-efficient 4.5-litre V8 turbodiesel engine, making it ideal for hauling heavy loads or towing trailers.
• Land Rover Defender (1990-2016): The previous-generation Defender is well-suited for long-distance travel and can be traced back to the original Land Rover launched in 1948. It has a rugged build, turbodiesel engine, and sophisticated electronic traction control. While Land Rover's reliability has been questionable, many people have driven this model in remote areas without serious mechanical failures.
• Nissan Patrol GU: The Patrol GU is a simple and tough design ideal for remote-area travel. It has a box-section separate chassis, live axles, and coil springs, with a wide track and long wheelbase for stability. It's powered by a 3.0-litre four-cylinder common rail turbodiesel engine, and older models feature a mechanically injected TD42T 4.2-litre six-cylinder turbodiesel engine for simplicity and reliability.
• Jeep Wrangler JK: The Wrangler JK makes the list due to its exceptional off-road capability and the availability of aftermarket accessories. It offers a powerful and economical turbodiesel engine, and you can choose between a traditional two-door short wheelbase or the four-door long wheelbase Unlimited model.

These are just a few examples of 4WD campervans and off-road vehicles available in Australia. Each option has its own unique features, capabilities, and advantages, so it's important to consider your specific needs and requirements before making a decision.

4WD vs. 2WD

When it comes to choosing the best vehicle for travelling around Australia, there are several factors to consider, including the type of drivetrain. The Australian landscape is diverse and rugged, with a mix of urban areas, rugged outback terrain, and long stretches of open roads. Here, we'll explore the differences between 4WD and 2WD drivetrains and how they can impact your travel experience in Australia.

4WD, or four-wheel drive, is a system that divides the vehicle's power between all four wheels, providing maximum traction. This makes it easier to navigate uneven terrain and challenging off-road conditions. Modern 4WD systems can operate manually or automatically, and some even allow drivers to switch between 2WD and 4WD as needed. 4WD is commonly found in off-road vehicles like pickup trucks and SUVs.

On the other hand, 2WD, or two-wheel drive, is the most common drivetrain type, where power is sent to either the front or rear wheels. 2WD vehicles are typically classified as front-wheel drive (FWD) or rear-wheel drive (RWD). FWD is more common in standard passenger cars, while RWD is often found in pickup trucks, older SUVs, and sports cars. 2WD vehicles are generally more affordable and fuel-efficient but may struggle with traction in off-road or snowy conditions.

Advantages of 4WD

4WD offers several benefits that make it a popular choice for those travelling around Australia:

• Superior Traction and Off-Road Capability: The main advantage of 4WD is its ability to provide maximum traction on all types of terrain. Whether you're navigating rocky trails, sandy dunes, or muddy off-road tracks, 4WD gives you the grip and control needed to tackle challenging conditions.
• Towing Capacity: 4WD vehicles often have higher towing capacities, making them ideal for towing caravans, trailers, or other equipment on your travels.
• Versatility: Many 4WD vehicles offer selectable drive modes, allowing you to switch between 2WD and 4WD. This versatility ensures you can adapt to different road conditions and optimise fuel efficiency when not off-roading.
• Safety: The improved traction and control of 4WD can enhance safety, especially when driving in remote areas or unpredictable weather conditions.

Advantages of 2WD

2WD vehicles also have their advantages, particularly in terms of cost and fuel efficiency:

• Affordability: 2WD vehicles tend to be more affordable than their 4WD counterparts, as they have simpler drivetrain systems and are more widely available.
• Fuel Efficiency: 2WD cars are generally more fuel-efficient, as they power only two wheels. This can be a significant advantage for long-distance travel or when fuel stops are scarce.
• On-Road Performance: 2WD vehicles are well-suited for driving on dry, flat roads and paved surfaces. They can offer better handling and acceleration, especially in sports cars or performance-oriented models.
• Simplicity: 2WD systems are typically less complex, making maintenance and repairs more straightforward and cost-effective.

Choosing Between 4WD and 2WD for Travelling in Australia

The decision between 4WD and 2WD depends on your specific needs and travel plans. If you intend to explore the vast Australian outback, tackle off-road tracks, or travel through varying weather conditions, a 4WD vehicle will provide the traction and versatility you need. On the other hand, if your travels will primarily be on paved roads and highways, a 2WD vehicle may be more cost-effective and fuel-efficient. Consider your intended routes, the types of terrain you'll encounter, and your budget to make an informed decision.

Frequently asked questions