As an Amazon Associate, Modded gets commissions for purchases made through links in this post.
What’s the most reliable 44 SUV of all time? When you need a family car that can go off-road, only the toughest SUVs can fit your desires. These automobiles have excellent ground clearance and all-weather traction to navigate the most challenging terrain. Which one should you get?
From vintage off-roaders to cutting-edge models, here are the eight most rugged vehicles for your garage.
1. Toyota LandCruiser 70
- Ground Clearance: 12.4 inches
- Average Maintenance Cost: $843 per year
- Estimated Maintenance Cost During First 10 Years: $6,729
Toyota is known for producing what many consider the best off-road SUV of all time — the LandCruiser, notably the 70 Series. Built to take a beating and keep going, this off-roader can navigate some of the most challenging terrains in the world.
Originally manufactured in 1984, the LandCruiser 70 has been in production for decades. There’s a good reason for that, too — it’s practical but incredibly reliable. The modern LandCruiser J70 has a diesel V8 engine and interior tech upgrades — like a digital dashboard. Unfortunately, it’s tricky to find one in the U.S. since Toyota never released the 70 series in America, only the 80 series and the older 60 series.
The 2024 LandCruiser 70 won’t appear in North America due to the dreaded Chicken Tax. Uncle Sam imposes a 25% tariff on imported light vehicles, discouraging auto dealers from selling them on American soil. This tax has blighted the likes of Toyota Hilux, so the latest LandCruiser 70 is only the latest on the list. In the coming years, Toyota could get more expensive due to potential new tariffs.
2. Jeep Wrangler
- Ground Clearance: 12.9 inches
- Average Maintenance Cost: $634 per year
- Estimated Maintenance Cost During First 10 Years: $10,662
When most people think of off-road vehicles, the Jeep Wrangler is one of the first things that comes to mind. Dating back to the original Willys-Overland MB, the Jeep has long been an icon of the 4×4 market. The Jeep Wrangler is the most popular model, known for its stability, versatility and reliability. Plus, it looks the part of America’s most rugged vehicles.
If you’re shopping for a good 4×4, it’s always worth considering a Wrangler. They’re not for everyone due to their rollover rate, but they’re often a great place to start. With various 4WD systems and two- and four-door models, overlanding enthusiasts will tell you it’s in the discussion for the most reliable off-road SUV.
Modification is part of the Wrangler’s charm. With abundant aftermarket components available for new and vintage models, you push the boundaries of customization — from adding skid plates to accessorizing with lightbars — to achieve your desired look, performance and functionality. Keep an eye out for the Jeep Rubicon, as it’s a souped-up version of the Wrangler and does well on hostile terrain.
3. Ford F-150
- Ground Clearance: 9.4 inches
- Average Maintenance Cost: $788 per year
- Estimated Maintenance Cost During First 10 Years: $10,990
The Ford F-150 has been America’s bestselling truck for over 40 years and continues to impress. If you just look at numbers, it’s the most reliable 4×4 of all time for vehicle dealerships. Not only does it look great, it also handles off-roading like a champ. The F-150’s popularity also makes it easy to find affordable models on the used market and get replacement parts if needed.
It’s worth noting that the F-150’s most dependable off-road incarnation is the Raptor. This edition of the F-150 has improved long-travel suspension, a supercharged engine and larger tires that give it an edge over the standard F-150. Both models suffer a bit from their bulk. If you want to navigate narrow passes in your off-road vehicle, this one’s probably not the way to go.
The F-150’s most unassailable advantage is its hauling capacity. This half-steel, half-aluminum beast of burden can drag a staggering 14,000 pounds max. An SUV that could tow an average African elephant earns it a spot among the toughest SUVs of all time, including the nimble Suzuki Samurai. Despite the low fuel economy, you can go electric with the F-150 and forget about gas-guzzling trucks.
4. Toyota Tacoma
- Ground Clearance: 9.4 inches
- Average Maintenance Cost: $478 per year
- Estimated Maintenance Cost During First 10 Years: $6,732
The Tacoma is one of Toyota’s most popular off-road-capable trucks alongside the larger Tundra. Both are tough and reliable, but the Tacoma’s smaller size gives it the edge on trails and rough terrain. It’s more maneuverable and better suited for narrow passes than the Tundra.
The Tacoma fills a helpful niche as a mid-sized pickup truck. So, it’s smaller than an F-150 but still gets you a spacious truck bed. You can even add a few modifications to take the Tacoma’s trail performance up a notch. As a Toyota, you can rest assured that this truck will stand the test of time and the trails. It’s in the same league as the legendary Toyota LandCruiser and has a solid case for being the most reliable 4×4 truck of all time, hands down.
When comparing brands, a 4WD Toyota SUV could be the most reliable vehicle of all time if maintained well. Consumer Reports says Toyota — along with Lexus and Mini — are the best automakers for those who want a long-lasting car. Why do their 4x4s last so long? The secret lies with the engine construction. Toyota motors handle stress well, thus helping them last longer than other brands.
5. Suzuki Samurai
- Ground Clearance: 8.2 inches
- Average Maintenance Cost: $239 per year
- Estimated Maintenance Cost During First 10 Years: $4,779
What’s the most reliable yet underrated 4×4 on the market? Look no further than the Suzuki Samurai, also called the Jimny. While small, it’s also quick, light and agile enough to fill a niche in the off-road market that’s become increasingly empty over the past few decades. Originally produced between 1985 and 1995, the Samurai remains arguably the most reliable off-road SUV ever made. This classic delivers fantastic performance even when you buy a used one.
Samurais are particularly good for unique off-roading scenarios — like dunes or narrow trails. Its small size offers tremendous hauling capacity and allows you to take the Samurai virtually anywhere. Would you drive it to Death Valley in the middle of the summer or Denali during the winter? Some brave souls took the Suzuki Samurai to the South American mountains to test its excellent durability.
As a testament to the Samurai’s endurance, one of its 1986 resto-mods owns the distinction for reaching the highest altitude out of all cars. In 2007, a pair of Chileans named Eduardo Canales and Gonzalo Bravo drove the four-wheel Unimog on the slopes of the dormant Ojos del Salado volcano in the Andes and parked 21,942 above sea level — 138 feet higher than the previous record held by a Jeep Wrangler.
6. Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness
- Ground clearance: 9.3 inches
- Average Maintenance Cost: $492 per year
- Estimated Maintenance Cost During First 10 Years: $8,210
Subarus might not come to mind when you think of the toughest SUVs of all time. However, these Japanese cars should be associated with the most rugged vehicles. Specifically, the Crosstrek Wilderness deserves recognition as the brand’s first entry to serious off-roading. While the car is terrific for beginners, it fills the needs of anyone who wants to get outside with their automobile.
Modern off-road vehicles can get expensive, especially if the dealership tells you it’s the most reliable 4WD SUV on the market. However, the Crosstrek Wilderness changes the tune with a relatively affordable price. The Crosstrek Wilderness’s MSRP is $33,540, a far cry from how much new cars cost in the modern day. While less expensive, it doesn’t compromise quality on your way to the dirt roads.
One of the shining features of this vehicle is the ground clearance. At 9.3 inches, it’s even better than the 4Runner, the Ford Bronco Sport and other competitors in the toughest SUVs of all time competition. With a high ground clearance and approach angle, you can avoid dangerous rocks and obstacles to protect your automobile. Forget what you know about Subaru because the off-road prowess is much better with this vehicle.
7. Honda CR-V
- Ground clearance: 8.2 inches
- Average Maintenance Cost: $407 per year
- Estimated Maintenance Cost During First 10 Years: $7,367
If you want the most reliable 4×4 SUV, Honda has one of the best autos of all time. The CR-V’s reputation is based on the automaker’s reliability across all models. How often do you see a Honda with over 200,000 miles that still runs well? The CR-V benefits from Honda’s superior engine-building techniques, leading to consistent performance. Their secret to success is minimized downtime and low maintenance over the years.
The CR-V boasts what you expect from a Honda — minimal frills and the basics to get from point A to point B. While some may stick their nose up at it, the SUV packs a punch when you consider the long run. If you don’t pay much for maintenance, you have more money to take your kids and the SUV on off-road adventures. Practicality reigns supreme with these Japanese autos.
While you don’t get the luxuries in other vehicles, the Honda CR-V still makes travel easy with its superior interior comfort. Plus, you can easily upgrade it due to the burgeoning aftermarket community. Parts for the CR-V are often interchangeable with other Honda vehicles, so it’s easy to join your friends who mod their Civic or Accord for car shows. Before you swap parts, check the warranty to ensure you don’t violate it.
8. Mercedes-Benz G-Class
- Ground clearance: 9.5 inches
- Average Maintenance Cost: $1,461 per year
- Estimated Maintenance Cost During First 10 Years: $17,861
Who says the most luxurious automakers can’t go off the beaten path? The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is among the best 4×4 SUVs because it combines style and toughness. While you typically don’t want dirt on your nice cars, it doesn’t matter when you have one of the most rugged vehicles in its class. While the price point can be high, G-Series vehicles are worth their weight in gold when you’re on pavement and dirt.
The 2025 G-Class G550 is shaping up to be the best SUV yet from the German automaker. With 443 horsepower at 6100 RPM, you get plenty of power when you push the gas pedal. Then, the 413 lb-ft of torque is helpful when you’re in precarious off-road situations. This automobile from the G-Class stands out because of its high ground clearance, considering it towers over similar rides in its class.
Mercedes-Benz vehicles have mixed reliability results. However, like all vehicles, their lifeline depends on how well you service them. Take your Mercedes-Benz G-Class G550 to a certified mechanic who has experience with this manufacturer. If you do, you’ll extend its life span and ensure you get the most from your $150,000 purchase. While more pricey to maintain, regular service saves money compared to costly repairs.
What’s the Most Reliable 4×4 SUV of All Time?
Choosing the most reliable 4×4 of all time is hard, but these eight vehicles are certainly the front-runners. The top spot is a toss-up between the Toyota LandCruiser 70 and Jeep Wrangler, although there are also a few tough off-road pickup trucks worth checking out.
Ultimately, it depends on what you value. All vehicles on this list can stand the test of time, so you could pick one with your eyes closed and still have a great time on the road and trail alike for years to come.
Originally posted 10/18/23 – Updated 12/3/24
Stay up to date with the latest by subscribing to Modded Minute.
Author
Jack Shaw is a senior writer at Modded. Jack is an avid enthusiast for keeping up with personal health and enjoying nature. He has over five years of experience writing in the men's lifestyle niche, and has written extensively on topics of fitness, exploring the outdoors and men's interests. His writings have been featured in SportsEd TV, Love Inc., and Offroad Xtreme among many more publications.
