Top 10 best 4x4 electric cars 2024
Whether you’re looking to venture off road, or just want some extra assurance in the winter months, we list the best four-wheel-drive electric cars on sale
We’re starting to see 4x4 electric cars grow in popularity, because their all-wheel drive systems are much easier and more cost-effective to implement than in traditional petrol or diesel vehicles. By placing an electric motor on each axle, manufacturers can create four-wheel drive systems that improve traction and stability without the need for complicated mechanical components. This simplicity has led to a wider range of 4x4 electric cars on the market, offering drivers better control in all conditions. But which models stand out? Read on for our top 10 picks.
4x4 systems are known for their ability to enhance traction in slippery or uneven conditions, making them ideal for tackling snow, rain, and even off-road surfaces. They also distribute power more effectively, improving cornering stability and allowing better use of an electric car’s instant torque by helping to prevent unwanted wheelspin.
Best 4x4 electric cars on sale now
Here’s the verdict on the 10 best 4x4 electric cars from our expert road testers. If you just want something high-riding and practical, but aren’t too fussed about 4x4 technology, why not check out our list of the best electric SUVs you can buy?
1. Subaru Solterra
- Prices from £52,495
- Maximum WLTP combined range: 289 miles
Subaru is renowned for its rallying heritage, so it’s only fitting that the Japanese marque’s first EV comes as standard with four-wheel drive and a plethora of off-road-oriented features. The Subaru Solterra SUV shares its parts with the Toyota bZ4X, however, unlike that car, it gets Subaru’s ‘X-MODE’, which is a specific setting designed for off-road driving. It also boasts ‘Grip Control’, which is essentially a kind of off-road cruise control. Despite its raised ground clearance, the Solterra should be easy to live with everyday, thanks to its 289-mile electric range and standard 150kW charging capability.
Read our full Subaru Solterra review to find out more.
2. Mercedes G 580 with EQ Technology
- Prices from £180,860
- Maximum WLTP combined range: 285 miles
The Mercedes G-Class has long been recognised as one of the most capable premium off-roaders. The new electric G 580 with EQ Technology not only lives up to the reputation of its combustion-engine predecessors, but can also exceed their off-roading ability.
The Mercedes G 580 isn’t just about off-roading, though; 579bhp and 1,164Nm of torque propel it from 0-62mph in as little as 4.7 seconds. Additionally, the claimed range is a practical 285 miles, thanks to a substantial 112kWh battery pack. With a peak charging speed of 200kW, the G 580 can top up from 10 to 80 per cent in around 32 minutes.
Read our full Mercedes G 580 with EQ Technology to find out more
3. Kia EV9
- Prices from £65,025
- Maximum WLTP combined range: 349 miles
Our DrivingElectric Car of the Year for 2024, the Kia EV9 is available in both single and dual-motor configurations. It’s the latter you’ll want if you’re after something that offers some off-road prowess; four-wheel-drive EV9s get a Terrain Mode Select button that allows you to choose from Mud, Sand, or Snow settings, which adjust the traction control to provide maximum grip. All versions of the EV9 are pretty capable, with up to seven seats, plenty of interior storage and a range of 349 miles. Like all Kias, the EV9 also gets an outstanding seven-year warranty, which should cover anything should it go wrong.
Read our full Kia EV9 review to find out more.
4. BMW iX
- Prices from £70,985
- Maximum WLTP combined range: 382 miles
BMW’s long-awaited zero-emissions flagship, the iX is an X5-sized SUV that has the Tesla Model X in its sights. The BMW showcases a bold new design language that's set to appear across all of the brand's future pure-electric models. Every version gets a pair of electric motors producing between 322bhp (in the entry-level xDrive40) all the way up to 611bhp (in the range-topping M60) and thus, four-wheel-drive. The luxury SUV also offers up to 382 miles of range, while 200kW charging allows for a 10-80 per cent top-up in just 34 minutes.
Read our full BMW iX review to find out more.
5. Ford Mustang Mach-E
- Prices from £43,330
- Maximum WLTP combined range: 373 miles
The Mustang Mach-E was Ford’s first electric car, boasting numerous impressive qualities that earn it a spot on our list. The company quotes a great range of up to 373 miles from a 91kWh battery on the Long Range version, and a decent 273 miles from the standard model. The latter can charge from 10 to 80 per cent in just 38 minutes using a 115kW charger. Inside the car, a minimalist design features, with most functions managed via two large screens that feature sharp graphics. The boot offers a practical 402 litres of space, and the rear seats provide loads of room for three adults.
Read our full Ford Mustang Mach-E to find out more
6. Tesla Model Y
- Prices from £46,990
- Maximum WLTP combined range: 373 miles
The Tesla Model Y is the bigger brother to the Model 3 saloon and sits below the flagship Model X with its showy gullwing doors. With conventional doors and a much lower price tag, the Model Y combines the practicality of an SUV with Tesla’s cutting-edge in-car technology, in a far more restrained and compact package. While it’s yet to be facelifted in the same manner as its saloon sibling, three versions of the Model Y are available in the UK, two of which feature four-wheel drive. Whichever you go for, all have access to Tesla’s fantastic Supercharger network – ideal for top-ups on longer adventures.
Read our full Tesla Model Y review to find out more.
7. MINI Countryman
- Prices from £42,080
- Maximum WLTP combined range: 287 miles
Now that the MINI Countryman has made the transition to fully electric, you might have expected it to become more sedate, but thankfully, it hasn't. The Countryman is still as fun as ever to drive, despite weighing roughly two tonnes, and it remains a comfortable and practical family car.
The MINI offers 460 litres of boot space with the seats up, and 1,450 litres with them folded down, providing plenty of room for your family and the dog. The circular OLED touchscreen is a standout feature of the interior, offering bright colours and sharp responses. The top range figure offered for the Countryman is provided by the ‘E’ model, which can manage 287 miles on the WLTP combined cycle and can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in just 29 minutes using a 130kW charger.
Read our full MINI Countryman to find out more.
8. Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo
- Prices from £96,800
- Maximum WLTP combined range: 381 miles
You may be surprised to see a Porsche on our best four-wheel-drive electric cars list, but the Taycan Cross Turismo proves you don’t have to sacrifice performance if you’re after a little extra capability. It boasts a powerful set of electric motors – whether you go for the base 4 or the range-topping Turbo S edition – and even has decent ground clearance, thanks to a raised suspension set-up. With SUV-style body cladding, the Taycan Cross Turismo gets a practical estate-style boot and can also be specified with a compass on the dashboard, too. While it’s not quite suited to rock-crawling, the ‘off-road’ Taycan is more than capable enough for most dirt and gravel tracks, and offers loads of grip on the tarmac.
Read our full Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo review to find out more.
9. Volvo EX40
- Prices from £44,601
- Maximum WLTP combined range: 343 miles
The Volvo EX40 is one of the Swedish brand’s smallest SUVs and is available in both ‘Single Motor’ and ‘Twin-motor’ form. The latter, when ordered in the ‘Black Edition Twin Motor Performance’ configuration, develops a mind-boggling 408bhp and gets from 0-62mph in just 4.6 seconds. However, the EX40 is best driven at a relaxed pace, with supple suspension that’s perfect for bumpy country lanes, and a sumptuous interior featuring a minimalist design and a slick Google-based portrait touchscreen. With a maximum range of 343 miles, the EX40 is suitable for long journeys, too, and can charge at speeds of up to 200kW.
Read our full Volvo EX40 review to find out more.
10. Mercedes EQE SUV
- Prices from £75,495
- Maximum WLTP combined range: 376 miles
The Mercedes EQE SUV is one of the brand's larger electric models, but despite its size, it’s no slouch. The most powerful version, the AMG EQE 53 with the Dynamic Plus pack, delivers a hefty 668bhp, allowing it to accelerate from 0-62mph in as little as 3.5 seconds.
Long journeys aren’t an issue either, because the EQE SUV offers a range of up to 376 miles and It can charge from 10 to 80 per cent in just 31 minutes. Inside, there’s a wealth of cutting-edge technology operated through the standard clear and easy-to-use screens, while tech enthusiasts can upgrade to the massive 42-inch ‘Hyperscreen’, which is by far the most stunning option available. However, this will set you back an equally impressive £5,000, unless you choose the AMG model, where it comes as standard.
Read our full Mercedes EQE SUV review to find out more.
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