Most economical 4x4
If you want some 4x4 capabilities but don’t want to burn through fuel, take a look at our top picks for economical 4x4 models
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Best MPG 4x4 UK
If you live off the beaten track or just like to head that way sometimes, a 4x4 is an ideal way to get some off-road capability that will keep you stable no matter the terrain.
An economical 4x4 is even better – you can cruise around in a chunky vehicle that feels great on the roads (and off) but doesn’t cost over the odds to run.
While most people consider 4x4 vehicles an expensive option for fuel, it doesn’t have to be that way.
This is especially true with the growing presence of hybrid models on the market.
Take a look at our top picks for the best MPG 4x4s on the market.
Volvo XC90 PHEV
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For a stylish SUV that feels luxurious while still being practical, a used Volvo XC90 Recharge plug-in hybrid is an ideal choice.
With space for seven people and a 356-litre boot even with all seats in place, it’s particularly suited to large families or those who need extra space.
Being a plug-in hybrid, the Volvo XC90 will allow you to travel up to 27 miles on a single charge.
The official WLTP economy figure sits at 104.5mpg, but this will differ depending on how you drive.
There are a few driving modes to cycle through as well, including the AWD, Hybrid, and Off-road settings.
The overall drive is comfortable and irons out any bumps in the road, managing 0-62mph in just 5.8 seconds.
Volkswagen Tiguan 4MOTION
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The Volkswagen Tiguan 4MOTION has the sleek look that’s classic of a VW, but it offers the 4MOTION four-wheel-drive system that can tackle most terrain.
This used VW is a great option for those stuck between wanting an on-trend SUV and something that feels genuinely practical for outdoorsy lifestyles.
With the four-wheel-drive system, the Tiguan does see slightly reduced fuel economy when compared to front-wheel-drive models, but this is typical in all cars.
You can still expect up to 49.6mpg from the 2.0 TDI 184 4MOTION DSG model.
The car overall is designed to take on rougher territory and feels great while it does so, with additional driver modes that allow you to really be in control of your drive.
Kia Sorento PHEV
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Another economical seven-seater, the Kia Sorento ticks an abundance of boxes as a plug-in hybrid SUV with four-wheel driving power.
You’ll be able to cover up to 35 miles purely using your electric power, and this contributes to a 176.6mpg figure.
With a 67kW motor paired with a 13.8kWh battery, this used Kia feels nippy on the road despite its larger size.
In fact, the Sorento is so large that you’ll get a 608-litre boot in the five-seat configuration, or a 179-litre boot with all seven seats popped up.
Despite its large size and 4x4 capabilities, the Sorento feels just as enjoyable to drive around town or on the motorway.
Drive modes like Smart, Eco and Sport mean you can tailor your driving to the scenario and get that instant torque boost when using purely the electric power source.
Citroen C3 Aircross
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While the Citroen C3 Aircross isn’t a true 4x4 vehicle, they are fitted with the Grip Control switchable traction control system that really enhances the car’s ability to head off-road.
The Grip Control system adds different driving modes for different terrains, plus hill descent control.
It’s a great alternative if you’re not sure you need to full 4x4 experience.
In the C3 Aircross, you can expect up to 67.2mpg from the 1.5 Blue HDi 110 diesel model, or up to 51.5mpg from the 1.2 PureTech 110 petrol.
These are respectable figures for a crossover of this size.
Plus, this model received a full five-star Euro NCAP safety rating on its most recent test – making it a safe and reliable option.
Land Rover Discovery Sport
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A true classic and probably what springs to mind when you think of 4x4s, the Land Rover Discovery Sport is an iconic model for good reason.
Offering seven seats in a luxurious but hard-wearing cabin, the Discover Sport is an ideal option for real off-roading ability with a premium finish.
With its large size and impressive engines, the Discovery Sport does take a slight hit for fuel economy.
In the diesel D250 model, you can expect up to 33.8mpg, making it the most frugal fuel drinker in the lineup.
For a petrol option, the P360 model is expected to offer up to 32mpg. It does make up for the fuel efficiency by being a serious machine on all terrain, with all the latest models also offering mild-hybrid tech.
BMW X3 PHEV
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For another prestigious option with 4x4 finesse, the BMW X3 plug-in hybrid offers the impressive BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system that makes light work of a rough ride.
The entirety of this SUV feels luxurious and premium, with a plush cabin and instantly recognisable exterior styling. It’s every inch the classic used BMW, but gets a boost on SUV stilts.
There’s a fully electric BMW X3 option if you want it, but the plug-in model is ideal for keeping some fuel onside.
You can expect up to 135.5mpg and up to 30 miles of electric-only mile range. This really takes the edge off, especially when cruising around town.
The xDrive30e hybrid option is actually the same plug-in hybrid powertrain used in the coveted 330e model and offers up to 252hp.
Ford Puma
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Some say that the Ford Puma is the next step up from the Fiesta, with a similar feel out on the roads.
The main difference here – apart from the obvious styling difference – is that you’ll get all-wheel drive as standard in the Puma, plus that chunky SUV ride height.
There’s a choice of engines in this used Ford lineup including an ST model that prioritises performance.
Even in this one, you’ll still get 42.8mpg, so aren’t sacrificing that frugality for extra power.
There’s a choice of two 1.0-litre petrol models in the standard range – a 125hp model and a 155hp. The 125hp engine offers up to 52.3mpg, while the 155hp manages up to 48.7mpg.
We like that the Puma is still pretty efficient even if you opt for the more powerful engine, so you won't have to justify too hard to up those hp figures.
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV AWD
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Spacious, practical and efficient, the Mitsubishi Outlander plug-in hybrid is an ideal option for a family car.
It’s quiet on the road and has a striking appearance, with plenty of chrome and an intimidating grille.
The Outlander is only available as a five-seat model, but there’s a 463-litre boot at the rear that can extend to 1,602 litres if you drop the rear seats.
On the road, you’ll make use of the Outlander’s Super All Wheel Control 4WD system and can cover up to 28 miles on purely electric power.
The official statistic is up to 140mpg as well, so Mitsubishi has faith it’s a truly economical runner.
You can also make use of the ECO mode that takes actions like reducing the energy sent to the air-conditioning to maximise your fuel efficiency.
Nissan Qashqai
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A sensible family SUV that doesn’t feel boring is a common want among modern motorists, and the Nissan Qashqai is the perfect solution.
With a few trims to choose from and the option for a four-wheel-drive model, it’s ideal for practicality with touches of impressive tech.
There are a few options for engines in the Qashqai lineup, including the option for a 4x4 from the most powerful diesel engine.
The 1.7 dCi 4WD model offers a 46.5mpg WLTP figure, while choosing the automatic variation knocks this down to 40.9mpg.
There are also hybrid options available in the range, plus the e-Power option for all-electric motoring.
Other than the mentioned diesel, other models in the range are only available as two-wheel-drive variants.
Suzuki Vitara
 "Suzuki Vitara")
If you like your SUVs to have four-wheel-drive capabilities but look as if they’d be more at home in an urban environment, the Suzuki Vitara could be your perfect match.
While the ALL GRIP four-wheel-drive technology in the Vitara is ideal for swerving over all kinds of terrain, the luxe modern styling means it’s somewhat deceptive.
It’s only the chunky grille at the front that’s a giveaway of the Vitara’s talents.
Suzuki claims the ALL GRIP tech means this model can head just about anywhere in all weathers, and the technology doesn’t affect the fuel economy or engine emissions like traditional all-wheel drive.
The mild hybrid engine adds even more fuel efficiency, pushing a 45.4mpg figure that’s impressive for a car of this size and with 4x4 tech. This comes from the 1.4-litre BoosterJet engine that’s capable of 130hp.
Maximise fuel-efficiency further
While choosing a fuel-efficient 4x4 is a great start, there are other ways you can improve your fuel usage by making a few changes to the way you drive.
If you enjoy blasting the air-conditioning or keeping the heating on high, it might be worth turning it down or shutting off all together. This can preserve precious petrol and diesel while you drive.
Chucking out any heavy loads can help as well. Things like roof racks can increase your fuel usage, so consider whether these are an absolute necessity.
Sticking to a sensible speed and not ragging your four-wheel-drive model around will also help. You’ll use the most fuel at higher speeds with erratic braking.
If your vehicle has the option of an eco or hybrid driving mode, utilising this where possible can be handy.
This will depend on the type of driving you’re doing, but if you can use these features, it’s worth it.