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4x4 FAQs

If you're thinking about buying a 4x4, you probably have some questions to make sure you find the most suitable model for you. Whether you've owned a 4x4 before or are about to become a first-time owner, we've answered your most frequently asked 4x4 questions, covering everything from running costs to the name.

What does 4x4 stand for?

4x4 is a term used to describe four-wheel drive vehicles. When written this way, the first value shows the number of wheels on the vehicle and the second indicates the number of those wheels that are powered while driving. This differs from a two-wheel drive, where only two wheels move with the steering wheel.

A 4x4 is a type of off-road car because it can handle most terrains, but not all off-road cars will be 4x4s.

Is there a difference between four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive?

Much like a four-wheel drive, an all-wheel drive (or AWD for short) drives all four wheels using three types of differentials: front, rear and centre. Whereas four-wheel drive is powered between two differentials, so can be driven as a two-wheel drive when driving on normal roads. This is usually done via a driver selectable system.

Are 4x4s just for off-road driving?

Even though 4x4s are an obvious choice for anyone who needs to drive off-road or across more challenging terrain, they can be a great fit for a range of lifestyles.

For large families who want a more spacious driving experience, to drivers who frequently make long journeys and wish to do so in comfort, there are a number of reasons why people choose to buy a 4x4.

Is running a four-wheel drive expensive?

Many people worry that owning a four-wheel drive will work out more expensive than owning a two-wheel drive, but it’s not always as simple as that. The running costs of any car will largely depend on how often you use it, what you use it for, and where you drive it.

Many 4x4s are now designed to lower the running costs. For example, the Toyota RAV4 is available with a hybrid engine, great for anyone who’s conscious of lowering their environmental impact or saving costs on fuel.

Which 4x4 should I buy?

Knowing which 4x4 will be the right one for you and your lifestyle isn’t always easy. There are many things you’ll want to consider, including the size of the car, type of engine and personal preferences such as design and interior style. To help you make your decision, we’ve put together a guide of the best 4x4s to compare the different models and help you find the best fit for you.

To find out more about 4x4s, why not head back to the Toyota 4x4 hub to read about the best 4x4s and how to choose the right model for you or discover o
ur 4x4 latest offers, where you can use our finance calculator to access individual breakdowns of monthly costs and deposit amounts for your convenience.