In New Zealand’s varied terrains, 4WD and AWD SUVs offer exceptional performance. These SUV cars, renowned for their stability and traction, are excellently equipped to navigate a range of environmental conditions.
4WD SUVs, featuring manually selectable systems, excel in challenging off-road conditions. Conversely, AWD SUVs, with their automatic power distribution, offer excellent handling and control, making them well-suited for varied and unpredictable driving conditions.
What is the difference? 4WD (or 4×4) SUVs have a drivetrain that typically allows manual selection between two-wheel drive for normal conditions and four-wheel drive for low-traction conditions such as ice, mud, or gravel. In contrast, AWD SUV cars continually power all four wheels and automatically adjust the power between front and rear wheels to optimise traction and handling, regardless of road conditions.
Browse our 4WD / AWD SUV vehicles
View 2,488 4WD / AWD SUV vehicles for sale
We include in these search results any new and used vehicles for sale across New Zealand including the major centres such as Auckland (Auckland Region), Wellington (Wellington Region), Christchurch (Canterbury Region), Hamilton (Waikato Region), Tauranga (Bay of Plenty Region), Napier-Hastings (Hawke's Bay Region), Dunedin (Otago Region), Palmerston North (Manawatū Region), Nelson (Nelson Region), Queenstown (Otago Region), Rotorua (Bay of Plenty Region) and Whangārei (Northland Region).
Popular models
- Toyota RAV4: Powered by a 2.5 litre engine, it has a balanced blend of fuel efficiency and power. Its AWD system makes it well-suited for diverse terrains.
- Subaru Outback: Known for its standard symmetrical AWD system and 2.5 litre engine. Offers ample space with over 2,000 litres of cargo space when rear seats are folded down.
- Ford Escape: Provides a blend of performance and practicality with a 2.0 litre engine and selectable 4WD system. Its ground clearance is around 200mm.
- Mazda CX-5: Equipped with a powerful 2.5 litre engine and an AWD system. It's noted for its superb handling and fuel efficiency.
- Nissan X-Trail: Features a 2.5 litre engine and optional 4WD. It offers a spacious interior, making it a family favourite.
- Honda CR-V: Comes with a 1.5 litre turbocharged engine and Real Time AWD. Known for its comfortable ride and safety features.
- Jeep Cherokee: Offers a 3.2 litre V6 engine with a selectable 4WD system. The car features a towing capacity of up to 2.2 tonnes.
- Land Rover Discovery: Renowned for its off-road capabilities, it has a 3.0 litre engine and adjustable air suspension which can provide up to 283mm of ground clearance.
