Top Off-Road Vehicles in New Zealand in 2025

Whether you're carving your way through muddy farm paddocks, beach-hopping with the family, or heading deep into the backcountry for a weekend escape, having the right off-road vehicle makes all the difference. Kiwis don’t just drive 4WDs for the look; we use them to their fullest with no path left unexplored.

In 2025, the off-road scene is stacked with options, but not all rigs are built equally. We’ve rounded up the top off-road vehicles in NZ that combine rugged capability with everyday practicality.

1. Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (J250)

The Prado has long been a favourite in New Zealand, and the new-generation J250 takes things up a notch. It’s got a 2.8L turbo-diesel engine paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system for improved efficiency, and full-time 4WD with locking diffs to handle serious terrain.

The Prado is the 4WD for those who do long-haul trips, think West Coast wilderness missions, ski runs in winter, or towing a boat to the Coromandel. It’s comfortable, capable, and built to last the distance. Great for touring families, remote adventurers, and anyone who wants serious off-road performance with a plush ride.

A classic Kiwi tourer, now smarter and tougher.

2. Ford Ranger

Still king of the ute game, the Ford Ranger remains a go-to for Kiwi drivers who want real grunt with a side of comfort. The 3.0L V6 turbo-diesel is a beast with heaps of power, effortless towing, and backed by proper 4WD modes and low range.

The ride is smoother than ever, and the cabin’s packed with modern kit. It's as much at home in the bush as it is outside the supermarket. Perfect for tradies, families, and anyone who needs a ute that does the weekday grind and weekend play equally well.

Ready for work, play, and everything in between.

3. Mitsubishi Triton (New Gen)

The redesigned 2025 Triton brings sharper styling and a more refined interior without losing its reputation as a tough, reliable 4WD. It’s got a new 2.4L twin-turbo diesel engine, Super Select 4WD system, and better suspension than its predecessor.

The Triton is more affordable than many of its competitors but still highly capable when the track turns gnarly. It’s a smart buy for anyone wanting solid off-road chops without breaking the bank. Ideal for budget-savvy 4WDers, rural drivers, and weekend warriors.

Big capability without the big price tag.

4. Suzuki Jimny

Tiny but tenacious, the Suzuki Jimny continues to win over off-road enthusiasts with its classic ladder-frame chassis, proper low-range transfer case, and featherweight build that lets it go places bigger 4WDs can't.

The Jimny is perfect for narrow forest tracks, backcountry fishing trips, and sneaky beach missions. It’s not about size; it’s about spirit. And this little rig’s got loads of it. Great for solo explorers and those who want a serious 4WD without the serious footprint.

Small rig, big heart.

5. Toyota Hilux

Still the go-to for farmers, tradies, and off-road diehards, the Hilux is as dependable as ever. The 2.8L turbo-diesel packs solid grunt, and the chassis is built to take a beating.

It’s seen a few refinements over the years, with better ride comfort and a more user-friendly interior, but the DNA’s the same: tough, reliable, and up for anything. It’s no wonder this thing’s still a favourite across Aotearoa. A solid choice for off-grid travellers, hard-out worksites, and anyone who wants no-fuss, go-anywhere 4WD capability.

Unstoppable, unshakeable, unmistakably Hilux.

Ready to Get Muddy?

No matter which 4WD you choose, the adventure doesn’t stop at the track. Mud, sand, wet dogs, camp gear, it all ends up inside your rig. It wouldn’t be a true outing without encountering a bit of mess, but that doesn’t mean you need to take it home with you.

That’s where RubberTree comes in. We’ve got the rugged seat covers, rubber mats, and boot liners made for NZ’s dirtiest, wildest drives.