Upcoming Innovative 4x4 Vehicles You Should Definitely Look Out For

Upcoming Innovative 4x4 Vehicles You Should Definitely Look Out For

Upcoming Innovative 4x4 Vehicles You Should Definitely Look Out For

Lucy Wyndham
23 August 2021

The entirety of the automotive sector has been experiencing a tremendous growth in the recent months. Sales have been increasing across the board, and 4x4 vehicles were particularly favored. The global market for AWD vehicles is expected to grow to over $695 billion in 2027, according to Research and Markets. If you look at the number of innovations automakers are outfitting their 4x4s with, it’s easy to see why. The new generation of 4x4s will have everything from performance upgrades inspired by racing and motorsports technologies, to every safety feature and infotainment gadget a family could want. 4x4s are big enough to support an extensive complement of features, making them perfect for those who need a lot of utility and power output.

Ford Ranger PHEV

There has long been a push for reduced-emission 4x4 vehicles, and Ford seems to be leading the charge in that endeavor. Ford recently announced that by 2023, they will be releasing a plug-in hybrid powertrain for their new line of Ranger pickup trucks. This comes as the Ranger’s big brother, the F-150, had just gotten an all-electric option. The hybrid Ranger concept is highly similar to the current iteration of the pickup, but with notable details that hint at its new hybrid design, such as its headlights that look distinctly like high-efficiency LEDs.

However, apart from some images, the rest of the concept remains shrouded in mystery. Many analysts speculate that it will be largely based on the 2.3L Ecoboost engine, appended with electrical capabilities that boost its total power to 362bhp. This is a remarkable increase from the output of current Ford Rangers, which only reach up to 200bhp at most. The automaker is already gearing up for mass-production of this design, increasing manufacturing capacity in South Africa to make room for the hybrid Ranger.

2022 Toyota Tacoma

The 2022 Toyota Tacoma carries on the tradition of stellar off-road capability and solid reliability. Toughness is its strongest attribute, and it’s gotten several model design upgrades to make its all-terrain performance even better. Both the Tacoma Trail Edition and TRD Pro have been given height boosts to improve approach, breakover, and departure angles. It also comes with some novel graphics and paint job options.

In terms of driver-assist, the Tacoma is set to be equipped with an improved version of the 2020 Tacoma’s Multi-Terrain Select and CRAWL features, allowing it to traverse difficult terrain more smoothly than ever before. Moreover, a lot of baseline features carry over from even Gen 1 Tacomas, including things like its water pump gasket assembly. This makes the Tacoma a bit easier to repair than many other pickups, to add to its remarkable durability and reliability.

Isuzu MU-X SUV

Slated to arrive in the 3rd quarter of this year, the MU-X is equipped with the D-Max’s engine, a 3-liter turbo diesel powerhouse that rates 450Nm and 140kW in terms of output. The MU-X SUV seats seven and comes with a six-speed automatic transmission, and also has a 4x2 variant. True to form, the MU-X has all the trappings of a state-of-the-art Isuzu utility vehicle, from its safety suite to its infotainment system. Interior gadgetry has been treated with a substantial overhaul, now with a 9-inch touchscreen that also serves as a multifunction control console. Standout safety features include an electronic stability assist and a Traction Control System for enhanced road grip.

4x4s are really leaning into their characteristic blend of power and convenience with these upcoming features. These models cement 4x4 vehicles’ place as the go-to ride for drivers that need both cabin capacity and versatile traversal capabilities.