The best small 4×4 in the UK has been named (stock) (Image: Getty)
While much attention is focused on hybrid vehicles of all sizes, there remains strong demand in the UK for compact off-roaders powered by a range of fuel types.
Small cars capable of venturing well off the beaten track continue to appeal to buyers thanks to their practicality and rugged versatility.
With that in mind, experts at Auto Express have compiled a list of the best small 4x4s currently on sale in the UK.
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A Dacia Duster (Image: Getty)
Topping the list is a model that has built a reputation for both value and capability: the four-wheel-drive £24,095 version of the Dacia Duster.
The Romanian-built SUV was praised for its comfort, space and “well designed interior”, with reviewers also describing it as “genuinely desirable”.
They said: “We’re fans of the Dacia Duster here at Auto Express because few cars offer the same combination of family-friendly practicality and off-road capability.
“It’s such a competitive offering that we couldn’t help but crown the Dacia Duster as our Small SUV of the Year in 2024.”
However, the car was not without its drawbacks, with criticism aimed at its high boot lip, below-par Euro NCAP safety rating and noticeable wind noise at higher speeds.
A Volvo EX30 (Image: Getty)
In second place was the all-electric £42,360 Volvo EX30 P8 AWD, which was praised for its performance, efficiency and “comfortable and stylish” interior.
That said, reviewers noted it is relatively small, limiting practicality, while also criticising its “fiddly” infotainment system and describing the Cross Country variant as “fairly pointless”.
A Toyota GR Yaris (Image: Getty)
Third place went to the £46,196 Toyota GR Yaris, one of the most distinctive cars currently on the market.
Developed by Toyota’s performance division — often compared to rivals such as Mercedes-AMG and BMW M — the GR Yaris features a punchy three-cylinder engine.
Reviewers praised its “real world usability”, styling and “punchy power delivery”, but criticised its stiff ride, high price and “awkward” rear seats.
They added: “The rear seats will feel a little on the cramped side for taller passengers, but for short journeys it shouldn’t be much of an issue. The 174-litre boot is on the small side though, so don’t expect to carry much more than a light shop.”
Overall, the top three highlight the wide variety of four-wheel-drive cars available, catering to different driving preferences, budgets and powertrains.