The great outdoors are there to explore, and for those feeling adventurous, that means one thing: It’s time to get that 4x4. Overlanding has exploded these past couple of years, and there are a wide variety of models to choose from as a ‘rig.’
But for those who’d like to spend less than a million pesos for a 4x4, what options are around? Well, there’s no other choice than to go for the second-hand market. That said, there are several solid options out there, so here’s five SUVs that are ready to rock the trail, all for less than seven figures.
Our criteria? It has to feel modern enough so nothing from the ’90s. There’s a good blend of tech and capability, but mechanical goodness is welcome, too. Proven reliability is a bonus, but we have an option for the brave folks out there.
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2015 to 2019 Ford Everest Titanium Plus (P750,000 to 900,000)
You won’t be getting the 2.0 twin-turbo Everest under a million. Instead, what you can get is the pre-facelift 3.2-liter, five-cylinder models of the T6 generation. The Duratorq diesel is robust, making 197hp and 470Nm of torque. However, do look out for its transmission, a sore point of these 3.2-liter equipped models.
On the flipside, the myriad of terrain select modes and standard rear differential locker make it easier for the amateur off-roader to tackle the rough stuff. It’s a good handler on road and hugely capable off of it, making the T6 Everest one of the most well-rounded 4x4s out there.
2016 to 2019 Mitsubishi Montero Sport GT 4WD (P800,000 to P1,000,000)
But say the Everest isn’t your cup of tea. You prefer something more, well, Japanese. Our choice would be the Mitsubishi Montero Sport QE or the pre-facelift version of the current model. We believe these are hugely underrated as off-road vehicles as it packs both mechanical and electronic goodies that make it capable in the rough.
Sure, its 2.4-liter MIVEC turbodiesel isn’t exactly a powerhouse with 178hp and 430Nm, but it gets the job done. Super Select 4WD-II (SS 4WD-II) and rear diff lock gives this SUV better abilities off-road, and SS 4WD-II can even be activated on pavement for extra traction.
1998 to 2017 Nissan Patrol 4x4/Super Safari (P500,000 to 1,000,000)
It’s well over a quarter century old now, but there’s a good reason why the Y61/GU Patrol is still being made to this day. While discontinued in the Philippines in 2017, it’s still sold in the Middle East and Africa. While on road driving dynamics aren’t its forte, the Y61/GU shines when the going gets rough.
A wide assortment of aftermarket parts further boosts its capabilities, and the solid axles at the front and rear help give it a greater range of articulation over tough climbs and descents. Its diesel engine, the ZD30, had a bit of a rough start in its life, but later models had those kinks ironed out. Again, it’s not fast, but it has more than enough pull to climb mountains and ford streams.
2003 to 2019 Suzuki Jimny (P300,000 to P800,000)
Of course, this list wouldn’t be complete without the little SUV that can, the Jimny. Specifically, we’re talking about the previous generation, the JB43. It doesn’t have the pull of the other SUVs mentioned here, nor does it have any big tricks up its sleeve.
But the Jimny makes up for it by being light on its feet, a huge advantage in mud pits and tight trails. The tall and narrow tires don’t do its on-road handling any favors, but it’s the ideal arrangement on the trail. It’s a bit like the old Patrol, then, but sans the bulk.
2002 to 2009 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (P650,000 to P950,000)
If you’re hoping you can get a Land Cruiser of any vintage under P1,000,000, that’s never going to happen. Even if you go as far back as the 80 Series, those examples still fetch a lot of money, especially local units and original left-hand drive units. Want an original left-hand drive 70 Series? Good luck. But there is still a way into Land Cruiser ownership without having to go back nearly 30 years.
Enter, the 120 Series Prado. It may not be the full-size version, but the Prado still has more than enough Land Cruiser DNA to be able to take on trails, dunes, and everything in between. Locally, we got a 3.0-liter turbodiesel that was nowhere near brisk with just 125hp and 296Nm, but that same engine is proven robust and durable. Plus, it’s a Prado so it’s smooth on road and great off-road. Just watch out for the swing-out tailgate’s hinges that become misaligned due to age.
For the brave one: 2002 to 2005 Land Rover Range Rover L322
Word of warning: Just because you can pick up an early example of the third-gen Range Rover under a million, it doesn’t mean you won't expect a few, er, issues. Remember, these were nearly P10-M when new, and their running costs are that of a luxury vehicle.
But if you’re willing to take the plunge and blow the initial budget on repairs and maintenance, the L322 Range Rover is one of the best off-roaders in the world. Get everything sorted, and you get VIP limo that’s not afraid to go axle-deep in mud, climb rocks, or get dunked in water. If it’s off-roading in maximum comfort, the Range Rover is the only answer.
