These are SA’s cheapest all-wheel drive cars
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3. Fiat Panda Cross - R249 900
The Cross version of the new Panda (also set for launch next week) is essentially the same as the base 4x4 derivative listed on the preceding page but with a bit more ground clearance, some beefier black bodywork, a metal-look skid plate and an extra set of fog lights. It’s also a tad more powerful with 66kW instead of 63. 4. Suzuki Jimny - R258 400 Known in offroading circles as the giant-killer, Suzuki’s diminutive Jimny has been embarrassing much pricier vehicles out on the 4x4 trails for years. Its very short wheelbase and narrow track help it clamber up and over obstacles bigger vehicles could get hung up on, and its selectable 4x4 transfer case with low range allow it to convert from a city-friendly compact SUV to a rough-and-tumble boulder-hopper at the push of a button. An auto version is also available for an extra R18 000.
Renault’s 1.5dCi Dynamique 4WD Duster may be the most expensive of five Duster derivatives (the others are all frontwheel drive), but it still slips into this list of the five cheapest 4x4s in South Africa.
This surprisingly capable compact SUV borrows some drivetrain bits from the bigger Nissan X-Trail, and gets three modes: 2WD for economy, Auto for slippery conditions and 4WD Lock for off-road trails when a permanent split of power between the front and rear wheels is required.