There’s little benefit for most in a 4x4

There is a growing demand for 4x4s. Whether it’s a full-size off-roader, crossover, or four-wheel drive saloon, car buyers are increasingly likely to choose a car with all of its wheels driven.

Many buyers cite the extra grip and traction offered by an all-wheel-drive car when the weather turns bad as a reason for choosing this type of vehicle. Some say they need the added ground clearance of a 4x4 for the roads they drive on, while other drivers note the ability to tow a trailer.

Whatever the reason, and there are plenty, choosing a 4x4 vehicle over a two-wheel- drive version does mean making some compromises. The most obvious trade-off with a 4x4 is fuel economy as the all-wheel drive transmission creates extra resistance that means more fuel is spent overcoming this.