Crossovers entered the auto market as a simplified alternative to classic off-roaders; however, in recent years most models in this segment have turned into tall hatchbacks without real off-road potential. Nevertheless, fully functional all-wheel-drive options are still available in dealerships — and there are not as few of them as it might seem at first glance. RBC-Ukraine has prepared an overview of five new affordable crossovers with full four-wheel drive capable of meeting the expectations of even those who regularly venture beyond the asphalt.
Crossover vs. Off-Roader: Where the Line Is Drawn
Before discussing specific models, it is important to clearly separate "SUV-style" crossovers from true body-on-frame all-terrain vehicles. Real off-roaders have a number of design differences: a ladder-frame architecture, a low-range transfer case, a transfer box, off-road tires, and significant ground clearance. Individual elements from this list can be found in crossovers, but not all at once, and the most crucial point — the frame construction — is fundamentally absent in crossovers. This does not make crossovers useless: they are quite suitable for the city, highways, and moderate off-roading, but taking them into a serious forest or quarry is not recommended.
Jeep: Electric Motor Instead of a Driveshaft and 400 mm Wading Depth
It is no coincidence that Jeep ranks first in this selection of all-wheel-drive crossovers — the brand that once founded the genre of light, affordable all-terrain vehicles. Of course, it is far from uncompromising ancestors like the Willys and Wrangler, but a ground clearance of 210 mm and a wading depth of 400 mm, paired with all-wheel drive, mean a lot. At the same time, the 4×4 mode is implemented atypically: a 21 kW electric motor is installed on the rear axle instead of the usual driveshaft, transfer case, and a pair of differentials. Up front are 21st-century technologies as well — a gasoline engine paired with a hybrid setup and an automatic transmission. The car is also well-adapted for urban environments: it runs on electric power for up to 50% of city routes and features a purely electric mode for comfortable parking.
Suzuki Vitara: Twelfth Year of the Fourth Generation and "Classic" Interior
This model seems the sportiest in the lineup. Its 1.4-liter turbo engine — currently the only powertrain option — makes the car brisk, eager to accelerate at any engine speed and from any speed, and this applies to the version with the 6-speed automatic transmission as well. Meanwhile, the Vitara in its fourth generation has been in production for twelve years now — which is why fans of classic solutions love it: analog instrument dials, a traditional hydromechanical "automatic," and a generous set of physical buttons on the dashboard. Regarding all-wheel drive: yes, this is no longer that frame-based "Vitara" — the uncompromising off-roader that the model was in its first three generations. But neither is it a soft-roader with nominal AWD, which most of its current peers are. On loose soil, the inter-axle clutch of the Suzuki Vitara can be locked manually, and in "automatic" mode, it instantly engages the rear axle, preventing the car from bogging down. A rarity for the segment — the clutch withstands prolonged off-road driving without overheating. Test drivers also praise the efficient operation of the cross-axle locks.
Subaru Crosstrek: Boxer Engine, Symmetrical AWD, and 220 mm Clearance
Another car with plenty of classic features, but strictly "Subaru" classic: a horizontal boxer engine — a torquey full-displacement unit (2.0 L, 156 hp), permanent symmetrical all-wheel drive, and Japanese reliability. The transmission is exclusively automatic — a proprietary CVT well-tuned to the engine and all-wheel drive. In appearance, the Crosstrek is not necessarily an off-road benchmark, but it makes a clear nod to direct contact with nature: black plastic cladding on all lower body parts and a high ground clearance of 220 mm. On the downside — simple interior trim and not much space inside.
Renault Duster: The Main Contender for the Title of "People's" Crossover
Is there any need to introduce the Duster, which across all generations has topped Ukrainian sales charts — not just among crossovers, but among all passenger cars? The main feature of this model is its maximum adaptation to local operating conditions. This includes high ground clearance (217 mm for the 4×4 version), low maintenance costs, and durability. And you are unlikely to find such a robust, energy-absorbing, and comfortable suspension for rough roads anywhere else. In Ukraine, the Renault Duster is offered with three engine choices — a 1.5 diesel, a 1.2, and a 1.3 gasoline, which is an exception for this lineup. However, the 4×4 transmission is only paired with the downsized 1.2-liter gasoline turbo engine supplemented by a hybrid setup.
Mazda CX-30: "Old School" and Rich Equipment
We dare say this is the most affluent car in this group — including in technical terms. Although the CX-30 cannot be called an old model, it is designed largely according to old-school canons: a full-displacement 2.0-liter atmospheric engine, thoughtful ergonomics, and attention to detail that are increasingly rare in the budget crossover segment. It is precisely the combination of an affordable price, all-wheel drive, and a high level of trim that makes the CX-30 one of the most interesting offerings for those looking not just for a "tall car," but for a crossover with real capabilities.
