Best 4x4 and off-road vehicles arriving in 2020

There was a time when crossovers and 4x4s were classified separately, but in recent times they’ve been generally referred to by the same term: SUV.

Love it or hate it, SUVs come in all shapes and sizes, and are here for the long haul. But some enthusiasts are quick to point out the ones with genuine off-road chops and those without.

Next year will see the release of a few new 4x4s, but also a couple of crossovers with a surprising amount of off-road capability. We detail a selection of them here.

Chevrolet Silverado 1500 – April

HSV is back at it again, this time with the new-generation Chevrolet Silverado 1500 full-size pick-up, which will enter showrooms in April.

Just like the Camaro before it, the Silverado 1500 will be locally remanufactured and will ironically become the main rival for a model 'built' in the same factory, the Ram 1500.

Needless to say, the Silverado 1500 will make a massive splash on debut, and not just because of dimensions and weight. Yep, it's properly modern, too.

Land Rover Defender – Mid-2020

When it comes to 4x4s, is there any more iconic than the Land Rover Defender? Well, the time for an all-new model has finally arrived after decades of service.

While the latest Defender shocked with its monocoque chassis upon debut, it is no less capable than before. In fact, it’s arguably more of an off-road beast.

Launching in long-wheelbase 110 form in mid-2020, the Defender will offer buyers a seemingly endless list of customisation options, ensuring you’ll likely never see two alike on the trail.

Mercedes-Benz GLB – May

The Mercedes-Benz GLB is the small premium SUV you never thought you’d need. It’s nearly as a big as the GLC mid-size and boxy like the B-Class tallboy, meaning it can set up to seven people, which is a rarity in this segment.

But perhaps the GLB’s biggest party trick is it can genuinely go off-road. While it’s certainly no Jeep Wrangler, it can be had with all-wheel drive and has drive modes suited to the rough stuff.

Granted we don’t expect many GLB owners to head off the beaten track, it’s nice to know your vehicle is more than just a fashion accessory. Deliveries start in May.

SsangYong Rexton – Early 2020

It’s easy to be taken seriously off-road when you’re a model based on a ute. There are lots of those kicking around at the moment, and the SsangYong Rexton is one them. And in early 2020, it’ll get a facelift.

Yes, it’s a minor nip and tuck, but the Rexton will be further differentiated from its Musso sibling, which wouldn’t be getting the same changes.

Specifically, a new grille with a honeycomb insert, fresh alloy wheels, repositioned badging and middle-row sunblinds can be expected, while petrol and diesel engine options will carry over.

Subaru Outback – Fourth quarter

It’s all in the name, right? This Subaru large SUV (or high-riding wagon if you please) is called Outback, and that means it must be able to perform off-road.

Given it looks like Australia won’t get the mechanically related Liberty sedan in new-generation form, the Outback will have an even bigger role to play when it arrives the fourth quarter, now tasked with exclusively appealing to those that want a large vehicle.

The current Outback is already a good thing, but the latest version takes it to the next level with more technology and a broader suite of advanced driver-assist systems – all things buyers care about.

Want to know what other new models are getting released in 2020? Check out our coverage below.

- The best new cars coming to Australia in 2020

- Best SUVs arriving in 2020

- Best utes arriving in 2020

- Best hatchbacks arriving in 2020

- Best 4x4 and off-road vehicles arriving in 2020

- Best sedans arriving in 2020

- Best electric cars arriving in 2020

- Best sports cars arriving in 2020

Want to know which new models are arriving in 2021? Check out our rolling coverage below.

- The best new cars coming to Australia in 2021

- Best SUVs arriving in 2021

- Best 4x4 and off-road vehicles arriving in 2021

- Best crossovers arriving in 2021

- Best utes arriving in 2021

- Best hatchbacks arriving in 2021

- Best sedans arriving in 2021

- Best electric cars arriving in 2021

- Best sports cars arriving in 2021