9 Old 4X4s you can still buy new

Don't say goodbye to the classic 4X4. There are still a range of old 4X4’s you can buy brand new. In fact, we've found 9 of them!

Some 4X4’s just have a constant spot in our heart, no matter how many new vehicles hit the market with the bells and whistles of fancy features and upgrades. Thankfully, you don’t always have to say goodbye to the classic 4X4 you’ve come to admire. Nor do you have to buy an oldie with tonnes of kilometres on the odometer. There are still a range of old 4X4’s you can buy brand new. In fact, here’s 9 of them.

1. Bowler CSP575

The original Land Rover Defender returned as a Bowler CSP575, after Land Rover granted Bowler Motors the licence to continue to build the classic Defender. In this vehicle, you’ll find the ‘silhouette’ of the 1948 original Land Rover which has been discontinued by Land Rover. It will also use Land Rover’s 567bhp supercharged V8 engine. With room for 4 adventure junkies inside, this vehicle features both high-speed performance and capability for off-road driving.

2. Lada Niva

The iconic Lada Niva was first introduced in 1977 under Soviet ownership. Although it benefitted from improvements over the years, it essentially was made and sold in the same form with the same basic elements. Almost a total return to form, by the time it’s scheduled to go into production in 2024, the Lada Niva Vision concept will represent the first major overhaul of the original Lada Niva in 46 years.

3. UAZ 452 Bukhanka

The UAZ 452 Bukhanka is the perfect example of “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” Since 1965, Russia has been producing the UAZ 452 with virtually no changes as each year rolls by. With off-road capability, this “loaf of bread” is a 4×4 minibus with 6 to 11 seats and a heap of cargo room. The high ground clearance and five-speed manual transmission make it the perfect vessel for bringing your mates along for a 4X4 experience.

4. The G-Wagen

You’ll find that the current G-Wagen may have had few mechanical and suspension upgrades over the years. However, at its core it’s still the same basic platform as you could buy back when Malcolm Fraser was Prime Minister. You can expect an upright seating position and a near vertical windscreen. Not to mention, the knowing stares of people who understand why a 43-year-old wagon that costs more than the GDP of some South American countries is instantly a selling point.

5. The Mahindra Roxor

The Mahindra Roxor takes us right back to the old Willys Jeep, taking plenty of inspiration from the iconic off-roader. In fact, it looks so much like a Jeep that Fiat Chrysler accused Mahindra of ripping off the Jeep Wrangler. This is due to its boxy style, round headlights, rear body panels and front grille. If you look into the legal battle, you’ll find that Mahindra denied the Roxor was a copy, but the company went on to make changes to the vehicle. 

6. The Grand Wagoneer

If you truly want the original, then look no further than Wagonmaster who are restoring Grand Wagoneer’s dating back to 1985. Not only are these vehicles stylish collectible items, they’re fully functional 4X4’s where all the refurbishing has been done for you. The world’s first true Sport Utility Vehicle, the Wagoneer, is considered a symbol of the American dream. Wagonmaster was started by a father and son who passed down the love for Wagoneers through generations. Their attempt to preserve the timeless beauty of this iconic vehicle is your chance to take a trip back through time and drive a restored Wagoneer.

7. Toyota J90 series Prado

The J90 series Prado’s body remains in Toyota’s current wagon. In fact, you’ll find that the door off a 1990 model will bolt right onto a 2022 as a perfect fit. Of course there have been upgrades that have come along since such as a tweaked suspension and a different engine. The general idea of the vehicle is still the essence of the classic J90 series, allowing you to relive those glory days.

8. Maruti Suzuki Gypsy

If you’re missing the SJ410 Jimny that was introduced in 1982, check out the Maruti Suzuki Gypsy. Based on the original SJ410 Jimny, the Maruti Suzuki Gypsy was built as an off-road vehicle and all of its models featured selectable 4WD. In 2018 production officially ceased as a result of tightening emissions and crash standards. However, you’ll still find the Gypsy being produced in batches, so you may be able to get your hands on it.

9. Dongfeng EQ2050

Based on the Humvee, the Dongfeng EQ2050 was created after People’s Liberation Army officials saw the Humvee deployed in the Gulf War. Considered by some as a Chinese copy of the American HMMWV, it’s also known as Mengshi in China. Widely used by the Chinese military, this high mobility vehicle is also available for civilians. The similarities are clear, as the Dongfeng EQ2050 relied heavily on US-made parts, such as the chassis, gearbox and engine.

Found any others? Get in touch and let us know what old school, classic 4X4 you’ve found in a brand new model. Or if you’ve restored old faithful and it’s still off-roading fit.