Choosing the best 4x4 diesel is based on the purchaser determining what his or her needs are and finding a vehicle that will meet them. The vast majority of diesel trucks produced today are offered with available four-wheel drive, many coming standard with 4x4 capability. Choosing a 4x4 diesel will depend on three major factors: cost, features, and performance.
The most important part of selecting a 4x4 diesel truck is determining how much a person is willing to spend on it. Trucks are generally more expensive than cars, due to the heavy duty components and overall size of the vehicle. Prices fluctuate depending on the model selected, with a base model 4x4 diesel truck being the least expensive, and prices for top-of-the-line models being more expensive. Pricing and features are competitive between major manufacturers, with most of them offering similar features that differ only slightly from one another.
With a budget in mind, the next step is to decide what features the truck must possess. With most models offering everything from GPS navigation and television screens to advanced trailer-sway control systems, you can easily become overwhelmed by possibilities. The key to picking what options to pay for is accurately determining for what the truck will be used.
If the primary purpose of the truck is for work duty, skip the leather seats and DVD players and opt for the bed liner and heavy duty shocks. If the truck will be used extensively for towing, especially long distances, be sure to have the top-of-the-line engine and transmission installed, as well as the trailer-sway controller that the manufacturer offers. Of course, purchasing the top-of-the-line four series turbo-diesel with leather everything, and more gadgets will provide the purchaser with all of the above in one vehicle, but will be at the top of the price bracket.
The most important aspect of any vehicle, especially trucks, is the performance of critical driveline and suspension components. All trucks have multiple engine options, ranging from mild-mannered six bangers, to eight- and ten-cylinder stump pullers. Power is important in the truck world, but even the lowliest diesel engines installed in modern trucks are twice as powerful as those installed on previous versions.
Of course, every 4x4 diesel must be equipped with a bulletproof transfer case and axles that can stand up to any off-road punishment thrown at it. All four-wheel drive systems installed on modern trucks are electronically controlled, which means no yanking on 4x4 levers or leaving the cab to engage the hubs. Most trucks have optional stability control systems and even locking rear differentials for hardcore off-road enthusiasts. If the truck will be used for frequent towing, a self-leveling suspension system will help to stabilize heavy, awkward loads.