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What Is a 4x4 Motorhome?

Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari

A 4x4 motorhome is a type of vehicle that is designed for on- and off-road driving as well as daily living or camping. The size and design of the 4x4 motorhome can vary drastically, though the basic principles are the same: the motorhome will feature four-wheel drive, overbuilt suspension, a larger engine, larger tires with extra tread, and other heavy-duty components that make it suitable for driving over treacherous terrain. The living space can vary in size, though there is almost always a sleeping area as well as a table or other living space.

The size of a 4x4 motorhome can vary, but they do tend to be quite large. The clearance between the ground and the undercarriage is usually quite high to allow for driving over rocks and other obstacles, so the motorhome itself is often quite high off the ground, requiring steps to get into the living space of the home. The larger tires can also add to the overall height of the vehicle. Many 4x4 motorhome models compensate for this added height, which can make the unit unstable and more prone to rollovers, by widening the wheelbase for added stability.

A 4x4 motorhome may feature a cooking area with a stove.
A 4x4 motorhome may feature a cooking area with a stove.

The interior of the 4x4 motorhome can vary in size, design, and included components and furniture. Many motorhomes feature one or more beds that may be permanent fixtures or fold-out versions that can be stowed when the vehicle is being driven. If the motorhome features a pop-up design, an extra sleeping area is often locked in the pop-up area. Any chairs that are included in the living area are often mounted on swivels to allow passengers to face forward when the vehicle is in motion or in other directions when the vehicle is parked. Tables are often foldable to maximize available space.

Depending on the size of the 4x4 motorhome, a full shower and toilet may be included as well. Other features, such as a kitchen or simply a stove and sink, may be included as well, though these added features do take up more space and will require special storage tanks or hook ups to deal with wastewater. It is not uncommon to see models with retractable awnings mounted to the outside of the motorhome; these awnings essentially expand the usable living space when the vehicle is parked, and they provide shade and protection from the elements.

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    • A 4x4 motorhome may feature a cooking area with a stove.
      By: Maygutyak
      A 4x4 motorhome may feature a cooking area with a stove.