2020 FOUR WHEELER SUV OF THE YEAR
Four Wheeler’s SUV of the Year is the hard-core, weeklong shootout where we determine the best SUV by significant driving in sand and snow, up hills and across dunes, over jagged rocks, through water, and more. To test the 2020 models, we drove each SUV roughly 1,000 miles, mixing highway and track data in with our off-road testing. By the end of one week, our handpicked panel of judges—a crop of seasoned experts in everything 4x4 and off-road, had selected a winner. Here’s how it all went down.
Invitations were sent out to all brand-new or substantially revised four-wheel-drive SUVs with a two-speed transfer case (or equivalent) that produces low-range-type gearing. Vehicles were also required to have a production run of at least 1,500 vehicles in the United States and had to be available on dealer lots by March 15, 2020. Three SUVs accepted the invitation: the Land Rover Range Rover Sport HSE MHEV 3.0L, the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon EcoDiesel, and the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara eTorque 3.6L. Among the three vehicles, two packed a mild-hybrid electric punch under the hood and one ran on diesel. One had an adjustable air suspension and all three were built to be extremely capable off-road.
For five full days, and often into the night, our panel of judges examined every intricacy of the SUVs and recorded their findings in official logbooks. We checked for skidplates, adjusted seats, shifted in and out of driving modes and four-wheel-drive systems, measured for driver and passenger headroom, counted cupholders, and much more. Judges rotated in and out of each vehicle at regular, frequent intervals, giving each person ample time to experience the SUVs in all scenarios. Our goal was to figure out what worked, what didn’t, and relay the results you. Whether you’re looking for a new wheeling rig or keeping tabs on what’s new in the SUV space, we’ve done the dirty work. Which SUV will win in this three-way ultimate testdrive? Read on to find out.
3rd Place Land Rover Range Rover Sport HSE P360
What’s New
The Range Rover Sport HSE qualified for SUV of the Year with its all-new mild-hybrid inline six-cylinder 3.0L Ingenium gas-powered engine. The 48-volt setup is said to give the SUV smoother acceleration and enhanced performance over its V-6 relatives using an electric supercharger paired with a twin-scroll turbocharger. The Rover came in the P360 flavor, producing 355 hp (compared to the P400 with a 395hp output). The Rover’s fully independent suspension and the onboard air system were capable of raising and lowering the vehicle when Terrain Response off-road mode was selected, increasing ground clearance and
