Zimbabwe is very much a gear head country with a love of cars that is truly uncontested. As Zimbabwe’s leading distributor of lubricants and filters HP Lubes Castrol, we have decided to curate a list of the best 4X4 vehicles that we have been helping to propel on the Zimbabwean Roads. And that’s exactly what the vehicles on this list are: true mud-plugging machines built to handle the kind of terrain that would give a mountain goat second thoughts. As usual, there aren’t any clear-cut options in this type of vehicle because some prioritize off-road performance above all else while others are the consummate all-rounders, equally at home bouncing over boulders as they are ripping along tarmac.
1. TOYOTA LAND CRUISER
The Toyota Land Cruiser has a legendary resume as an off-roader especially in Zimbabwe, but the current model comes across as more luxurious than adventurous which has prompted its utilization as a luxury vehicle that is highly featured on the presidential motorcade. Still, this large two- or three-row SUV continues to be sturdily built and hugely capable. While it’s not as opulent as its corporate counterpart, the Lexus Lx , the Land Cruiser has been outfitted with a plethora of upscale features in an attempt to justify its towering sticker price.
We’re not particularly impressed by the big Toyota’s interior trappings, but we do like that it’s equipped with serious, trail-ready equipment such as a two-speed transfer case and a locking center differential. Its standard 381-hp V-8 engine isn’t particularly special, and it’s certainly not fuel efficient, but it moves the rig with authority. The Land Cruiser has the prestige of equally expensive metal, but it’s a lot more capable than most of them out in the boondocks despite not being taken out often in Zimbabwe.
2. TOYOTA HILUX
The Toyota Hilux has built up a reputation since its introduction in 1967 as a tough and durable workhand and there has been a frenzy about this 4×4 In Zimbabwe with many associating it with wealth, but also at the same time unlike most 4x4s on this list it is actually used off-road very often. Especially the 2018 GD6 model. One of the most striking aspects of this model is its size. The Toyota Hilux appears to be a lot bulkier – and that’s because it is.
3. FORD RANGER
It is the most popular pickup in Zimbabwe. But more than that, it has been one of the best-selling pick-up in Africa for the previous six years and now holds about 40% of the market. Ford sold more Ranger vehicles in the Zimbabwe high up there with Toyota’s Hilux. The 2023 Ford Ranger pickup is backed by decades of adventures. Its impressive payload and 2.3L EcoBoost engine mean you can go practically anywhere and do just about anything with confidence. Conquer your next roadblock in a Ranger.
4. RANGE ROVER
The Range Rover’s famed off-road prowess isn’t what draws elites from across Zimbabwe; rather, it’s the SUV’s effortlessly elegant styling, sumptuous interior, and A-list reputation that it has grown through time. The Range Rover for 2023 is the most opulent model yet and yes we have seen it on Zimbabwean Roads. Three different engine options, including a hybrid, provide more than enough power. The brand’s largest SUV drives smoothly through traffic and has a quiet interior. All-wheel drive is standard on the Range Rover, and the air suspension can be elevated to provide additional ground clearance. However, we know that few people will actually dare to submit this moving work of art to such indignity.
5. GMW P SERIES
The GWM P-Series Passenger Double Cab is a brand-new addition to the range of strong, reliable, and “workaholic” Zimbabwean bakkies that are built for true adaptability. This sort of new anomaly on the roads has been present in Zimbabwe propelled by its major distributor Zimoco. This legendary bakkie is powerful, not just instinctively, but practically. To elevate your travels to even greater heights, the Commercial Double Cab features an option of a responsive 8AT and 6MT gearbox, multi-link rear suspension, and a diesel or petrol variant.
