Dacia Duster
Let’s start with the Dacia Duster, a popular off-roader in Europe. It may not be as well-known in the United States, but it has made quite a name for itself across the pond. The Duster was introduced in 2010 and brought a fresh and modern option to the off-roader segment. While it may not be the most nimble when it comes to handling, it offers a great balance between daily drivability and off-road capability.
Unlike some of its larger American counterparts, the Duster is more like a crossover than a burly SUV. It’s built on a unibody platform, which means it’s not as heavy or rugged as traditional body-on-frame SUVs. However, it still packs a punch when it comes to off-road adventures. Equipped with the optional four-wheel-drive system, it can handle mild off-roading with ease. Plus, it’s compact enough to navigate through crowded urban centers, making it a versatile choice for both city dwellers and adventure seekers.
Fiat Panda 4×4
Now let’s move on to the Fiat Panda 4×4, a unique and capable off-roader that has been roaming the European Alps for over three decades. The Panda was originally introduced in 1980 as a city car, but in 1983, Fiat added a four-wheel-drive system to create the 4×4 variant. This transformed the Panda into a small but mighty off-roader.
With its increased ground clearance and rugged design, the Panda 4×4 can tackle terrain that most other city cars wouldn’t dare to venture on. It may not be the fastest car on the road, but speed was never its selling point. Its true strength lies in its mountain goat-like off-road capabilities, making it the perfect companion for outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore the great outdoors.
Monteverdi Safari
Now, let’s take a trip back in time to the 1970s and explore the Monteverdi Safari. You may not have heard of Monteverdi before, but this Swiss brand made a name for itself by producing luxury cars, including 2+2 coupes. In 1977, Monteverdi decided to enter the SUV segment and introduced the Safari.
The Safari had a boxy design reminiscent of the original Range Rover and a luxurious interior that wouldn’t look out of place in a sport sedan. Underneath its stylish exterior, it shared its frame, V8 engine, and four-wheel-drive system with the International-Harvester Scout II. This combination of European design and American power made the Safari a unique and ahead-of-its-time SUV.
Unfortunately, production of the Safari came to an end in 1982 when the Scout II retired, leaving Monteverdi without a donor car for its SUV. However, its legacy lived on as Monteverdi created a four-door version of the Range Rover, which became immensely popular and eventually led to Land Rover taking over production.
Nissan Patrol
Next up is the Nissan Patrol, a 4×4 that has been around since the 1950s. While it may be more well-known in the United States as the second-generation Armada, its roots go back much further. The Patrol made its debut in 1951 as a Jeep CJ-like off-roader and evolved into a more advanced SUV over the years.
The fourth-generation Patrol, known as the Y60 internally, arrived in 1987 with improved dimensions and a longer list of features that made it more comfortable on the road. It was even marketed as the Ford Maverick in Australia for several years. With its part-time four-wheel-drive system and a wide range of available engines, the Patrol became a favorite among off-roading enthusiasts. Its durability and aftermarket support made it a popular choice for those looking to build a serious off-roading rig.
Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
Lastly, let’s talk about the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, a smaller version of the iconic Land Cruiser. In Europe, the Land Cruiser Prado is highly regarded for its excellent off-road capabilities and towing capacity. It’s a no-nonsense SUV that is designed to get the job done.
With its body-on-frame construction and two or four-door options, the Prado is built to handle tough terrains and heavy loads. Its entry-level model comes with a powerful turbodiesel engine and a six-speed manual transmission. While it may not be the most luxurious or the fastest SUV on the market, it is highly capable and reliable, making it a popular choice among Europeans who need a workhorse rather than a flashy ride.
Although the Land Cruiser Prado has yet to make its way to the United States under that name, there are rumors that Toyota plans to reintroduce the Land Cruiser and bring a version closely related to the Prado overseas. This would give American off-road enthusiasts a taste of what Europeans have been enjoying for years.
In conclusion, Europe has its fair share of impressive off-roaders that may not have received the same attention as their American counterparts. From the practical and affordable Dacia Duster to the rugged and capable Fiat Panda 4×4, these European off-roaders offer unique options for those looking to explore the great outdoors. And let’s not forget about the Monteverdi Safari, a Swiss SUV ahead of its time, the versatile Nissan Patrol, and the reliable Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. So, next time you’re in Europe, keep an eye out for these cool off-roaders that have never received permission to hang out with the Jeep crew in Moab.