Volkswagen Tiguan

Since 2008 the Volkswagen Tiguan has sold over 700,000 units worldwide, meaning it’s one incredibly popular small 4x4.

Its name came from a German car magazine’s competition and melds the German words for Tiger (tiger) and Iguana (Leguan).

It’s a stylish, well-built car which is available with either two- or four-wheel drive depending on your requirements. However, if you’re intending on serious offroading, the Escape model is the one to pick. This sports underbody protection and shorter overhangs so it doesn’t fall down when the going gets tough.