Unlike most places where four wheel drive vehicles are rarely used for anything more than hopping a kerb, the UAE’s easily accessed wilderness is great for testing the limits of what might otherwise be a suburban run-around. Whether purchasing your first four wheel drive or adding a new ride to your fleet, there are a few things to take into consideration during the shopping process.
Be realistic
If someone in your family hates the idea of getting sand in their hair, you probably won’t end up blazing trails through the desert every weekend. Also, keep in mind that almost any sport utility vehicle with four wheel drive will be relatively capable on beginner trails, so don’t buy beyond your needs; you don’t need a V8 truck with huge tires to pick up the groceries.
Understand the features
The vast majority of sport utility vehicles available in the UAE are either part-time 4WD, full-time 4WD or all-wheel drive. Vehicles with part-time 4WD allow the driver to switch between 2WD and 4WD, depending on the trail or road conditions, whereas full-time 4WD sends power to all four wheels at all times, regardless of road or trail conditions.
All-wheel drive vehicles are a bit more complicated. When road conditions are good, only one axle (either the front or back, depending on the vehicle) receives power. When the vehicle senses that one of the wheels is slipping, it automatically sends power (usually no more than 30%) to the other axle. All-wheel drive vehicles are not usually built to be driven in difficult off-road conditions, but for exploring the region’s easier wadi and mountain trails, they’re a good option.
Part-time and full-time 4WD systems are more capable for off-road since all four wheels receive the same amount of power. Vehicles with these systems also tend to have a ‘low range’ gear box, which is helpful when more torque is needed to get through a tricky section or to get un-stuck.
Part-time 4WD is the most basic of the bunch and also the simplest to build, which means it is often less expensive. Full-time 4WD is a bit more complicated, but provides more traction on the road, since all four wheels receive power. Although wet roads are a rarity in the UAE, vehicles with full-time 4WD will perform better in wet conditions.
Inspect locking differentials
Differentials are found in all vehicles and allow different wheels or axles to spin at different speeds. When turning, the outside wheel will travel a longer distance than the inside wheel, and the differential is the part which allows that to happen. Many off-road vehicles come with an optional locking centre differential, locking rear differential or both. A locking centre differential is helpful in off-road situations because it maintains a 50/50 split of engine power between the front and rear wheels. A locking rear differential is helpful because it keeps both rear wheels spinning at the same speed, even if one wheel has no traction.
Inspect ground clearance
A higher ground clearance will allow you to drive over rougher terrain without damaging the undercarriage of the vehicle. If you plan on exploring the mountains every weekend, you may want a vehicle with a higher ground clearance.
Test-drive
Before putting a deposit on a used 4WD, take it to a trusted mechanic that is familiar with 4WD systems. When test-driving the vehicle, be sure to test all of the features first, including the low range gearbox. Also don’t be afraid to call a dealership and ask about any problems a certain model-year might be known for.
