Are Four Wheel Drive Motorhomes Worth Buying in NZ?

Imagine navigating winding gravel roads to wake up to breathtaking views in remote corners of New Zealand. A four wheel drive motorhome opens up access to these incredible experiences but not to the same degree as a Toyota Landcruiser — so will it truly be worth your investment?

In this article, we assess the different kinds of motorhome drivetrains and their benefits. Plus, we discuss whether four wheel drive and all wheel drive motorhomes are the same.

We also examine the costs and practicalities of owning a four wheel drive, why you might buy one and the importance of choosing a motorhome that fits your lifestyle.

Is a four wheel drive motorhome right for you?

You may have heard of the colloquial, tongue-in-cheek term Remuera tractor. It refers to sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and four wheel drives owned by relatively affluent people in wealthy suburbs like Remuera in Auckland.

Four wheel drive vehicles and SUVs were designed for farm and off-road use — but some city folk utilise them for dropping the kids at school or darting down to the supermarket. Hence, the irony of the Remuera tractor — a large, imposing utilitarian-style vehicle that appears to be a little more rugged than what’s required for urban driving.

Aspirational versus practical reasons

This lighthearted Kiwi humour brings us to why you might want to buy a four wheel drive motorhome in the first place. It might be for the aspirational reason of feeling like you could head out into the freedom camping wilderness at any time — even though you’ll most likely stick to campgrounds.

Alternatively, you may see how you can use the practical benefits of a four wheel drive motorhome off-the-beaten-track and be attracted to its real off-grid benefits.

Four wheel drive motorhomes can’t be taken off-road in the same rugged way that a classic Toyota Landcruiser can — due to differences in design and purpose. They’re heavier and built for comfort and living, which can limit their ability to navigate rough terrain.

However, a four wheel drive motorhome can take you to incredibly special remote places where two wheel drive RVs simply can’t go.

How a four wheel drive can make a difference

In February 2023, a group of freedom campers stayed overnight in their motorhomes next to a river in the Tasman region. In the early morning, they found water levels rising alarmingly as Cyclone Gabrielle unexpectedly blew through the region.

Heavy cyclonic rain saturated the access track over the flood bank that the motorhomes used to access the riverside the previous evening. None of the front wheel drive RVs could gain enough traction to climb back over it to safety.

Fortunately, a four wheel drive motorhome was among the group. It came to the rescue of the others — towing one of the stricken recreational vehicles over the flood bank before returning to hook up the next one.

Different types of motorhome drivetrains

When researching your ideal motorhome, you may start by comparing front wheel drive and rear wheel drive. The main difference between them is the drivetrain.

The other RV drivetrains are four wheel drive and all wheel drive — the latter using an automated system that can vary how much energy each wheel receives.

A motorhome’s drivetrain determines how engine power gets distributed to its wheels, which impacts performance, fuel efficiency and the ability to handle different terrains.

To sum up, the most common types of motorhome drivetrains are:

• Front wheel drive (FWD) — engine power is sent to your motorhome’s front wheels
  
  
• Rear wheel drive (RWD) — power from the engine is delivered to the rear wheels
  
  
• All wheel drive (AWD) — engine power gets distributed to all four wheels
  
  
• Four wheel drive (4WD) — the engine’s power is transferred to all four wheels, though you usually have to engage the drive system manually.

The benefits of each motorhome drivetrain

Choosing a motorhome with the right drivetrain to suit your touring plans is crucial. Everything from fuel efficiency to handling and off-road capability to traction is impacted — particularly in various driving conditions.

Here, we talk about the differences between front, rear, four and all wheel drive motorhomes.

Front wheel drive motorhomes

Front wheel drive recreational vehicles are the most common type for sale. Why? Because they’re the most affordable. They offer a practical combination of space efficiency, fuel economy and manoeuvrability — making them ideally suited to the needs of many RV travellers.

If you’re new to motorhoming, a front wheel drive may be your best option because they’re perfect for beginners who:

• Like the sense of security when driving on well-maintained roads
  
  
• Want a relatively smaller RV that’s basic to handle and easy to drive.

Front wheel drive motorhomes are most suitable for paved roads. They’re not recommended for challenging terrain as they can struggle up steep hills, on loose surfaces like gravel and in slippery conditions like ice. This is particularly the case if they’re underpowered.

Transverse powertrains

Many motorhomes are built using truck platforms from European brands like Ford, Fiat, Renault and Volkswagen. Engines are placed transversely (sideways) across the front of the platforms. This engine setup powers the front wheels through a manual or automatic gearbox — also located in an across-the-vehicle position.

The big advantages of these transverse powertrains are:

• Lower cost — both production and running expenses
  
  
• Weight savings — which often increase the vehicle’s payload.

Electronic locking differentials

Some front wheel drive motorhome platforms now have front electronic locking differentials fitted to enhance traction.

An electronic locking differential lets you electronically lock the axle, forcing both wheels to rotate at the same speed. This ensures that power is delivered to both wheels — maximising your traction and helping you overcome obstacles or free your RV from mud.

Volkswagen has long trumpeted the tractive abilities of the electronic differential lock (EDL) fitted to its Crafter and Transporter vans. Now, the eighth-generation Fiat Ducato has joined the EDL party with a similar traction aid, which Fiat calls Traction Plus.

Rear wheel drive motorhomes

Rear wheel drive motorhomes offer a different driving experience with some distinct advantages. They excel with heavy loads and can offer increased stability and durability on demanding road trips.

If you’re an experienced RV driver, you may want to consider a rear wheel drive motorhome as they require:

• More careful handling — especially in wet conditions
  
  
• Proficient driving skills and a cautious approach — particularly when heavily loaded
  
  
• An understanding of how rear wheel drives handle.

Rear wheel drive motorhomes are less common than front wheel drive, but many manufacturers still offer rear wheel drive RVs built on truck chassis. They also remain commonplace in larger integrated motorhomes — notably in North America as they can more effectively handle weight distribution and towing.

Rear wheel drive recreational vehicles can also be less stable in slippery conditions. They have had a propensity to fishtail in the past, though it’s less likely now as newer motorhomes come with safety features and design elements that significantly reduce this risk.

Learn about the benefits of front wheel drive over rear wheel drive motorhomes.

A legacy of the last century

In the 20^th century, most commercial delivery vehicles drove the rear wheels with engines and transmissions mounted longitudinally — from north to south. They delivered driving force via long, relatively heavy drive shafts.

The two major motorhome chassis manufacturers that continue to provide longitudinal rear drive platforms are Mercedes-Benz, through its Sprinter range, and Iveco — with its robust Daily delivery vehicles.

These brands are holding on to rear wheel drive because it:

• Lowers the stress on steering components
  
  
• Can provide better traction in certain situations
  
  
• Traditionally has a more prestigious image than front wheel drive.

Larger motorhomes often use rear wheel drive platforms because they’re better adapted to hauling heavier loads. This is especially true if they feature dual wheels on either side of the rear differential.

See this owner's story about buying a rear wheel drive motorhome.

Four wheel drive motorhomes

If you want to go where other RVs can't, four wheel drive motorhomes can handle some off-road terrain and unpredictable conditions. They achieve this with a system that sends power to all four wheels — to help you maximise traction and control on challenging surfaces.

Four wheel drive motorhomes often require manual engagement and can feature a low-range gear specifically designed for off-road terrain. If you’re an adventurous traveller comfortable in a wide range of conditions, a four wheel drive motorhome may be ideal for you because it can offer:

• Off-road capability for more freedom — but you’ll need to have respect for the RV and the environment
  
  
• A feeling of safety — when confronted with challenging situations
  
  
• Promising resale value — usually holding their value in New Zealand if well maintained.

So, is a four wheel drive motorhome a must-have for exploring NZ? The short answer is no — but it does provide some distinct advantages.

With a four wheel drive, you’ll have the ability to reach more remote campsites and confidently explore New Zealand’s varied landscapes — whether you prefer beaches, mountains or just being off-the-beaten-path.

If you enjoy freedom camping and want the flexibility to go off-grid, four wheel drive RVs can make those experiences much more accessible. They can take on difficult topography, like loose surfaces and steep slopes.

To explore these types of landscapes safely, you’ll need to learn about four wheel drive systems and off-road driving techniques — if you’re not already familiar with them.

Check out these top tips for off-road motorhome travel in New Zealand.

All wheel drive motorhomes

All wheel drive motorhomes offer increased grip and manoeuvrability without the total commitment of a dedicated four wheel drive system. They do this by automatically sending power to all four wheels when you need it — providing better road holding on slippery surfaces or across loose terrain.

If you’re a traveller who prioritises versatility, safety and confidence without needing the total off-road capability of a four wheel drive, an all wheel drive motorhome may be ideal. It can provide:

• Precise control over the power distribution to each wheel
  
  
• Enhanced traction and handling — on a variety of surfaces and in diverse conditions
  
  
• Seamless automatic transmission — simplifying your driving experience by letting you focus on steering and navigating harsh conditions without worrying about manual gear changes.

Given the growing interest in all wheel drive RVs, some brands have made it one of their key selling points.

HYMER offers a range of sturdy compact motorhome models on a raised suspension. They use the all wheel drive version of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van as their platform — termed 4matic in Merc-speak.

Mercedes 4matic all wheel drive system

The all wheel drive Sprinter has recently adopted Mercedes’ more urbane 4matic system. Versions made before 2022 used a more conventional four wheel drive system from the Mercedes-owned Austrian subsidiary Oberaigner — which also offers proper four wheel drive conversion kits for the Renault Master and Volkswagen Crafter.

The major difference with the Sprinter’s new 4matic system is that it’s more road-oriented than before — as it was originally developed for passenger cars and SUVs.

The Sprinter 4matic's default driving mode is to drive the rear wheels. Should a slippery surface be encountered, the system automatically redistributes torque to whichever tyres will most help the vehicle maintain traction and remain stable. 

The new 4matic driveline enables savings in both vehicle mass and the overall cost of components compared to the previous Oberaigner four wheel drive Sprinter. This reduces fuel use and raises the maximum payload as heavy driveline components like the transfer case no longer need to be accommodated.

The 4matic driveline is also arguably safer than the previous system because:

• The engagement of all wheel drive is automatic
  
  
• It doesn’t rely on any human factor.

In New Zealand, the Volkswagen Grand California campervan range can only be bought with an all wheel drive system — known as 4motion.

Volkswagen 4motion all wheel drive system

Volkswagen’s 4motion system is about as simple as an all wheel driveline can be. It consists of a rear drive shaft that constantly receives engine force and twin drive shafts that move the front wheels when the RV is in motion.

When the front tyres lose traction, a special coupling connecting the rear drive shaft to the rear differential engages — instantly sending drive to the rear wheels. As soon as the front tyres regain traction, the coupling disengages and drive to the rear tyres ceases.

The 4motion is one of the lightest all wheel drive systems, designed for space-saving, transversely mounted engines.

Are four wheel drive and all wheel drive RVs the same?

All wheel drive and four wheel drive systems aren’t exactly the same — though they’re often used interchangeably in conversation because they both send power to all four wheels.

The main difference in how they operate and their intended uses are that:

• Four wheel drive motorhomes are generally manually engaged and designed for maximum off-road traction
  
  
• All wheel drive motorhomes automatically detect when extra traction is needed and send power to all four wheels as required, enhancing all-around performance in various conditions, including on-road and light off-road driving.

The costs and practicalities of owning a four wheel drive

Consider the practical aspects and costs associated with owning and operating a four wheel drive motorhome to make a better-informed decision about whether one is right for you.

Costs of owning a four wheel drive motorhome

Compared to two wheel drive recreational vehicles, four wheel drive RVs commonly come with higher initial price tags and ongoing expenses. When budgeting for a four wheel drive motorhome, you can expect some higher costs, including:

• The purchase price — due to the added complexity and heavier-duty components required for four wheel drive systems, like extra driveshafts and reinforced axles
  
  
• Insurance premiums — off-road capability and perceived higher risk may lead to paying more for insurance than with a two wheel drive motorhome
  
  
• Maintenance and repairs — as a result of more complex systems like specialised parts, labour expertise and transfer cases (four wheel drive gearboxes)
  
  
• Fuel expenses — the increased weight of components, higher tyre rolling resistance, and more drivetrain friction are all factors, although there isn’t usually a dramatic difference in cost.

Practicalities of owning a four wheel drive RV

While the appeal of a four wheel drive motorhome is in its go-anywhere ability, some practical considerations set it apart from its two wheel drive siblings, including:

• Driving — four wheel drive RVs are usually heavier and require more driving skill, especially when navigating tight spaces or tricky terrain
  
  
• Parking — can be more challenging to park if it’s too high for certain parking areas.

Despite these cost and practicality considerations, it’s important to remember that a few upsides can come with them. For instance, repair and maintenance costs may be higher, but four wheel drives are built for more arduous conditions — so they can potentially handle more wear and tear over time.

Why buy a four wheel drive motorhome

Although four wheel drive RVs usually come with higher price tags than two wheel drive ones, they offer unique advantages.

The overnight rain while freedom camping scenario leads to one. Should you need to climb a wet grassy slope to reach the road and continue your journey, a four wheel drive motorhome will handle the task better than a two wheel drive.

If you have an adventurous streak and enjoy an elevated level of freedom, consider purchasing a four wheel drive motorhome to:

• Be able to reach more remote freedom camping locations — some of which may be inaccessible to two wheel drive motorhomes
  
  
• Feel confident and in control driving over rugged earth — like gravel roads and uneven terrain
  
  
• Enjoy greater peace of mind — with an RV built to be better prepared for challenging off-road conditions and unexpected weather events.

Four wheel drive motorhomes can often carry a heavier payload than two wheel drive. Therefore, you may be able to take more outdoor equipment, such as mountain bikes and kayaks, on your adventures.

Discover one of the best off-road motorhomes in New Zealand.

Choosing a motorhome to fit your lifestyle

Think carefully about the type of travel you want to do in your own motorhome. Is a four wheel drive motorhome your best fit — especially if you prefer lots of living space in the habitation unit?

Manufacturers aren’t encouraged to equip large motorhomes for off-road conditions because size matters when you’re trying to traverse a backcountry track or cross a creek. The larger your RV, the less likely it can fit through tight gaps on a forest track.

The ready-to-go HYMER CrossOver

Recreational vehicles built ready to travel off-road are usually modified campervans or compact motorhomes — such as the fit-for-purpose HYMER ML-T 570 CrossOver.

The CrossOver may offer the best combination of camping comfort and the ability to go well off-grid. The aptly-named CrossOver is one of the few turnkey, off-road-ready motorhome models available on the New Zealand market, with its:

• Raised suspension — which gives higher clearance between the underbody and the ground, reducing the risk of damage when crossing uneven terrain
  
  
• Off-road tyres — with tougher tread patterns and reinforced sidewalls for better traction and puncture resistance
  
  
• Robustly strengthened cabin — through a reinforced chassis and underbody shielding, like an engine protection plate.

Check out our buyers’ guide to motorhome chassis and construction.

The latest version of the CrossOver uses the 4matic-equipped Mercedes Sprinter as its platform. How does this compare with the conventional four wheel drive system of a 4x4 ute converted locally into a motorhome or the 4motion driveline of the Volkswagen Grand California?

The not-so-ready-to-go Volkswagen Grand California

Volkswagen’s Grand California 600 and 680 campervan models are available in the NZ market and come with 4motion all wheel drive. However, their low ride height and urbane wheel and tyre packages mean extensive modifications must be made to their suspension and running gear before they become realistic off-road RVs.

Alternatives such as locally-built 4x4 ute conversions generally have long waiting times between placing an order and driving your RV away — with some companies working through a two year waitlist.

Ultimately, you’ll need to weigh up the pros against the cons to decide whether it’s worth buying a four wheel drive in New Zealand. Consider each drivetrain type and its respective benefits, the costs and practicalities of owning a four wheel drive, and whether it fits in with your future lifestyle.

Read this independent RV review of the HYMER CrossOver motorhome.