Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1985 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Jeep Cherokee XJ

The Cherokee XJ ranks first because its unibody construction and Command-Trac NP207 part-time 4WD system delivered a combination of light weight, car-like handling, and genuine off-road toughness that no 1985 rival could match. At a base MSRP of $9,995, it undercut most competitors while offering a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 105 horsepower or an optional 2.8-liter GM V6.

The Cherokee XJ is best for buyers who wanted one vehicle for commuting, family hauling, and weekend trail duty without the bulk or fuel bills of a full-size truck. It trades away the V8 muscle and towing capacity of the Ford Bronco or K5 Blazer for efficiency and agility. Compared to the Toyota 4Runner below it, the XJ offers more interior room and a lower price, though it lacks the 4Runner's legendary bulletproof reliability reputation.

2. Toyota 4Runner

The 4Runner ranks second because 1985 is the only year it combined the fuel-injected 22R-E four-cylinder engine with a solid front axle, making it the most coveted first-generation model for off-road enthusiasts. This part-time 4WD SUV with a low-range transfer case earned a reputation for crossing continents without mechanical complaint, backed by Toyota's signature durability.

The 4Runner is best for trail-focused buyers who prioritize dependability above all else and plan to keep a vehicle for decades. It trades away the Cherokee's interior space and lower price for a more rugged, focused off-road package. Compared to the Jeep above it, the 4Runner feels more primitive on pavement but inspires greater confidence on remote trails. Clean solid-axle 1985 SR5 examples now trade well into the tens of thousands on the collector market.

3. Ford Bronco

The Ford Bronco ranks third because its full-size V8 power and removable hardtop made it the most charismatic American 4x4 of 1985, offering a 5.0-liter EFI V8 with 150 horsepower or an optional 5.8-liter 351 Windsor HO with 210 horsepower and 305 lb-ft of torque. This body-on-frame SUV with Touch-Drive electric-shift 4WD delivered genuine towing muscle and trail capability in a package with undeniable presence.

The Bronco is best for buyers who want V8 character, open-air driving, and real towing capacity in a two-door package. It trades away the efficiency and nimbleness of the Cherokee and 4Runner for power and size. Compared to the K5 Blazer below it, the Bronco offers slightly more power in its top engine and a similar removable top, but both suffer from heavy fuel consumption. Tidy original Broncos now command strong collector money.

4. Chevrolet K5 Blazer

The K5 Blazer ranks fourth because its iconic square-body styling and available 5.7-liter 350 V8 with 165 horsepower made it the quintessential American full-size SUV of the era. This body-on-frame 4x4 with a part-time NP208 transfer case and solid front axle was equally at home towing a boat or crawling a trail, backed by a removable rear top for open-air versatility.

The K5 Blazer is best for buyers who want classic American style, torquey V8 power, and easy parts availability in a two-door package. It trades away the Bronco's slightly higher top-end power for a more iconic look and broader support network. Compared to the Ford above it, the K5 offers similar towing and trail ability but feels more agricultural on pavement. Clean 350-powered K5s regularly clear $20,000 today, making it a blue-chip 1980s collectible.

5. Toyota Land Cruiser FJ60

The Land Cruiser FJ60 ranks fifth because its 4.2-liter 2F inline-six engine and heavy-duty drivetrain with front and rear solid axles made it the most durable and globally capable 4x4 of 1985. This four-door wagon with part-time 4WD and a low-range transfer case earned a legendary reputation for crossing deserts and outliving everything around it, backed by Toyota's overengineering.

The FJ60 is best for overlanders and collectors who value go-anywhere reliability and four-door practicality above all else. It trades away the V8 power and lower cost of the K5 Blazer for superior build quality and global parts support. Compared to the Chevrolet above it, the FJ60 is slower and thirstier but far more likely to survive extreme conditions. Its bulletproof reputation has made it a blue-chip classic with values still climbing.

6. Jeep Grand Wagoneer

The Grand Wagoneer ranks sixth because it pioneered the luxury SUV segment, wrapping leather, wood trim, and four full doors around genuine off-road hardware with Selec-Trac full-time 4WD. Its 5.9-liter 360 AMC V8 produced 144 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, providing adequate power for a vehicle that prioritized comfort over speed.

The Grand Wagoneer is best for buyers who want a luxurious, family-friendly 4x4 with iconic faux-wood styling and full-time four-wheel drive. It trades away the off-road focus and lower cost of the FJ60 for leather, wood, and a more refined ride. Compared to the Toyota above it, the Wagoneer is more comfortable and spacious but less durable and far thirstier. Clean examples are now genuine collectibles, bringing strong five-figure sums on the classic market.

7. Chevrolet Suburban

The Suburban ranks seventh because it was the original three-row hauler, offering unmatched cargo and passenger room in a K10 4WD package with a 5.7-liter 350 V8 producing around 165 horsepower. This body-on-frame SUV with a part-time transfer case and solid front axle could swallow a whole family plus gear while still pulling a trailer, making it the ultimate utility vehicle of its day.

The Suburban is best for large families who need maximum room and serious towing capacity in a single vehicle. It trades away the style and open-air appeal of the Grand Wagoneer for sheer practicality and utility. Compared to the Jeep above it, the Suburban offers far more cargo space and towing capability but feels more like a truck and less like a luxury vehicle. Clean K10 Suburbans have risen steadily in value on the collector market.

8. Ford Bronco II

The Bronco II ranks eighth because it offered compact Bronco style and genuine trail capability at a budget-friendly base MSRP of $10,200, making it an accessible entry point into 1980s 4x4 ownership. Its 2.8-liter Cologne V6 produced about 115 horsepower, driving through a part-time Touch-Drive 4WD system with a solid rear axle and independent front suspension.

The Bronco II is best for budget-conscious buyers who want a compact, maneuverable 4x4 with shared Ranger parts keeping upkeep simple. It trades away the power and presence of the Suburban for a smaller footprint and lower running costs. Compared to the Chevrolet above it, the Bronco II is far less capable for towing and hauling but much easier to park and daily drive.

9. Isuzu Trooper II

The Trooper II ranks ninth as our Best Value pick because its base MSRP of $8,922 made it the cheapest serious 4x4 in the 1985 showroom, backed by a simple 1.9- to 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine and a body-on-frame chassis with a solid rear axle. This boxy, upright SUV delivered honest off-road utility for hundreds less than any domestic or Toyota rival, punching far above its sticker on the trail.

The Trooper II is best for value hunters who want real 4x4 capability for the least money possible, without caring about style or speed. It trades away the power and comfort of the Bronco II for a lower price and simpler, tougher construction. Compared to the Ford above it, the Trooper II offers comparable off-road ability but feels more primitive on pavement. Survivors are now genuinely scarce, making it a quietly collectible piece of 1980s 4x4 history.

10. GMC Jimmy (S-15)

The S-15 Jimmy ranks tenth because it rounded out the compact SUV field with familiar GM mechanicals and a friendly footprint, offering a 2.8-liter V6 with around 115 horsepower through Insta-Trac part-time 4WD. This GMC twin of the Chevy S-10 Blazer was known for being one of the easier compacts to live with day to day, providing SUV practicality without full-size bulk or cost.

The S-15 Jimmy is best for buyers who want a sensible, capable compact 4x4 with shift-on-the-fly 4WD and easy maintenance. It trades away the Trooper II's lower price and simpler construction for a more refined ride and better parts availability. Compared to the Isuzu above it, the Jimmy offers similar capability but with a smoother, more car-like driving experience.

How we ranked these

We graded every contender as a period buyer would have, then layered in four decades of hindsight. The weighting: off-road capability 25%, durability 25%, value in period 15%, versatility 15%, character 10%, and collectibility now 10%. Sources spanned period road tests from Car and Driver, Road & Track, and Four Wheeler, plus modern valuation data from Hagerty, Bring a Trailer, Classic.com, and Wikipedia model histories. Real 1985 base MSRPs and engine specs were used throughout.

We deliberately ignored modern safety ratings, fuel economy standards, and infotainment—none existed in any meaningful form in 1985. We also excluded any vehicle not sold new in the US market, which eliminated the Range Rover Classic (arrived 1987) and the Suzuki Jimny. We did not penalize for lack of airbags or ABS, as those were not expected then. We focused on what a 1985 buyer could actually purchase and what has proven durable over four decades.

Related questions

What made the 1985 Jeep Cherokee XJ a landmark 4x4?

The XJ's unibody construction was a radical departure from the body-on-frame norm, making it lighter, tighter, and more efficient while retaining solid axles and genuine off-road capability. It launched the modern compact-SUV era and proved that a 4x4 could be car-like without sacrificing trail toughness, influencing every crossover that followed.

Why is the 1985 Toyota 4Runner so coveted?

1985 is the only year the 4Runner offered both the fuel-injected 22R-E engine and a solid front axle, a combination that gives it unmatched reliability and off-road credibility. This specific configuration has made it the most desirable first-generation 4Runner, with clean examples now trading well into five figures on the collector market.

What should you check when buying a 1985 K5 Blazer?

Rust is the primary concern—inspect rockers, floors, tailgate, and rear wheel wells. The 350 V8 is robust but check for leaks and overheating. Verify the NP208 transfer case shifts properly and the solid front axle has no excessive play. Original, unmodified examples command a premium, so avoid heavily modified trucks unless they are professionally done.

How does the 1985 Ford Bronco compare to the K5 Blazer?

Both are full-size, two-door, removable-top SUVs with V8 power, but the Bronco offered the optional 351 Windsor HO with 210 hp, more than the Blazer's 165 hp. The Bronco had Touch-Drive electric-shift 4WD, while the Blazer used a manual t-case. Both are collectible, but the Bronco's square-body styling has surged in value recently.

What is the best budget 4x4 from 1985?

The Isuzu Trooper II, starting at $8,922, was the cheapest serious 4x4 and our Best Value. It offered honest body-on-frame capability with a simple four-cylinder engine and part-time 4WD. While slow and basic, it was durable and space-efficient, making it a smart buy for budget-conscious off-roaders. Survivors are now scarce and gaining collector interest.

Why is the 1985 Land Cruiser FJ60 so expensive now?

The FJ60's legendary durability, global overlanding reputation, and four-door practicality have driven values up. Hagerty pegs good examples around $30,000, with low-mileage cars exceeding $50,000 on Bring a Trailer. Its indestructible 2F inline-six and solid axles make it a blue-chip classic, and demand continues to climb as enthusiasts seek go-anywhere reliability.

What are the pros and cons of the 1985 Grand Wagoneer?

Pros: leather-and-wood luxury, Selec-Trac full-time 4WD, four-door practicality, and iconic styling. Cons: high price when new ($21,365), thirsty 5.9-liter V8, and complex electrics that can be finicky. Clean examples are collectible, but maintenance costs can be high. It's a charming luxury 4x4 that predates the modern luxury SUV category.

Is the 1985 Suburban a good collector buy?

Yes, but it's less flashy than two-door SUVs. The K10 4WD with the 350 V8 offers unmatched room and towing. Values are rising as square-body demand spreads, but clean examples are still relatively affordable compared to Broncos and Blazers. Rust in rockers and rear floors is the main issue, so inspect carefully.

FAQ

What was the best overall 4x4 of 1985?

The Jeep Cherokee XJ won Best Overall with a base MSRP of $9,995. Its unibody design, Command-Trac 4WD, and solid axles delivered a blend of capability, efficiency, and value that nothing else matched. It launched the compact-SUV era and remains a landmark, with clean examples now appreciating in value.

What was the best value 4x4 of 1985?

The Isuzu Trooper II, starting at $8,922, was our Best Value. It provided honest body-on-frame utility with part-time 4WD and a simple four-cylinder engine for hundreds less than any domestic or Toyota rival. Its boxy, space-efficient design and durability made it a smart buy, though it was slow and basic.

Why is the 1985 Toyota 4Runner special?

It's the only year with both the fuel-injected 22R-E engine and a solid front axle, making it the most capable and reliable first-gen 4Runner. This combination has given it cult status, and values have climbed sharply. Clean SR5 examples now trade well into five figures, reflecting its desirability among collectors.

Which 1985 4x4 has appreciated the most?

The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ60 and the square-body Chevy K5 Blazer have seen the biggest appreciation. FJ60s now bring $30,000 to $50,000, while clean K5s regularly exceed $20,000. The Ford Bronco and Jeep Cherokee XJ have also risen, but the FJ60 and K5 lead the pack in percentage gains.

Did the Range Rover count as a 1985 US option?

No, the Range Rover Classic did not officially launch in the US until 1987. In 1985, American buyers chose among domestic models, Toyota, and Isuzu. The Range Rover's absence left a gap for luxury 4x4s, which the Jeep Grand Wagoneer filled with its leather and wood trim.

Are these 1985 SUVs reliable daily drivers today?

Many are, especially Toyotas and well-kept GM and Jeep models. However, they demand more maintenance, use more fuel, and feel slower than modern vehicles. Rust and aging electrical systems are common issues. With proper care, they can serve as dependable daily drivers, but expect more frequent repairs and lower fuel economy.

What should I look for when buying a 1985 SUV as a classic?

Rust is the number-one killer—check rockers, floors, cab corners, and unibody seams. On body-on-frame trucks, probe the frame rails and crossmembers. Verify the transfer case engages 4WD and low range. Original, unmodified trucks command the highest prices, so avoid heavily modified examples unless they are professionally done.

How does the 1985 Bronco II compare to the 4Runner?

The Bronco II was cheaper ($10,200) and had a smaller 2.8 V6 (115 hp) versus the 4Runner's 22R-E (116 hp). The 4Runner had a solid front axle, while the Bronco II had independent front suspension. The 4Runner is more reliable and collectible, but the Bronco II offers a budget-friendly entry into 1980s 4x4s.

What is the most reliable 1985 4x4?

The Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser FJ60 are the most reliable, thanks to the 22R-E and 2F engines, respectively. Both are known for crossing continents without complaint. The Jeep Cherokee XJ with the 2.5 four is also durable, but the early 2.8 V6 is less so. Toyota's build quality is unmatched.

What is the rarest 1985 4x4 on this list?

The Isuzu Trooper II is the rarest, as survivors are genuinely scarce. It was a budget model, so many were used hard and not preserved. The GMC S-15 Jimmy is also uncommon, but the Trooper II's low original sales and high attrition make it the hardest to find in clean condition today.

Sources

• https://www.hagerty.com/media/buying-and-selling/your-handy-1984-2001-jeep-cherokee-xj-buyers-guide/
• https://www.hagerty.com/valuation-tools/toyota/land-cruiser/fj60
• https://www.hagerty.com/media/market-trends/1981-89-toyota-fj60-values-are-spiking/
• https://www.hagerty.com/valuation-tools/jeep/grand-wagoneer
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeep_Cherokee_(XJ)
• https://www.jdpower.com/cars/1985/toyota/4runner
• https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/1985-Isuzu-Trooper-II-Overview-c27995
• https://www.automobile-catalog.com/car/1985/155510/ford_bronco.html

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