A big number of people are enthusiasts of off-road vehicles because of its many uses, versatility, and to some, the social status it represents. Off-road vehicles are any type of vehicle that usually has higher traction and higher clearance and capable of driving on and off roads. It generally has large tires, flexible suspensions, or even caterpillar tracks. The most common use of off-road vehicles is for areas without pavement such as in sight seeing activities, trails and forest roads.
Common commercial off-road vehicles include pickup trucks and light trucks with station wagon-like bodies. Examples are Mitsubishi Pajero, Chevrolet Blazer, Land Rover Defender, Range Rover, and Toyota Land Cruiser. A number of off-road vehicles are also luxury SUVs but with reduced off-road capability.

Most off-road vehicles are four-wheel drive vehicles which allow them to manually switch between two-wheel mode for pavements and four-wheel mode for low traction conditions. This ability to switch from two different modes and lock differentials distinguishes 4WD from AWD (All-wheel drive) vehicles. However, other examples of off-road vehicles include dirt bikes, dune buggies and sandrails.
Military vehicles such as the Jeep CJ and the AM General Hummer have also been converted for commercial use and civilian specifications.

4WD and off road vehicles have a great number of enthusiasts because of its many uses and versatility. In fact, many types of motorsports have been established that involves racing 4WD and off road vehicles. Competitions include rally, desert racing, and rock crawling which are considered to be the three largest sports for 4WD vehicles. On the other hand, All Terrain Vehicles and motorcycle competitions include Motocross, Enduro and also desert racing such as Dakar Rallye and Baja 1000.
Since most 4WD and off road vehicles are built with higher ground clearance and have a higher centre of gravity, the risk of a rollover is higher than ordinary passenger cars.

4WD and off road vehicles have also been criticized for the impact of illegal trail and off-trail activities on natural vegetation and wildlife. Erosion and habitat loss are known to have been caused by the drivers testing their vehicles against natural obstacles. The illegal use of 4WD and off road vehicles is an environmental and land management problem that is being addressed by governments. To support acts of maintaining the environment, many organisations encourage only the use appropriate trail ethics.
The Australian National Four-Wheel Drive Council is the peak recreational 4WD organisation in Australia and its membership is comprised of all 4WD associations in each State and the Northern Territory.

Four-drive advice and tips

• Replace all worn parts on your vehicle before you set out on a trip and have it checked by an expert 4WD repairer for a safe and enjoyable trip.
• Bring a UHF radio to contact other people for information and assistance if needed.
• Carry as little as possible on your roof rack; use a heavy duty alloy to take light but bulky items.
• Carry a first aid kit and learn how to use it in case of emergencies.

Bring a tool kit to help you with minor repairs and maintenance.