Quick driving tips to save on fuel in a 4x4 vehicle.

1. If your 4x4 has a low-range option, this should be selected only in difficult conditions where maximum power and torque are called for. Low-range can be used at speeds of up to 30 km/h off-road. To get the best fuel consumption in this situation, use the highest gear possible to negotiate the route—this will bring the revs down, giving you better consumption while still staying in the power band.
   
   

2. Using the air-conditioner while driving in slow, off-road conditions will have a significant effect on fuel consumption—and it might drain a bit of power from the engine. This would be felt mostly in small-capacity engines.
   

3. Tyre pressure plays a major role in fuel consumption and drivers should pay particular attention to ensuring the pressures are correct for the work the vehicle is doing. The softer the tyres, the higher the rolling resistance and that can affect the consumption significantly.

4. Add-ons such as winches and bull bars, or roll bars, all affect fuel consumption as they add mass to the vehicle, and affect the aerodynamics by increasing the wind resistance—and do remember that every kilogram of weight you add to your 4x4 reduces the load capacity by that amount.
   
   

5. Your loading capacity has to include all accessories, including the weight of the bigger tyres than those originally specified, plus the weight of the fuel, water, your equipment, and the passengers. It is illegal to overload your vehicle and it could cause you problems in the case of an insurance claim.