The best 4x4 ever made is the Merc Unimog. It is literally unstoppable. On a more realistic level, the best 4x4 ever made for day-to-day use is the LR Defender 90. I run both, plus 2 x Td5 Discos, a Mitsu L200 (a big horrible barge) and a variety of ATVs. Living and working in farming, I have owned and driven most 4x4s, and Land Rover reigns supreme if you need actual off-road ability.
Anything with optional 4x4 or leaf-spring suspension is inferior, in my opinion.