[davidbanham]

Actually independent wheel braking as part of an electronic traction control system is pretty common and _can be_ excellent. The Land Rover Discovery looks to have gotten a bit soft in the latest iteration, but they've used that system for years. Coupled with the coil suspension all round with good articulation, they're well regarded off road. Not long-term durable on high speed rough roads, mind you, but brilliant at climbing a snotty hill.

For serious or regular off road work, a mechanical locking diff is the way to go. Yes, most electronic systems will completely freak out and stop you going anywhere in soft sand until you remember to turn them off. They do have their place though.