If you’re interested in finding the best road trip car for your next escapade, then this article is for you! When the open road calls, it’s essential to have the perfect vehicle that’s up for the challenge. In this blog post, we’ll be exploring the top 10 road trip cars for every type of wanderer.
From spacious family cruisers to rugged off-roaders and stylish roadsters, we’ve got you covered. Your dream car awaits as we dive into the nitty-gritty details of each vehicle, and discover what makes them stand out from the rest. So, without further ado, let’s hit the road and see which cars are deserving of the best road trip car title!
Stay tuned as we consider factors such as comfort, fuel efficiency, cargo space, and more, to ensure you embark on your adventures fully prepared. Grab your map, pack your bags, and let’s hit the open road together, as we take you on a virtual ride through our top picks for the ultimate road trip experience.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Road Trip Car
When it comes to choosing a good road trip car, there’s more to it than just range, comfort, and cargo space. You’ll also want to consider some hidden gems that’ll make your adventure even better. We’re gonna dive into seven key factors to think about before getting your dream road trip ride.
Range
The range is essential for the best road trip car. You don’t want to be stopping for gas every hour; you want to drive long distances and enjoy the open road! Make sure your car has several hundred miles of autonomy between fill-ups.
This becomes even more critical for electric vehicles since there are way more gas stations than EV chargers. Check out an EV’s range and the available charging network to keep cruising smoothly.
Comfort
No good road trip car is complete without top-notch comfort. You and your passengers will spend hours in the car, so it’s gotta be cosy.
Look for seats with excellent construction and upholstery, adjustability, and maybe even heating, cooling, or massage functions. Don’t forget about dual climate control and solid soundproofing for those long-distance drives.
Amenities
Now, let’s talk amenities! The best road trip car should have extra features to make your journey even more enjoyable. We’re talking touchscreen infotainment systems, sunroofs, web browsers, and connectivity to streaming services.
And let’s not forget advanced driver assists like forward collision warning, lane keep assist, blindspot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Some brands, like Tesla, go above and beyond with goodies like “Karaoke”, HEPA filtration systems, and their cutting-edge autopilot system.
Storage
When planning a road trip, it’s crucial to find the right road trip car with ample storage. You’ll need plenty of space for all your belongings and stuff to do on a road trip.
That’s why it’s essential to consider a vehicle’s cargo capacity – the more spacious the ride, the more room you’ll have to stash your bags and gear. Of course, you can always add a roof rack or rooftop cargo box, but keep in mind this might be less convenient and could affect your fuel or battery consumption.
Don’t forget to factor in seating capacity and the amount of cargo space per passenger, as well as backseat legroom when evaluating this aspect.
Reliability & Service Intervals
Sure, most new cars nowadays are super reliable and can serve as fantastic cars for a trip. However, some models have a stronger reputation for dependability. If you’re planning on using your car for extensive road-tripping, it’s wise to investigate its required service intervals, as these can vary greatly.
And hey, whether you’re using the car for daily commuting, road trips, or even motorcycles, don’t forget to check if there have been any recalls for that model.
Manufacturer & Dealer Support
Now, when you’re hitting the road, you’ll want to know not just how often your road trip car needs servicing, but also where you can get it serviced.
Some brands have a more extensive dealership and support network, which can be a lifesaver if you need a part repaired or replaced during your journey. Don’t overlook aspects like roadside assistance either.
Remember, it’s much easier to find a replacement part for a common car like a BMW than for a rarer, more exotic model like a Bentley or Aston Martin.
Drivetrain & Performance
Commuting is all about getting from point A to point B, but road-tripping is about savouring the journey and embracing the open road. That’s why it’s important to have a car that delivers a thrilling driving experience.
Be sure to examine a model’s engine, aspiration type, displacement, horsepower, torque, 0-60mph times, and top speeds. A car’s suspension is also critical, as it directly affects handling and ride smoothness. Some vehicles even offer adjustable air ride suspension setups, perfect for fun canyon runs or silky-smooth highway cruising.
The 10 Best Road Trip Cars for 2023
Top #10: Chevrolet Suburban
Summer road trips – whether they’re mini road trips or the full-on cross-country car trip of a lifetime, they’re the stuff of legends! I can imagine you’ve got an epic journey ahead, taking your family and furry friend across the USA before your kids embark on their college adventures.
The ideal trip car for this unforgettable experience has got to be the Chevrolet Suburban (or its sibling, the GMC Yukon XL).
Picture this: you’re cruising down the highway with eight passengers, everyone comfy as can be while towing a whopping 7,800 pounds behind you. If you need to haul an even larger travel trailer, it’s time to check out full-size pickups with a fifth-wheel setup. But the Suburban’s real charm lies in its colossal cargo capacity.
With just the second-row seats occupied, fold up that rear seat to unlock 76.7 cubic feet of space – roomy enough to snag an armoire as a souvenir on your car trip! And with all the seats stashed away, you’ve got 121 cubic feet of space, practically transforming this beast into a pickup truck.
Now, let’s talk about how the Suburban performs on the open road. It’s all about comfort and capability, regardless of the engine option you pick. For long-haul adventures or mini road trips, I’d say the 3.0-litre turbodiesel is a solid choice, delivering 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway with 4WD.
But if you’re craving more power, the trip car also offers 5.3-litre and 6.2-litre gas-powered V8 engines, pumping out up to 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Whichever you choose, you’ll be cruisin’ in style!
Top #9: 2023 Ford Mustang Convertible
When it comes to reliving the good ol’ days and hitting the open road with your special someone, there’s no better choice than the iconic Mustang Convertible to make those cross-country adventures truly unforgettable.
Sure, the GT Convertible might be everyone’s dream ride, but its hefty price tag of nearly $11,000 extra for a V8 can be hard to swallow. Instead, consider the EcoBoost Premium for $37,9955, which packs a punch with its 2.3-litre EcoBoost turbocharged inline four-cylinder and a slick six-speed manual transmission.
While the “High Performance” upgrade can push the horsepower from 310 to 330, it also adds a whopping $6,150 to the cost. In that case, you might as well grab the GT! So, it’s best to stick with the base model and enjoy its standard power and torque as you explore the scenic highways and charming byways of this great nation.
When it comes to tech, the EcoBoost Premium’s got you covered with Sync3, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, voice commands, and Bluetooth features to keep you connected while your eyes stay glued to the open road.
And let’s not forget the standard Premium preferred equipment package, which treats you to ActiveX heated and cooled front seats, heated mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators, and selectable drive modes for those moments when you want to kick things up a notch. With all these goodies, you’ll be cruising in comfort and style, my friend!
Top #8: 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E
With a minimum range of 260 miles and an optional range extender that bumps it up to 312 miles, the Ford Mustang Mach-E is your go-to electric road trip companion—even for cross-country adventures.
The Mustang Mach-E shines as a road trip warrior, thanks to its driving experience. Like all electric cars, it can run in complete silence. If you’re a fan of some sweet “exhaust” sounds, you can have ’em piped through the audio system.
But once you hear how hushed the Mach-E is, you’ll realize just how loud traditional combustion engines can be after hours on the road.
Packin’ your gear? No problem! The Mach-E boasts a solid cargo volume. With all the seats up, you get 29.7 cubic feet of space, and when you fold the rear seats down, it expands to a roomy 59.7 cubic feet.
You can easily fit luggage for a week-long trip for four and still have comfy seating for your backseat passengers.
The big question for EVs on road trips is, of course, charging. That’s where the Mach-E’s extended range shines. With 312 miles on a full charge, you could cruise from Boston to New York City with juice to spare.
The BlueOval Charge Network is the largest manufacturer-backed network in the US, sporting over 19,500 charging stations, including speedy DC Fast Chargers.
When you roll up to a DC Fast Charging station with your rear-wheel drive (RWD) Mustang Mach-E equipped with the extended range battery, you can add a whopping 59 miles of range in just 10 minutes. In 45 minutes, you can boost your charge from 10% to 80% using the same Level 3 charger.
Ford’s got you covered with their Power My Trip feature on the FordPass app. It lets you map out your journey and schedule charging stops along the way, making your electrifying road trip a breeze.
Top #7: Hyundai Santa Cruz
The crossover/pickup fusion is fast becoming the go-to choice for countless Americans. Sure, Honda’s been offering the Ridgeline for a while, but it’s always been too pricey for younger folks. Now, the Santa Cruz and Ford Maverick are revving up this once-dormant vehicle category (remember Subaru’s short-lived Baja?).
Cruisin’ with the Santa Cruz for a week was a total eye-opener. Yeah, the bed’s on the smaller side, but it packs a punch when you start using it.
As for towing, you’re looking at a range of 3,500 to 5,000 pounds, maxing out Hyundai’s current towing capabilities. Perfect for a pair of jet skis or a compact travel trailer, but if you’re dreaming of hitching up a 27-foot Airstream, you’ll want something with a bit more muscle.
When it comes to fuel economy, only the hybrid Ford Maverick (which we haven’t tested yet) takes the lead. The Santa Cruz’s all-wheel-drive version gets 27 mpg on the highway and 21 mpg in the city.
Sure, it’s no match for the hybrid Maverick’s 50 mpg combined, but it still outperforms every other gas-powered midsize and full-size pickup by at least 1 mpg – and that’s comparing the Santa Cruz’s AWD to the rear-drive Ford Ranger.
And let’s not forget the sweet range of accessories available for the Santa Cruz, designed to maximize that bed space. We’re talking racks for rooftop tents, bike carriers, kayak mounts – you name it. This ride’s ready for some serious adventure!
Top #6: Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4xe
The two-door Wrangler sure is a blast, but if you’re looking for the most versatile trim, the four-door Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4xe is the way to go.
Breaking down that impressive name gives us a glimpse of what makes this vehicle stand out. The “Unlimited” refers to the upgrade from the two-door Wrangler, adding a second pair of doors and bumping up the cargo space to a roomy 27.7 cubic feet.
The two-door version has a mere 12.9 cubic feet with the seats up, just enough for a couple of days’ worth of gear. A roof rack is a must if you opt for the two-door.
The “Rubicon” in the name tells us that this trim is the ultimate off-road warrior. Sure, all Wranglers can tackle rocky terrain and muddy bogs better than most vehicles, but the Rubicon boasts exclusive features you won’t find elsewhere.
With push-button sway bar disconnects, lockers, and Dana 44 axles front and rear, this beast is more than just a pretty face.
Now, let’s talk about the “4xe.” Pronounced “four-by-e,” it means this Wrangler comes equipped with the same plug-in hybrid tech as the Chrysler Pacifica, but with the added bonus of an all-electric mode controlled by a dash-mounted switch. This baby can run in low range, using only the electric motor’s massive torque, all while staying whisper-quiet.
On the road and around town, you can travel up to 20 miles on electric power, making your local errands a breeze without ever stopping for gas.
Top #5: Kia Carnival
Say hello to the Kia Carnival, a fresh face in the vast minivan scene. Although it doesn’t come with all-wheel drive or hybrid tech just yet, it more than makes up for it with its ultra-comfy interior, which is seriously the finest in any minivan today.
Opt for the SX Prestige trim, and you’ll be rewarded with second-row seats that are the real VIPs – they fully recline with leg support! Plus, the interior colour options are a treat, especially the daring “Tuscan Lumber” orange upholstery.
What sets the Kia Carnival apart from most three-row SUVs is the generous space in its third row. We’re talking 38.6 inches of headroom and 35.6 inches of legroom, with a seat back that doesn’t force you to sit ramrod straight like you’re in a church pew.
That’s even more headroom than a Chevrolet Suburban and only an inch shy of its legroom!
While passenger comfort is a priority, let’s not forget Carnival’s cool factor. It’s the only minivan out there that’s got some serious swagger. Kia’s design team really went the extra mile to create a premium minivan with a sleek look, both inside and out.
You’ll find details on the Carnival’s exterior that you won’t see on any other minivan, and even some crossover SUVs are left in the dust.
Top #4: Kia Telluride
The Kia Telluride has been turning heads with its incredible value, even selling at or above its MSRP before the pandemic-induced chip shortage. Believe it or not, it’s one of the few vehicles in recent memory that could genuinely be called “underpriced.”
It’s no surprise that it’s been ranking high on everybody’s list. The 2023 model brings in the new X-Line trim, emphasizing the Telluride’s updated style, while the X-Pro trim adds a touch of off-road prowess.
With the Kia Telluride, up to seven passengers can travel in luxury, something that used to be exclusive to the Chevrolet Suburban/Lincoln Navigator class. The new Jeep Wagoneer is another fantastic option for those long journeys, but keep in mind that its MSRP starts at nearly double the price of the Telluride.
Whichever Telluride trim you choose, you’ll be getting the same powerhouse: a 291-hp V6 engine that’s featured in many of Hyundai and Kia’s larger vehicles. This beauty of an engine ensures that you won’t feel any lack of power unless you’re towing at max capacity.
The fuel efficiency is quite impressive too, with 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway for the front-wheel-drive version. Opting for an all-wheel drive does lower those numbers to 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.
As for seating, the Telluride rivals even the most luxurious SUVs out there, starting with synthetic leather in lower trims and transitioning to genuine leather in the higher ones.
The Telluride is jam-packed with cutting-edge tech, only missing out on the innovative passenger-side screen found in the Jeep Wagoneer. You’ll find a head-up display, an eight-inch touchscreen, USB ports for all outboard passengers, and the cool Kia Connect app.
Top #3: Subaru BRZ
Ever since the BMW M Coupe and Z3 Coupe waved goodbye, the BRZ has stepped up as the spiritual successor to those iconic grand tourers (GTs) from the ’60s and early ’70s. Think of those beauties like the Triumph Spitfire, the MG MGB GT, and the Alfa Romeo Alfetta – pure automotive art!
These classics had one mission: to whisk you and your special someone off to the mountains for an unforgettable adventure. The Spitfire and MGB-GT were crafted for two, while the Alfetta squeezed in a tiny rear seat perfect for your furry companions – but definitely not for fellow humans.
The cargo space was tailor-made for your weekend getaway essentials.
The BRZ nails that formula, and its recent revamp made it even better. Born from the collaboration between Subaru and Toyota, the BRZ combines Toyota’s chassis expertise with Subaru’s drivetrain prowess.
It’s the only oddball in Subaru’s lineup: the sole RWD and non-AWD offering. Opt for the six-speed manual for a more authentic experience, or go with the six-speed automatic – a proper gearbox, not the CVT found in other 2023 Subarus.
The BRZ Premium, the base trim, is loaded with goodies: a 228-hp boxer four-cylinder, a Torsen limited-slip differential (which would set you back extra on the Mazda Miata), and Subaru Starlink Multimedia Navigation featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Limited trim, just $2,500 more, throws in Leather and Ultrasuede trim, 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4s, and heated seats – all that for under $31,000! Subaru has a smorgasbord of accessories, but the only true option is the automatic transmission.
If your life stage allows for a no-kids or empty-nester situation, it’s hard to find a more thrilling ride at this price point. The BRZ is a dream come true for anyone craving a taste of that classic GT sports car experience.
Top #2: Subaru Outback Wilderness
Ever since its debut in 1996, the base-level Outback has been the go-to adventure tourer for many. This beauty combines the nimbleness and fuel efficiency of a sedan with the cargo space of an early crossover SUV, giving countless Americans the pleasure of comfortable journeys all these years.
The 2022 model year brought us the remarkable Subaru Outback Wilderness trim level. To be honest, we initially thought it would be just another trim with some fancy decals and tires that didn’t really set it apart from other Outback variants.
Boy, were we wrong! The Outback Wilderness has mechanical differences that make it more suitable for all-around touring, particularly if you plan on tackling some light off-roading along the way.
Sure, you could explore the aftermarket for a lift kit that offers the ground clearance and approach and departure angles of the Outback Wilderness. But remember, those kits won’t be backed by a new Subaru warranty, and they can’t match the other mechanical perks of the Outback Wilderness.
For starters, this trim has a numerically lower final drive ratio, which trades a bit of highway fuel economy for better off-road torque utilization and a snappier throttle response. Plus, Subaru has fine-tuned its EyeSight suite of advanced safety features specifically for the Outback Wilderness.
Planning to bring a rooftop tent on your road trip? The Wilderness is the only Outback trim that sports a roof rack designed for a whopping 700-pound static load – perfect for a tent and its occupants. So, if you’re looking to camp out under the stars in style, the Wilderness has got you covered!
Top #1: Volvo V90
Volvo may continue to label it as the V90 Cross Country, but they’ve significantly toned down the bodyside cladding and off-road wheels and tires in recent times. The result? This large vehicle has morphed into one of the most elegant station wagons you’ll find cruising the roads of the United States today.
The V90 Cross Country’s sole powertrain offering is nothing short of impressive. It features a 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine, equipped with a turbo, a supercharger, and a mild-hybrid 48-volt system, complete with a 13-hp Integrated Starter Generator motor.
This high-tech combo ensures that this cargo-swallowing beast (up to 69 cubic feet) can still deliver a respectable 29 mpg on the highway.
Let’s talk about the interior – it’s nothing short of fantastic. Sporting a classy, uncluttered design, you won’t mistake it for anything else in its class. The Blond upholstery paired with Linear Walnut accents is downright museum-worthy. The only thing that could use a little refresh is the infotainment screen, which has been around for quite some time.
It does have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, but unlike many competitors in (and even below) its price range, you’ll need to plug it in.
With all that said, the V90 Cross Country is truly a one-of-a-kind gem in today’s market. Sure, there are a few other wagons from the likes of Mercedes-Benz and Audi, but this Volvo is the one that truly nails the aesthetic. Plus, it boasts a towing capacity that rivals a midsize SUV. Talk about versatility!
Reminders for a Memorable, Safe, and Comfortable Long Road Trip Best
Smart Snacking: Grocery Stores Over Gas Stations
A road trip ain’t complete without some munchies, am I right? But hold up, don’t go splurging at every gas station you stop at. Save your hard-earned dough by grabbing snacks at grocery stores or wholesale clubs.
You’ll score heaps of treats, drinks, and even coffee for a fraction of the cost. The more you save, the more miles you can conquer!
Check Out Your Ride Before Hitting the Road
Nobody wants car trouble on their adventure, so play it safe and get your wheels inspected before you roll out. Many auto repair shops offer free inspections (hoping they find something to fix, of course).
It’s a great chance to top off your fluids, rotate and balances those tires, and give your car the once-over before the journey begins. Trust me, you don’t want to be stuck at a sketchy motel waiting for repairs.
Keep Your Ride in Tip-Top Shape
Did ya know that keeping your tires inflated properly can improve your gas mileage? Underinflated tires can cause a drop of 0.2% miles per gallon for every 1 PSI of all tires. Might not seem like much, but on a long road trip, it adds up.
Don’t forget to keep an eye on your radiator, brake, and engine oil fluids, too. Swap out any dead headlights or taillights, and if you’re on a real long haul, remember those oil changes and tire rotations.
Pace Yourself With Daily Mileage Goals
Road trips are all about enjoying the ride, not just racing to the finish line. Driving 500 miles per day on highways or two-lane roads can be a real drag. Make time for roadside attractions, a hike in a state park, or a detour.
The whole point is to savour the journey! Set a daily mileage limit to give yourself time to soak up all the amazing sights and experiences.
Dodge Traffic and Mealtime Madness
Stuck in traffic or waiting for grub can be a real time-suck on your adventure. To keep your trip smooth, avoid rush hour and peak dinner times. Have breakfast after 9 a.m., lunch around 2 p.m., and dinner either early at 4 p.m. or later at 7 p.m.
Trust me, you’ll get seated and served faster. Also, steer clear of rush hours (7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m.) while cruising around. A navigation app or GPS device with traffic info can be a lifesaver, helping you dodge traffic jams and detours.
Avoid Small-Town Travel on Sundays and Mondays
Small towns are charming, but visiting them on Sundays and Mondays may not be the best idea as most of the local businesses will be closed.
Owners often work in their businesses and want a couple of days off each week, with Sundays and Mondays being the most common days for closures.
Instead, consider spending the night in state or national parks, driving scenic routes, or just taking a couple of days to relax.
Pack Everything – Including the Kitchen Sink
Prepare for the worst and pack everything you can possibly fit into your vehicle for a long road trip. Think about things you enjoy doing that you might want to do along the way and pack accordingly.
Although it’s impossible to prepare for every eventuality, packing extra items helps save money in the budget.
Fill the Gas Tank on Monday
If you want to save some cash on gas, fill up on Mondays as it’s the cheapest day of the week to get gas on average. Avoid getting gas on Friday or the day before a major holiday when gas prices tend to spike first thing in the morning.
Don’t Rely on Cellular Service
Prepare for the possibility of losing cellular service during your long road trip by downloading Google Maps for offline use and downloading movies for entertainment. Doing as much of this as possible while connected to Wi-Fi will prevent you from breaching a monthly data limit.
Plan to Do Laundry on the Road
Rather than packing five suitcases stuffed with every stitch of clothing you own, consider doing laundry somewhere along the way. Pack at least five of each type of clothing and bring a laundry bag.
When you decide to do laundry, be sure to take enough quarters to complete your load, never leave your laundry unattended, and always use a laundromat during daylight hours.
Get Organized
Organizing all your clothing, gear, food, and accessories is a crucial and often overlooked aspect of any long road trip.
Use stuff sacks or gallon-sized Ziplock bags to organize smaller items, midsized duffel bags or plastic totes for organizing smaller bags, and stackable totes that can lock together for keeping totes from sliding around in the vehicle.
Label everything and always leave the most frequently used items on top.
Get Plenty of Sleep
Getting plenty of sleep is important to maintaining your mental and physical health, not to mention keeping morale high. On a long road trip, plan to take one or two days a week off from travel.
Find a nice roadside motel, splurge on a super nice hotel with a free hot breakfast, or settle into a campground for two nights. Avoid the temptation to go out and explore the area – just focus on rest.
Keep the Car Clean (Inside and Out)
Start your road trip with a squeaky-clean vehicle by getting it washed and vacuumed. On long road trips, it may be necessary to do a little cleaning along the way. Instead of relying on car wash vacuum cleaners – or paying for them – consider buying a portable car vacuum cleaner.
Don’t Fill Up the Car Entirely
I know you want to pack everything you might need but trust me, you’ll want to make room for souvenirs. While small items are easy to pack, you may find yourself in love with larger items like artwork or glassware.
Ask retailers if they offer shipping, which is often included in areas with high tourism.
Bring Your Favorites
Why not make your car feel more like home? Bring your favourite items along, like a cosy blanket or your favourite coffee mug. Feeling comfortable on a long road trip is key to staying relaxed.
Beware of High Temperatures
Summer months can see internal car temperatures 30-40 degrees higher than the outside. High heat can ruin everything from coolers to electronics, and even prescription medication. Use a windshield sunshade, close the moonroof, and consider curtains for side windows to reduce internal temperatures.
Travel by Day
While some people choose to drive at night to avoid traffic, it’s much safer to travel during daylight hours. It’s easier to stay aware of the unfamiliar road ahead and get roadside assistance faster during normal business hours.
Choose the Best Route
The most scenic and exciting road trip routes are often just simple country roads. Avoid interstate highways and ask locals for the best routes. National scenic byways are also an excellent start.
Hitting the Road With Your Perfect Road Trip Car
Finding the best road trip car for your adventures is essential for an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a family seeking comfort and space, an off-road lover craving rugged capabilities, or a solo traveller desiring a stylish and fun-to-drive roadster, there’s a perfect ride waiting just for you. So, hop in and let the good times roll!
Our top 10 picks showcase the versatility of options available for road trip enthusiasts. Remember that each car offers its unique set of features, so it’s essential to consider factors like comfort, fuel efficiency, cargo space, and safety when making your decision. With the right car, your journey is bound to be one for the books.
So, pack your bags, plan your route, and hit the road with confidence, knowing you’ve chosen the best road trip car for your needs. May your travels be filled with laughter, memories, and countless miles of pure driving pleasure. Happy road-tripping, my friends!
