Do you know why road trips are so popular? The answer is because you can plan them for any time of the year. You also have control over all your activities without inconveniencing other people.
With the right destination, there are so many sites and activities to take part in. And best of all, it is a fun activity for family or even friends.
So, if you are planning for one, read on for a recommendation of some of the best cars to consider. Let’s dive into our list.
1. Toyota Prius
Toyota has built a reputation for dependable cars. Consider getting your vehicles from an authorized Toyota car dealership. You get a wide range of options. The vehicles are low maintenance, fuel-friendly, and parts are plentiful. The dealer will also advise on the best type depending on your requirements.
Toyota Prius has some fantastic features including:-
- 58 mpg on the Eco model
- 5 seater capacity
- Engine capacity 1798 cc
- Automatic transmission.
- Sufficient cargo capacity
- Tons of entertainment options
- Range of models available including the standard hybrid
The selling point for the Toyota Prius is fuel economy. Opting for the plug-in Prime models means you can use electricity as well without having to stop for battery charging.
Do not let the compact size of the vehicle fool you. You will be surprised at how spacious and roomy the interior feels.
2. Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander also makes it to our list of the best cars for road trips. It features:
- 8 seater capacity
- The EPA stands at 35mpg on the highway.
- Two electric motors.
- Engine capacity is 3.5 L.
- A four-cylinder engine with a horsepower output of 243 Cargo space of 84.30 cubic feet with back seats folded out of the way.
Infotainment options come as standard features. They include Android Auto, Apple car play, and Alexa. Connectivity features include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and 5 USB ports.
You will love the quick acceleration due to the continuous variable automatic transmission (CVT). The Highlander is excellent if you need to tow a boat.
Don’t worry about sleeping accommodation while on the road. You can also haul a sleeping trailer along. It is strong enough to pull over 3,500 pounds.
3. Honda Odyssey
- Mpg ranging from 19-28
- Eight seater capacity
- 280 horsepower and 10-speed automatic transmission
- 3.5 liter, V6 engine
- Towing capacity 3500 lbs.
Space and luxury for your road trip will be complete with a Honda Odyssey. Infotainment and connectivity include Bluetooth, a 5-inch screen, a 7 speaker stereo, and two USB ports. Newer models have a Wi-Fi hotspot and additional USB ports. It also has other features like cabin control, CabinTalk, and CarbonWatch.
Traveling with kids can be messy. You spend a bit of time cleaning up every time you get a chance to stop. Honda thoughtfully threw in an inbuilt vacuum. The handy tool may, however, not be available in the newer models starting 2022 due to supplier issues.
4. Land Rover Defender
Land Rover Defender is one of the old schoolers. It is a tough car that does not have the frills of newer models. So, if you are addicted to technology and gadgets, this may not be the best option for you.
But if you love off-road trips like safaris or mountain explorations, this is the beast you want to be in.
Features based on the 2018 model include:-
- 7 seater capacity
- 5-liter V8 engine
- 8 speed ZF automatic transmission allowing 0-60 mph acceleration in 5.6 seconds. It will achieve a top speed of 106 mph.
- An all-terrain tire that can handle sand, jungle, and icy environments
Do note, the company launched the 2018 model to celebrate its 70tth anniversary. It is the fastest and most powerful in the Land Rover range of vehicles.
Unfortunately, you may not find it in the showrooms as it was a collector’s edition. But, if you manage to get one, it is a top contender for one of the best cars for road trips.
5. Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler is another excellent option for off-roaders. You get different engine options with the 2021 models. It allows you to choose the best one, depending on what you need.
These are the 375 plug-in hybrid horsepower. The other option is the 260. The two are the best options if you want to save on the money you spend on fuel.
Other noteworthy features include:-
- MPG range of 20-24
- 5 seater capacity
- Engine capacity 3.6-liter V6 engine
- 260-470 horsepower
- 72.4 Cubic feet of storage. Additional storage is available in the Trunk floor lockbox.
- Connectivity points include a USB port and Bluetooth
Infotainment includes a speaker Audio Systems and a 5-inch touchscreen. You also get Android Auto and Apple CarPlay depending on the model you go for.
The Jeep Wrangler has lots of other exciting features. Such include 4-wheel drive, front and rear differentials, and a sway bar. The 2020 edition has adaptive cruise control, parking assistance, and forward collision prevention.
The interior material is waterproof and stain-proof. So, even if you’re traveling with the little kids, you don’t have to worry about the hard-to-clean messes. The integrated navigation feature will also help you find places easily.
But if you are going for rugged off-road escapades, you may want to consider the Land Rover Defender. The wrangler does not offer the smoothest of rides on all terrains.
Final Thoughts
The car you choose for your road trip can make or break your vacation. When deciding, look at factors like fuel economy to save on money.
Ensure there is sufficient space depending on how many people will be coming along for the trip. You also want enough storage capacity so that the passengers do not sit with their bags on their laps.
Check the engine size to know how much you will spend on fuel. The car should also be powerful enough to navigate the different terrains.
Make sure you get your vehicle from authorized car dealerships. They have the best deals and vehicles that are in excellent condition. You want to avoid having to deal with car complications while on the road.