Planning a road trip can be exciting, but choosing the right vehicle is key.
The right SUV can make your journey more enjoyable and comfortable.
This article explores the best options that fit your needs and enhance your travel experience. Get ready to discover your ideal road trip companion.
1) Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is a great choice for road trips. It has plenty of space for passengers and luggage. With three rows of seats, it can fit up to eight people.
This SUV offers a smooth ride and good fuel efficiency. You can choose between a gasoline engine and a hybrid model. Both options save you money on gas.
The Highlander is also packed with safety features. It includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These tools help keep you and your family safe on the road.
You will enjoy the tech features too. The infotainment system is easy to use. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it simple to connect your devices.
Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot is a great choice for road trips. It has plenty of space for passengers and luggage. You can comfortably fit up to eight people.
The Pilot offers a smooth ride, which is important for long drives. Its fuel efficiency is also decent for an SUV, helping you save money on gas.
Inside, you’ll find a user-friendly touchscreen and a good sound system. These features keep you entertained and connected during your journey.
The safety ratings for the Honda Pilot are high, giving you peace of mind on the road. With features like lane-keeping assist, it helps keep you safe.
Overall, the Honda Pilot is a reliable SUV for any road trip. It combines comfort, space, and safety to make your travels enjoyable.
3) Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is a spacious SUV that’s great for road trips. It seats up to seven people, making it ideal for families or groups.
You can pack plenty of gear in its large cargo area. With different seating configurations, you can adjust space for passengers or luggage as needed.
The Explorer offers comfortable seating and a smooth ride. It has advanced tech features, like a large touchscreen for easy access to navigation and music.
You’ll feel safe on the road, too. The Explorer includes many safety features to help keep you and your passengers protected. If you want a reliable SUV for your trips, the Ford Explorer is a strong choice.
4) Chevrolet Tahoe
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a strong choice for road trips. It offers plenty of space for passengers and luggage. You can fit up to nine people, which is great for families or groups.
The Tahoe has a powerful engine, making it easy to drive on highways. Its towing capacity is impressive too. You can bring along outdoor gear or a small trailer.
Inside, the Tahoe is comfortable. You’ll find high-quality materials and plenty of technology features. The infotainment system is user-friendly, helping you stay connected and entertained.
Fuel efficiency is decent for a large SUV. This means you can travel longer distances without stopping too often for gas.
Overall, the Chevrolet Tahoe is reliable. It combines space, comfort, and power, making it an excellent option for your next adventure on the road.
5) Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a great choice for road trips. It offers a comfortable ride and plenty of space for passengers and luggage.
You can choose from different engine options, which gives you good power and fuel efficiency. The interior is well-designed, with quality materials.
Tech features enhance your journey. You’ll find a user-friendly infotainment system and plenty of safety options.
Off-road capabilities make it stand out. If your trip takes you on rugged paths, the Grand Cherokee handles it like a champ.
With a smooth drive and strong performance, this SUV is ready for any adventure you plan.
6) Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is a solid choice for road trips. Its spacious interior offers plenty of room for passengers and luggage. The back seat is comfortable for long drives.
You will appreciate the car’s all-wheel drive, which helps in different weather conditions. This feature gives you confidence when driving on various terrains.
The Outback also has good fuel economy, allowing you to go further without frequent stops. Plenty of tech features make your ride enjoyable, including a user-friendly infotainment system.
With its safety ratings, you can feel secure during your journey. All these aspects make the Outback a popular option for adventure seekers.
7) Mazda CX-9
The Mazda CX-9 is a great choice for road trips. It has a stylish design and offers plenty of space for passengers and luggage. You can comfortably fit up to seven people, making it ideal for family travels.
Inside, the CX-9 features a high-quality interior with user-friendly technology. The infotainment system is straightforward, so you can easily find music or navigation.
The CX-9 also delivers good fuel efficiency for an SUV. Its powerful engine provides a smooth ride, even on long journeys.
Overall, the Mazda CX-9 combines comfort, style, and space. It’s a solid option if you’re planning your next adventure.
8) Volkswagen Atlas
The Volkswagen Atlas is a spacious SUV, perfect for road trips. It has three rows of seats that can fit up to seven people. This makes it great for families or groups.
You will find plenty of room for luggage or snacks in the back. The Atlas offers a smooth ride, even on long journeys. Its quiet cabin keeps the focus on the road.
The infotainment system is user-friendly, making it easy to access maps and music. You can connect your phone with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Safety is a top priority with the Atlas. It comes with features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. These help keep you and your passengers safe.
With good fuel efficiency for its size, the Atlas is a smart choice for your next adventure.
Why SUVs Are Ideal For Road Trips
SUVs are great for road trips because they offer comfort, plenty of space, good fuel economy, and advanced safety features. They also handle well in various terrains, making your journey enjoyable and secure.
Comfort And Space
SUVs are built for comfort. They usually have spacious interiors that allow everyone to stretch out. Passengers can enjoy roomy seats, which is important for long drives.
Many SUVs also come with features like heated seats and dual-zone climate control. This means everyone can stay comfortable regardless of the weather outside.
You can also store more luggage and gear in an SUV. With split-folding rear seats, you have plenty of options for packing. This flexibility makes it easier to bring along everything you need for your trip.
Efficiency And Fuel Economy
Many modern SUVs are designed to be efficient. Improvements in engine technology help you save on gas, which is vital for long journeys.
Some models feature hybrid options. These hybrids can give you even better fuel economy while reducing emissions.
It’s important to check the miles per gallon (MPG) rating before choosing an SUV. Most newer models will exceed 20-30 MPG, which helps your budget during lengthy travels.
With an efficient SUV, you can spend less time at gas stations and more time enjoying the road.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority on road trips. SUVs often come with many advanced safety features to protect you and your passengers.
Many models include lane departure warnings and automatic braking systems. These features help you stay on course and can prevent accidents.
Furthermore, SUVs tend to have higher crash test ratings. Their larger size and more robust frame can deflect impact better than smaller cars.
Look for models with adaptive cruise control; this can be especially useful on long highway drives.
All-Terrain Capabilities
SUVs are designed to handle various driving conditions. Whether you’re on a smooth highway or a bumpy country road, an SUV can perform well.
Many models come with all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) systems. This offers better traction on wet or slippery surfaces, ensuring safety.
If you plan to take scenic routes or visit national parks, an SUV can handle rough terrains. You won’t have to worry about getting stuck or facing tough driving conditions.
With this capability, your road trip can take you to places that smaller cars simply can’t reach.
Preparing Your SUV For a Road Trip
Before hitting the road, it’s important to get your SUV ready. This includes checking its condition, packing smart, and preparing for emergencies. Taking these steps will help ensure a smooth journey.
Maintenance Check-Up
Start with a full check-up of your SUV. Important areas to inspect include:
- Oil Level: Check the oil level and change it if needed.
- Tires: Look for proper tire pressure and tread depth. Make sure the spare tire is in good shape too.
- Brakes: Test your brakes to ensure they work well.
- Fluids: Check coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid.
Make any necessary repairs before leaving. This will help you avoid problems while on the road.
Packing Essentials
Packing correctly can make your trip more enjoyable. Here’s what to consider bringing:
- Clothing: Pack enough clothes for the trip. Include comfortable shoes for driving and activities.
- Snacks and Drinks: Bring plenty of snacks and water. This helps save money and keeps everyone happy.
- Entertainment: Download movies, music, or games that everyone will enjoy. Headphones can keep the peace in the car.
Organize your items so everything is easily accessible. Use bins or bags to keep things tidy.
Emergency Kits And Supplies
An emergency kit is key for road trips. Make sure you have the following items:
- First-Aid Kit: Include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.
- Flashlight: A flashlight can be useful if you break down at night.
- Roadside Assistance Kit: This should have jumper cables, a tire inflator, and basic tools.
- Water and Non-Perishable Food: Keep extra water and snacks in case of delays.
Know how to use each item in your kit. Being prepared can save you a lot of stress during your trip.