Starting a road trip is more about the journey than the vehicle itself. Icons like John Steinbeck and Jack Kerouac demonstrated that any car capable of taking you down the open road can create a memorable adventure. Today, modern advancements offer options that enhance comfort, efficiency, and excitement, making road trips better than ever.
From rugged trails to family-friendly getaways, choosing the right car for your trip depends on your goals and companions. Here, we explore 10 exceptional vehicles for various road trip styles—proving that your perfect road trip companion might just be waiting in the dealership lot.
Ford Mustang Mach-E
Best for: Electric adventures
The Ford Mustang Mach-E transforms electric driving into a road trip delight. With up to 312 miles of range, it ensures long-distance capability while staying eco-friendly. The BlueOval Charge Network offers seamless charging, and its Power My Trip app simplifies route planning. The cabin is quiet and comfortable, with ample cargo space for gear. DC Fast Charging restores 59 miles of range in just 10 minutes, making recharging quick and stress-free. Combining sustainability with cutting-edge tech, the Mach-E makes electric adventures accessible and exciting for modern explorers seeking style and substance on the road.
Chevrolet Suburban
Best for: Once-in-a-lifetime trips
Few vehicles rival the Chevrolet Suburban for road trip versatility. Its spacious cabin offers 121 cubic feet of cargo space, while an 8,000-pound towing capacity ensures no gear is left behind. A 3.0-liter turbodiesel engine provides efficiency and endurance, perfect for extended journeys. This SUV’s refined ride quality and advanced safety features make it ideal for family adventures. Whether crossing state lines with a trailer or embarking on a luxurious getaway, the Suburban balances rugged capability with sophistication, ensuring every mile is memorable. It’s a trusted partner for creating epic, bucket-list-worthy road trips.
Hyundai Santa Cruz
Best for: Outdoor adventurers
Blending the utility of a pickup with the agility of a crossover, the Hyundai Santa Cruz is a dream for outdoor enthusiasts. Its 1,000-pound payload and 5,000-pound towing capacity handle bikes, kayaks, or camping gear effortlessly. With a highway fuel economy of 27 mpg, it balances power and efficiency. Accessory options like racks for rooftop tents or bicycles enhance its adaptability. Comfortable seating for five and a tech-forward interior make long drives enjoyable. Whether camping under the stars or hitting the trails, the Santa Cruz brings innovation and versatility to outdoor road-tripping.
Subaru Outback Wilderness
Best for: All-around touring
The Subaru Outback Wilderness is engineered for versatility. Its off-road enhancements include a lifted suspension, all-terrain tires, and skid plates, making it capable on rugged trails. A lower gear ratio boosts torque, while the reinforced roof rack supports rooftop tents. With ample ground clearance and Subaru’s hallmark all-wheel-drive system, it handles diverse terrains confidently. Inside, the spacious cabin and intuitive tech ensure comfort and connectivity. Combining dependability with adventure-ready features, the Outback Wilderness excels at blending everyday usability with off-road escapades, making it a top choice for adventurous and all-encompassing road trips.
Kia Telluride
Best for: Family travelers on a budget
The Kia Telluride delivers premium features without breaking the bank. This midsize SUV seats up to eight, offering spaciousness and advanced tech like USB ports for every passenger. Its 291-hp V6 engine ensures smooth performance, achieving 26 mpg highway in front-wheel-drive models. Driver aids such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist enhance safety. The interior feels upscale, with soft-touch materials and an intuitive infotainment system. Ideal for family road trips, the Telluride combines value with luxury-level comfort, ensuring everyone enjoys the journey, whether for a weekend getaway or a cross-country vacation.
Subaru BRZ
Best for: Weekend road trips
The Subaru BRZ is a sports coupe designed for driving enthusiasts. Its rear-wheel-drive setup and 228-hp boxer engine deliver exhilarating performance on twisty mountain roads. Compact yet functional, it accommodates weekend luggage in its trunk. The lightweight chassis enhances handling, while features like a digital cockpit and touchscreen infotainment keep the driver connected. Affordable trims and a focus on pure driving enjoyment make the BRZ a top choice for couples or solo travelers seeking spirited weekend road trips. It’s a throwback to classic motoring thrills with modern reliability and flair.
Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4xe
Best for: Off-road adventurers
The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4xe is a plug-in hybrid tailored for off-road exploration. With 21 miles of all-electric range, it combines sustainability with rugged capability. Dana 44 axles, electronic locking differentials, and a sway bar disconnect enhance its trail prowess. The spacious cabin and versatile cargo space suit gear-heavy adventures, while hybrid torque provides extra climbing power. Whether navigating rocky trails or cruising silently through forests, the 4xe merges Jeep’s off-road legacy with modern eco-consciousness. It’s the ultimate vehicle for adventurers who demand toughness without compromising environmental responsibility.
Ford Mustang Convertible
Best for: Route 66
The Ford Mustang Convertible captures the essence of classic American road trips. Choose between the turbocharged EcoBoost Premium or the powerful GT V8 for a thrilling open-air experience. Features like heated and cooled seats and the intuitive Sync 4 infotainment system elevate comfort. Its iconic design turns heads, while the refined ride ensures long-haul pleasure. Perfect for scenic drives on historic highways like Route 66, the Mustang Convertible delivers nostalgia and modern performance, embodying the spirit of freedom and adventure that defines a quintessential road trip.
Kia Carnival
Best for: Family road trips
The Kia Carnival redefines minivans with its bold styling and luxurious amenities. Inside, reclining second-row seats and spacious third-row accommodations prioritize comfort for all passengers. Ample cargo capacity and modern tech, including rear-seat entertainment options, make long drives enjoyable for families. Advanced safety features provide peace of mind, while the smooth ride ensures a relaxing journey. Practical yet stylish, the Carnival combines minivan utility with SUV-like sophistication, proving that family road trips can be both functional and fun. It’s a reliable choice for memorable family adventures.
Volvo V90
Best for: Wagon enthusiasts
The Volvo V90 Cross Country offers station wagon practicality with premium luxury. Its elegant interior, featuring high-end materials like walnut accents, pairs beautifully with advanced tech like a panoramic sunroof and Bowers & Wilkins audio. A mild-hybrid engine provides 29 mpg highway, ensuring efficiency on long drives. The 69-cubic-foot cargo space accommodates luggage, while all-wheel drive handles varied road conditions. Ideal for those who appreciate understated elegance, the V90 blends Scandinavian design with modern convenience, making it a standout choice for refined, leisurely road trips.
The perfect road trip car isn’t about extravagance but suitability. Whether you seek rugged exploration, family bonding, or solo escapades, these vehicles cater to diverse adventures. From electric innovations to classic open-road charm, this lineup proves that a memorable journey starts with the right set of wheels. Pack your bags, choose your ride, and hit the road—adventure awaits.
