Exploring the Open Road: Best Vehicles for Every Kind of Road Trip
Exploring the Open Road: Best Vehicles for Every Kind of Road Trip
Posted on May 15, 2025
There’s something undeniably freeing about hitting the open roads. Especially with the windows down, music up and scenic views ahead. However, the experience of a road trip varies depending on the vehicle you choose. Whether you're crossing provinces or driving to visit lookouts and waterfalls, the right car can make all the difference.
Compact Cars: Big Fun in a Small Package
Compact sedans and hatchbacks are perfect for solo travelers or couples seeking economical adventures. Vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra and Volkswagen Golf offer excellent fuel efficiency ranging from 6.5 – 7.5 L/ 100 km, smooth handling, and enough trunk space for weekend bags. These types of vehicles would be ideal for urban explorations, city-to-city travel, and short getaways.
SUVs and Crossovers: Versatile and Comfortable for Families
Mid-size and full-size SUVs like the Ford Escape, Subaru Outback, Mazda CX-5, or Kia Sorento are among the most popular choices for family road trips. These vehicles strike a balance between space, performance, and safety, making them ideal for long journeys with children or pets. Driving in a SUV or Crossover also allows for a higher driving position for better visibility and AWD options for rugged routes. These vehicles would be ideal for National park tours, cross-country road trips, family vacations, or even camping.
New SUVs & Crossovers Inventory
Pickup Trucks: Built to Haul, Tow and Take You Places
If your journey involves hauling camping gear, bikes, or trailers, a pickup truck is your best bet. The Ram 1500, Nissan Frontier, Ford F-150, and Toyota Tundra provide serious power and utility for outdoorsy adventurers. With pickup trucks it is great to ensure there is high towing capacity, they are durable for off-road terrains and of course have a large cargo bed for gear. Vehicles as such are great for camping trips, fishing expeditions, and off-the-grid adventures.
Minivans: Practical and Spacious for Group Travel
Don’t underestimate the appeal of a minivan. Models like the Chrysler Pacifica, Toyota Sienna, and Honda Odyssey are one of the best choices for comfort and convenience for large groups or extended families. These vehicles have sliding doors for easy access, entertainment systems for kids, and have a generous third-row seating that can be turned into cargo space. Besides group road trips or family reunions, minivans are also great for sports team travel.
Electric Vehicles (EVs): Eco-Friendly for Tech-Savvy
EVs like the Hyundai IONIQ 5, Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe, MINI Cooper SE, and BMW i4 are changing the way people road trip. With an expanding charging network across North America, going green is more practical than ever. EVs make your road trip have zero emissions, are quieter, and have a smooth drive. As well, lower long-term fuel costs. As vehicles become more efficient, the amount of km per charge continues to rise, meaning less stopping and being able to stay on-route. These vehicles are made for the environmentally conscious travelers, tech lovers, and urban-to-urban route goers.
New Electric Vehicles Inventory
Every road trip is unique, and so is the vehicle that best suits it. Whether you prioritize fuel economy, space, power, or eco-friendliness, today’s automotive market offers a wide range of choices for every type of traveler. Before you rev up the engine, consider your destination, travel companions, and cargo needs, then select the perfect ride to turn your next road trip into an unforgettable adventure.
Visit us at any of our Performance Auto Group locations for assistance in finding your next vehicle that matches your journey.
Author: Anita Marinho