car to rent for road trip

The best cars to rent for every kind of road trip

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One of the not-necessarily unpredictable but perhaps unintended consequences of the coronavirus pandemic is the rediscovery of the great American road trip.

After borders around the world closed for foreign visitors, Americans who typically crossed oceans for their big vacations were forced to look for travel opportunities closer to home.

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Fortunately, we live in one of the most spectacular countries on earth, with wide-open spaces, awe-inspiring scenery, a national park system that is the envy of the world and a truly impressive variety of regional culture and cuisine -- made accessible thanks in no small part to the vast system of interstate highways constructed in the 20th century.

With the pandemic forcing hundreds of thousands of workers out of their cubicles and back into their home offices, people hit the road in droves, eager to explore this beautiful land of ours. RV rentals became a hot commodity, with some even ditching their homes to live on the road full-time.

International travel may be making its comeback this summer, but for plenty of Americans, the good old-fashioned road trip -- with its promise of the open road and the discovery of someplace new -- is calling.

But what's a road trip without a suitable car ? With so many automobiles to choose from for your next adventure, we wanted to highlight some of the very best options for any type of road trip.

For a coastal or island drive: Ford Mustang

Picture yourself driving down the Pacific Coast Highway in California or along the ocean in Hawaii , top-down, music turned up. It's hard not to see yourself driving a Mustang. Ford's pony car is one of the most emblematic symbols of Americana ever to exist. Conceived in the 1960s, it instantly became a hit for anyone looking for an affordable car went fast and turned a lot of heads in the process. The Mustangs of the past have become classics, but today's version is a thoroughly modern vehicle that's hard to beat for good-weather cruising.

The standard Mustang is no slouch: It comes equipped with a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 310 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque. But if you really want to have fun carving the curves of a long and winding coastal highway, splurge for the GT convertible, which comes with a 5.0-liter V8 producing 460 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque, which is sure to put a smile on your sun-kissed face.

For a cross-country adventure: Volvo XC90

If you're setting out on a cross-country road trip, comfort is key. You'll want a vehicle that's quiet, efficient, spacious, equipped with enough creature comforts to keep you and your companions entertained, isn't bothered by the wide range of pavement quality we have in this country and, perhaps most importantly of all, has comfortable seats.

Volvo's flagship SUV, the XC90, has all of that and more. It's roomy enough for you and your friends or family -- and all your things. Plus, it comes packed to the gills with the latest in automotive technology including a touchscreen-based entertainment system and top-notch stereo systems. Its solid build quality guarantees you'll have a comfortable ride, even over the pothole-ridden roads found in parts of the country (looking at you, upper Midwest ). And, last but certainly not least, the Swedish automaker is known for producing arguably the best seats in the automotive industry -- on some trim levels, you can even opt for seats that massage you as you drive.

For snowy roads: Audi A4 Allroad

If you're road-tripping in the winter -- or somewhere that sees snow almost year-round -- you're going to want a vehicle that's as sure-footed in the snow and slush as it is on dry pavement. The Audi A4 Allroad is a lifted version of its A4 Avant station wagon that offers extra inches of ground clearance, perfect for snowy roadways. But the main feature that make this elevated wagon a force to be reckoned with in the snow is its standard Quattro all-wheel-drive system, which allows the car to plod through rain, snow and slush with ease. (Of course, if you're driving on mountain roads with deep, heavy snow we'd recommend fitting the tires -- of any vehicle -- with chains for extra confidence.)

And, since this is more or less a station wagon, you'll have extra room for everyone and their things married with the driving dynamics of a car. The Allroad's four-cylinder turbocharged engine means you won't be stopping too often for gas, either.

For tackling all types of terrain: Jeep Wrangler

You can't do much better than a Jeep Wrangler if you're looking for a vehicle that will go anywhere and do (just about) anything. This iconic American truck comes in two- and four-door configurations and offers such options as a removable roof and doors for serious off-roading. The Wrangler comes with a true 4x4 four-wheel-drive system and is equipped with large tires and a high suspension which allows it to tackle rocks and other terrains with aplomb. Its generous ground clearance allows the car to ford through 30 inches of water -- in case your adventure brings you across rivers or streams.

If you're getting off the interstate and want to explore some of the landscape that can't be accessed by any old car, you can't go wrong with the Wrangler.

For national-park hopping: Jeep Grand Cherokee

There's another Jeep on this list -- and for good reason. Its venerable Grand Cherokee has been the brand's standard-bearer for years, combining the best of Jeep's inherent offroad abilities with creature comforts you'd expect from a luxury SUV. If you think your road trip will combine long stints on the highway with some offroading (perhaps at one or several national parks , for example), the Grand Cherokee is the perfect vehicle to choose.

It delivers a smooth ride on the road along with plenty of technology and other comforts that make it easy to spend a lot of time in it, but also can handle anything that comes its way once you veer off the pavement.

Use the right credit card for your rental

When renting a vehicle , it's important to make sure you are covered in case you get into an accident. Damage waivers are typically available to purchase from your rental company at a cost of about $10 to $20 per day, but some credit cards , including the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card and Chase Sapphire Reserve® offer a primary damage waiver in case of damage or theft. Since the insurance is primary, you won't have to file a claim with your personal car insurance if there's damage to your car. You won't have to pay a hefty deductible or be subject to rate changes, but be aware that coverage is only valid on rentals of 31 days or less.

Bottom line

Road trips will continue to be a big part of the way Americans travel for the foreseeable future. Once you decide where you're going and what type of road trip you'll be embarking on, finding the right vehicle for the trip is the next step.

Just promise us you'll take our advice on how to skip the line at the rental car agency .

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10 Best Rental Cars For Cross-Country Road Trips

When traveling cross-country, it is crucial that you prioritize safety, comfort, and fuel efficiency to ensure that you have an enjoyable drive

When driving cross-country, whether it be for a vacation, for work, or any other reason - there are many factors you should be taking into consideration when choosing a rental car. Things like comfort, fuel efficiency, cargo room, and so much more will all play a role in the quality of your drive and how easily you're able to get to your destination.

While it is true that cars like the Ford Mustang or Cadillac Escalade make for very enjoyable road trip rentals, you may want to consider something a bit more fuel-efficient when planning to drive across the country. By choosing rental cars such as the Audi A3 or Toyota Camry, you still get a pleasant amount of space and comfort while also having a car that is enjoyable to drive.

Information was taken from Edmund's where possible, while MPG figures were taken from fueleconomy.gov .

Related: Best Rental Cars for a Road Trip

10 Nissan Versa

Max epa-estimated range: 378 miles.

The Nissan Versa is known as one of the most affordable cars of 2023 , and this makes it a great candidate for a cross-country road trip. While you may think that the cheapest car would make for a bad renting experience, this isn't true with the Versa. It offers many features that will make for an enjoyable road trip such as a touchscreen infotainment system, steering-mounted controls, autonomous braking, lane departure warning, and more.

Performance

On the exterior of the car, the Versa shares a similar classy-looking V-shaped front grille with the Maxima, as well as a sporty and aerodynamic-looking shape that is unlike the typical bubble-looking stature of some tiny compacts. A six-speed manual transmission comes standard , which adds a bit of fun to your cross-country commute.

9 Nissan Sentra

Max epa-estimated range: 409 miles.

The Nissan Sentra has always been an affordable go-to sedan for many drivers. It's even offered some pretty cool trims in the past such as the Sentra SE-R Spec V, a car that many Nissan enthusiasts will remember. Nowadays, the Sentra has transitioned into an efficient compact car that excels in many areas such as comfort, ease of use, and safety.

Cutting-edge technology along with a stylish exterior design and a fuel-efficient powertrain make the Sentra a top choice, whether you're using it as a daily driver or renting it to travel across the country. While the Sentra certainly isn't a speed demon, it makes up for its lack of power by getting nearly 40 MPG on the highway and just under 30 MPG in the city.

8 Hyundai Elantra

Max epa-estimated range: 422 miles.

Although the Hyundai Elantra is an entry-level sedan, it features an aggressive-looking exterior with a newly designed shark-looking front end. The base model has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. This makes for an efficient vehicle that doesn't give you that cheap rental car feeling.

If the 147 horsepower just won't cut it for you, Hyundai also offers an Elantra N trim that makes over 100 horses more than the base Elantra. The naturally aspirated 2.0 featured on the base model is spiced up by adding a turbocharger, increasing the output to 276 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque. It also offers a six-speed manual transmission, potentially making it one of the most fun rentals on the list. However, it is highly unlikely you'll find an Elantra N with one of the mainstream rental companies and you will have to look it up through services like Turo.

Related: 10 Best Family Cars That Are Fun To Drive

7 Dodge Charger

Max epa-estimated range: 426 miles.

The Dodge Charger has a rich history, being featured in multiple movies such as The Fast and The Furious, where it was Dominic Toretto's car of choice . It has gone through many changes since the muscle car era, turning into one of the fastest internal combustion cars available today in the Hellcat variant.

While a Charger Hellcat would certainly be a blast to drive across the country, it's inevitable that you'd end up spending a fortune on fuel. With this being said, it is probably best that you opt to rent the SXT trim - this car is no slouch either, featuring a 3.6-liter V-6 that makes 292 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, putting it on par with the Hyundai Elantra N in terms of power.

Max EPA-Estimated Range: 435 Miles

The A3 is Audi's entry-level sedan, and it does a great job of combining performance, efficiency, and luxury into one beautiful package. Even though the A3 is technically an entry-level luxury car , it still boasts the great features that set Audi apart from its competition.

The A3 features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 201 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. It comes standard in front-wheel drive, with the well-known Quattro all-wheel drive system being an option. If you plan to drive through some cold or wet climates during your journey, an A3 Quattro will certainly be better equipped for the task than the front-wheel drive options listed.

5 Honda Civic

Max epa-estimated range: 446 miles.

The Honda Civic is one of the most popular sedans on the market. Being commonly compared to the Toyota Corolla , this car boasts many features that make it a great option for a rental car. Features such as Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, blind spot monitoring, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a powered sunroof add convenience.

The Civic comes in six different trims - Sport Sedan, Sport Hatchback, EX Sedan, EX-L Hatchback, Touring Sedan, and the Sport Touring Sedan. Although some of the higher trims may not be offered as an option for a rental, you can be sure that you'll be getting Honda quality regardless of which trim is available.

Related: Famous Roads for Great Drives in California

4 Kia Forte

Max epa-estimated range: 448 miles.

With Hyundai being the parent company to Kia, you can expect many of the same great features that make these cars great to rent for long trips. The Kia Forte is equivalent to the Hyundai Elantra, with them both sharing the same powertrain - a 2.0-liter four cylinder.

The Forte does offer a GT version which features the same turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder as the Elantra GT, making 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. It does not, unfortunately, offer an equivalent to the Elantra N with the turbocharged 2.0-liter. However, there is still plenty of fun to be had in the six-speed manual Forte GT.

3 Volkswagen Jetta

Max epa-estimated range: 462 miles.

The Volkswagen Jetta, just like the Honda Civic, is commonly compared to the Toyota Corolla . The exterior of the car has a simple, yet elegant design that features some modern touches like updated LED lights and chrome accents on the front and rear. On the inside, a rather basic interior is present, although some resemblances of low-budget Audis can be seen.

A turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque comes in the base, sport, SE, and SEL trims (in 2023). The six-speed manual transmission comes standard while an eight-speed automatic is optional. By going with a turbocharged engine with a small displacement, Volkswagen was able to achieve some impressive MPG ratings as well, making for a great car to rent for a cross-country trip.

2 Toyota Corolla

Max epa-estimated range: 570 miles.

Many automotive brands are beginning to focus their efforts primarily on the SUV, crossover, hybrid, and EV sectors of the market, however, Toyota has been persistent in remaining on top by offering some of the best-selling sedans in the form of the Camry and Corolla. The Corolla is essentially a smaller, less-equipped version of the Camry, but don't let that fool you into thinking it's not worthwhile.

The Corolla features either a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 168 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque or a hybrid 1.8-liter four-cylinder that makes a combined 134 horsepower and 156 pound-feet of torque. Both powertrains utilize a CVT, or continuously variable transmission, to aid in better fuel efficiency. The non-hybrid trims also feature a manual shifting mode, which will definitely make things a bit less boring when driving cross-country. And just like the Camry - you'll have a spacious, comfortable, and practical cabin.

Related: ​​​​​​​ 10 Best Midsize Sedans For Families

1 Toyota Camry

Max epa-estimated range: 686 miles.

As per usual, Toyota has produced one of the most popular options for a high-quality sedan with the Camry. To be specific, it has remained on the top of the list as the most popular sedan for 20 years . The Camry is offered in 13 different trims, over double that of the Honda Civic - meaning there is bound to be a Camry that you'll enjoy.

The standard Camry features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that makes 201 horsepower, while the XLE and XSE trims feature a 3.5-liter V-6 that bumps it up to 301 horses. And while the non-hybrid Camry already has great MPG figures , you can also opt to rent a Toyota Camry Hybrid which will grant you a considerable amount of savings in fuel - when you drive cross-country, it adds up quickly.

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Rent the perfect vehicle with Getaround car rental services There are a thousand reasons why you may need a rental car. Maybe you’re moving and need a cargo van to move your furniture across town. Perhaps you’re going on a romantic getaway with your partner and want to rent a convertible to cruise around in. Or maybe you’re going on a business trip and need a luxury rental car to impress your clients! No matter what your needs are, Getaround is the perfect car rental option.

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Getaround cars are conveniently located across communities, at airports, and in cities around the world. That means car-sharing guests benefit from having affordable and convenient access to nearby rental cars. But there’s more! Getaround car rental is super flexible. You can rent a car by the hour or by the day. And, if your plans change, no big deal! You can cancel within 1 hour of booking or more than 24 hours before the start of your trip for free.

• Download the free Getaround app to your smartphone. Search for the vehicle you’d like to rent based on location and duration (by the hour or day…), and book the vehicle that best meets your needs.
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Getaround offers a huge array of fleet styles including trucks, vans, cars, convertibles, SUVs, and so much more. The variety of sizes, styles, colors, models, and makes is as large as the community or area where you’re renting a car. When you search for a car to book on the Getaround app or website, you can filter by your needs.

In our category filter, you can choose the type of vehicle you need: SUV/Jeep? Coupe/Sedan? Minivan? Pickup truck? The car rental options are endless. In our class filter, you can choose between economy, luxury, and performance. And guess what? You can even filter by transmission (automatic or manual) and by drivetrain (all-wheel drive, anyone?). But it doesn’t end there! You can even filter by special features. If you’re going on a ski trip and need a roof rack, you can search specifically for that. Pet-friendly cars, cars with bike racks, and cars with Bluetooth… You can request whatever you need from your Getaround rental car.

Whether you’re /going on a road trip with friends or taking a weekend getaway, Getaround car rental meets all your vehicle rental needs.

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Clark’s Road Trip Hack: Renting a Car vs. Driving Your Own

When it comes to travel, the perennial question for reasonable distances is whether you should make it a road trip or buy some plane tickets.

Of course, if you choose to drive rather than fly, you will need to build in more travel time. If you’ve decided that’s OK, you may think you’re all set. But you still have another car decision to make: Do you drive your own car or rent one?

Money expert Clark Howard says that you could save money in the long run if you rent a car for travel rather than driving your own.

Renting a Car vs. Driving Your Own on Vacation

“Instead of driving your own vehicle on your vacation, rent one,” Clark says. “Particularly if you’re going in a seven-day block, renting a vehicle could be a lot cheaper than effectively putting all those additional miles on your own vehicle.”

Another advantage is the opportunity to tailor the size of the vehicle to your needs. “Let’s say you need a larger or smaller vehicle or a different kind for your trip than what you own. Renting one can just work out so, so well,” he says.

Why It’s Sometimes Cheaper to Rent a Car Rather Than Drive Your Own

Understandably, you may be concerned about paying extra to rent a car rather than taking your own. Here are three reasons why it may be best to rent a car:

1. More Miles Can Hurt Your Resale Value

If you drive your own car, the additional miles you put on it will literally be driving down the resale value of your vehicle.

“ If you shop and find a good deal on a rental car , you put those trip miles and the depreciation that goes with it on that rental car instead of your own,” Clark says.

2. More Miles Mean More Maintenance and Repairs

Those highway miles may end up costing you more money than renting. The result? It means you’re closer to another maintenance visit to your mechanic — or maybe even a repair.

“Figure putting miles on your vehicle — at a minimum — at 50 cents a mile,” Clark says.

3. A Rental May Have Better Gas Mileage

A rental car may get you better gas mileage, which translates to lower fuel costs for your trip.

Of course, it depends on which make and model you choose, but the market for car rentals favors consumers right now, Clark says.

If your auto does need some maintenance or repair, Clark says it’s important to find a trustworthy mechanic.

You still need to shop around and see if renting makes financial sense based on how far you’ll drive and how many days you’ll be away. When you find one, Clark says you should never prepay for a rental car .

“Not every time, every date, every situation will you find a car rental to be cheaper, but usually you will, compared to the effective cost of putting those miles on your own vehicle,” Clark says.

Want more tips? Read our guide on the best and worst car rental companies .

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Hit the road: renting a car for a road trip

Ahhh, the road trip. In the entire canon of travel phrases, few are as evocative as that combination of two simple nouns. To me it evokes images of the Pacific Coast Highway – deserted coastal roads snaking along rocky cliffs under impossibly blue skies. Top down, engine revving, and the wind whipping through my hair. It’s impossible not to smile at the thought – or memory.

We’re not all lucky enough to own the kind of convertible, classic car, or campervan that such dreams are made of. But hiring a car for a road trip changes that. It opens up endless possibilities for what vehicle to get and, even more importantly, where it can take you. Buckle up, because here’s what you need to know for the (road) trip of a lifetime.

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Should I hire a car or use my own?

How much does renting a car for a road trip cost, what sort of vehicle should i hire, what sort of insurance do i need, how many miles can i drive, can i cross borders in a hire car.

Perhaps the most important thing to get right when planning a road trip is your wheels. If you already have a car, the most obvious thing to do is use it for your trip. But that may not be the right decision.

Reasons to hire a car for a road trip

The most obvious reason to hire a car is the versatility it gives you to pick the perfect vehicle. Whether you splash out on something extravagant or hire a home on wheels with a campervan, the choice is yours.

Hiring a car also avoids adding mileage to your own. That can be especially important if you lease your car and have mileage restrictions, or your car is old or unreliable. If your trip is long, the mileage and wear to your car could be costly down the line in maintenance.

Hire cars also often come with handy extras. If you’re crossing borders during your trip, international insurance is easy to organise. And most hire cars come with roadside assistance , an essential for any trip no matter your destination.

Reasons to use your own car for a road trip

The biggest downside to hiring a car is cost. Facing a potential fee of hundreds or even thousands of pounds can be intimidating and sway your decision immediately. Specialist vehicles like a campervan or convertible can be particularly expensive.

Convenience can also be a factor. Using your own car means no deadlines and no hidden fees – something car hire companies are infamous for. The familiarity of driving your own car can also reduce any anxiety you may have about driving long distances.

Finding the sweet spot between hiring or not can be tricky. My rule of thumb is the thousand-mile mark . If a trip is longer than that, I’ll almost always opt for a hire car. The longer you rent for, the lower the daily cost will be. And anything over 1,000 miles means significant wear on the car, meaning hiring is often more cost-effective in the long run.

The cost of your road trip will obviously depend on the vehicle you hire and how long you hire it for. It can also depend on when and where you hire from. If you’re trying to decide if it’s cheaper to hire a car, take public transport, or even fly to your destination, these are the things to consider.

The type of hire car

Not to sound obvious, but the bigger and flashier your hire car is, the higher the cost. Unless you’re going for something specialist, try to find the balance between price and comfort.

If you’re splashing out on a big road trip, don’t spend it uncomfortably wedged into the wrong car just to save some money. Equally, there’s no need to hire a huge, gas-guzzling 4x4 for a romantic couple's trip. Choosing a car in the right category can save you a lot of money.

When you book a hire car

As with plane tickets, booking your car hire in advance will be cheaper. Typically, you should start checking prices a month before your departure date and look to book two weeks before. Using a site like KAYAK will help you compare deals across different platforms, which is almost always cheaper than booking directly.

Where you hire your car from

The cheapest way to hire a car for a road trip is to do it online, in advance. You’ll always pay more if you book at the counter on the day.

It’s equally important to think about where you hire from. Hiring at airports and transport hubs is almost always more expensive than doing so at city centre or suburban locations. If you’re flying in, you may not have much choice other than the airport. But if you can, going slightly out of your way to collect your hire car may make it much cheaper.

Where you return your hire car

If you can, return your hire car to the same place you collected it. One of my favourite things about road tripping is having a destination to aim for – a coast-to-coast road trip, for example. But the cost of leaving your hire car on the other side of the country can be a nightmare.

Many hire companies impose significant fees for just such a service. On a recent road trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas , I couldn’t face the return drive. But the hire company fees to leave the car and fly home were enough to get me back behind the wheel.

Prepaying for petrol

Don’t take the car hire agency’s offer for the prepaid full tank option. Unless you use every drop of petrol in the tank, you’ll inevitably be paying for fuel you don’t use. They may also charge a premium for the service. Instead, simply opt to return the vehicle with a full tank and fill up as close to the return point as you can. Any GPS or mapping app will be able to direct you to a convenient petrol station.

Your vehicle should depend on your trip. If you’re taking on dirt tracks and rough roads on a cross-country odyssey, a compact city runabout won’t cut the mustard. Similarly, if you’re heading into the wilderness with few facilities, a campervan may be more practical than a Mustang convertible.

And if you’re a proponent of electric vehicles , make sure to check and plan your recharge points en route. The further from cities you are, the less likely you are to find charge points.

While insurance is essential for hiring a car, it can be a bit of a minefield choosing the right one. Hire cars usually come with different levels of cover , often at wildly different prices. Some will cover just your hire vehicle. Others will cover any injuries or damage you might cause to yourself, your passengers, or others.

The most sensible option is to take out full insurance to cover all eventualities, but it’s not always that simple. For the full lowdown, check the KAYAK complete guide to car hire insurance .

If you’re taking your own car, you should check with your insurer that your policy meets your needs. If you need to add another driver or are driving internationally, you may need to pay a premium.

Unless your trip is a short one, check that your hire car comes with unlimited mileage . A reasonably new phenomenon, car hire companies are now squeezing extra money out of hire cars with mileage restrictions. This is often as little as 100 miles a day, with per-mile charges afterwards that can soon mount up.

It’s usually no problem to cross borders in your hire car , but you should always check with the hire company first. Some may impose a small daily fee while you’re driving internationally. Don’t forget to make sure the roadside assistance/breakdown cover is also valid!

Your road trip is built around the vehicle you’re driving, so it’s worth making sure you’re behind the right wheel. That’s true whether you’re on an epic family journey or a romantic couple’s break.

Once you’ve chosen your route and vehicle, the KAYAK car hire guide will help you get the best deal. Then it’s just a case of buckling up, cranking up the tunes, and hitting the road. Just don’t forget the snacks !

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Best Road Trip Cars in 2023

Get ready to hit the road for vacations and holidays in a car that's fuel efficient, reliable and comfortable. We found the best road trip cars for any adventure.

Kia Motors America |

Looking for Adventure? Head Out on the Highway!

People have a lot of pent-up travel lust after years of pandemic restrictions and uncertainty. Air travel in particular has seen a huge rise this summer, with the busiest day in the industry's history occurring in June. Rather than fight those busy flights, hit the road in a new vehicle that can fit all your luggage and maybe even help you keep your cool.

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No single car is the perfect road trip vehicle for everyone, but great road trip cars have some features in common. We looked for vehicles that have good gas mileage for fewer stops at gas stations, enough USB ports to keep everyone's devices charged up and comfortable seats in all rows. Driver assistance features are important too, as they can help reduce fatigue during long days on the road.

When new information becomes available, we update our reviews, so the information in these slides might not match the reviews exactly.

Let's take a look at the best road trip cars so we can – finally – get out of town.

Hyundai Motor America |

2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

$31,350 | usn overall score: 8.7/10.

The 2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is among the best in its class. Its long list of features was refreshed for the new model year, and it was a finalist for our Best Hybrid SUV for the Money and Best Hybrid SUV for Families awards. The regular hybrid is the best for road tripping, with up to 38 mpg on the highway. The available plug-in hybrid shines brightest when you can take full advantage of its 33 miles of electric-only power around town.

Inside, there's tons of room for adults in both rows of seating and a huge cargo area. An 8-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay , wireless Android Auto , four USB ports and wireless device charging come standard.

More on the 2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

• See 2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Photos  »
• Find the best price on the 2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid »
• Read the 2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Full Review  »
• See Hybrid SUV Rankings  »

Volkswagen of America, Inc. |

2023 Volkswagen Atlas

$34,460 | usn overall score: 8.0/10.

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas has enough room to bring along everybody and all their gear. It's available with two or three rows of seating, and even the optional third row has enough room for shorter adults or squirmy kids. It has more cargo space behind the third row than most in its class. A 6.5-inch touch screen and smartphone compatibility come standard.

Despite being a 3-row SUV, the Atlas is easy to maneuver, even when you leave the highway for city streets. It can also tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly configured if you plan to bring a small camper or want to tow some toys for your vacation.

More on the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas

• See 2023 Volkswagen Atlas Photos  »
• Find the best price on the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas »
• Read the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas Full Review  »
• See Midsize SUV Rankings  »

Ford Motor Company |

2023 Lincoln Navigator

$77,635 | usn overall score: 8.8/10.

Wherever your road trip takes you, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator will make sure you arrive in comfort and style. It's one of the best luxury large SUVs, with a well-built and high-quality interior. Standard features include a 13.2-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone connectivity, a Wi-Fi hotspot and five USB ports.

Every seat in all three rows is comfortable, and the available L model adds extra space to an already roomy cargo area. And though it is large, the Navigator turns in decent fuel economy estimates for its class, with up to 23 mpg on the highway. Standard safety features like lane-keep assist can help reduce driver fatigue too.

More on the 2023 Lincoln Navigator

• See 2023 Lincoln Navigator Photos  »
• Find the best price on the 2023 Lincoln Navigator »
• Read the 2023 Lincoln Navigator Full Review  »
• See Luxury Large SUV Rankings  »

General Motors |

2023 Chevrolet Suburban

$57,200 | overall score: 8.2/10.

The 2023 Chevrolet Suburban is the classic family road trip SUV. It's huge, with more cargo space than almost any SUV out there. It can be configured to seat up to nine people (though it's a tight fit). With seven or eight seats, even the third row provides enough legroom for adults. The interior is sturdy enough for epic journeys, and it comes with an 8-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone connectivity and six USB ports.

Depending on how you configure it, the Suburban can tow up to 8,300 pounds, enough for the average camper. It also comes with driver-assistance features like lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist and automatic emergency braking.

More on the 2023 Chevrolet Suburban

• See 2023 Chevrolet Suburban Photos  »
• Find the best price on the 2023 Chevrolet Suburban »
• Read the 2023 Chevrolet Suburban Full Review  »
• See Large SUV Rankings  »

2023 Genesis G90

$88,400 | usn overall score: 9.3/10.

The 2023 Genesis G90 was completely redesigned this year, and it added an optional mild-hybrid powertrain that improves acceleration when passing on the highway. The available air suspension makes long drives a dream, and the long list of standard safety features-including adaptive cruise control-eases the tedium of driving.

The Nappa leather interior wraps the road tripper in luxury, and both rows of seating are comfortable for adults. The trunk is large enough for several suitcases, and it opens automatically as you approach. The G90 also has one of the longest warranties in the business.

More on the 2023 Genesis G90

• See 2023 Genesis G90 Photos  »
• Find the best price on the 2023 Genesis G90 »
• Read the 2023 Genesis G90 Full Review  »
• See Luxury Large Car Rankings  »

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. |

2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

$30,725 | usn overall score: 8.2/10.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid takes everything that has made this compact SUV popular over the years, like a comfortable ride and plenty of standard high-tech features, and added a fuel-efficient and quick-accelerating hybrid powertrain. It can get up to 41 mpg on the highway, which helps cut road trip costs. It was also a finalist for our Best Hybrid SUV for the Money award.

The interior is solidly built, and both rows of seating are comfy. There's also great visibility for everyone, so games of "I Spy" may get competitive. An 8-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone compatibility and a Wi-Fi hotspot come standard. Adaptive cruise control and traffic-sign recognition (both standard) help you when driving in unfamiliar locations.

More on the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

• See 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Photos  »
• Find the best price on the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid »
• Read the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Full Review  »

American Honda Motor Co., Inc. |

2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

$32,950 | usn overall score: 8.3/10.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid is a more fuel-efficient version of the popular compact SUV, with up to 43 mpg on the highway. It's been completely redesigned this year, with more standard tech features and an improved infotainment system. A 7-inch touch screen, smartphone connectivity, a Wi-Fi hotspot and four USB ports come standard.

The seats are comfy in both rows, with room for adults to stretch out even on road trips. The rear seats recline, so whoever is off driving duty can take a nap. Standard adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist help reduce the fatigue that can come with hours of driving.

More on the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

• See 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid Photos  »
• Find the best price on the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid »
• Read the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid Full Review  »

2024 Kia Carnival

$33,200 | overall score: 8.5/10.

The 2024 Kia Carnival basically begs you to get the show on the road, and it comes standard with several advanced safety features, including driver-attention monitoring.

The interior is upholstered with easy-to-clean materials, and all three rows have enough room for adults, though the third row is short on headroom. It also has lots of cargo space, even with all three rows in use. An 8-inch touch screen, smartphone compatibility and seven USB ports come standard.

More on the 2024 Kia Carnival

• See 2024 Kia Carnival Photos  »
• Find the best price on the 2024 Kia Carnival »
• Read the 2024 Kia Carnival Full Review  »
• See Minivan Rankings  »

Stellantis |

2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

$50,795 | usn overall score: 8.6/10.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacific Hybrid is a plug-in hybrid, so when you reach your destination and charge up, you can drive about 32 miles on electric power alone. Under electric power, this Chrysler gets 82 MPG-equivalent, and gasoline-only driving returns up to 30 mpg on the highway. These are great numbers for a minivan.

There's also a ton of tech included, like a 10.1-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone connectivity and Amazon Alexa compatibility. All three rows of seating have lots of head- and legroom, and there's plenty of storage space. Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control and a surround-view parking camera system.

More on the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

• See 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Photos  »
• Find the best price on the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid »
• Read the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Full Review  »

2023 Ram 1500

$31,270 | usn overall score: 9.0/10.

If your road trip plan involves a camper or boat, you'll want to look into the 2023 Ram 1500 . When properly equipped, it can tow up to 12,750 pounds. As with most pickups, you can configure the 1500 in whatever way works for you.

There are a lot of options and body styles to choose from too, but they all have a spacious, high-quality interior. The availability of safety features and infotainment tech depends on the trim you choose and the options you select, so you can custom-build the road-tripping pickup of your dreams – or the one that fits your budget.

More on the 2023 Ram 1500

• See 2023 Ram 1500 Photos  »
• Find the best price on the 2023 Ram 1500 »
• Read the 2023 Ram 1500 Full Review  »
• See Full Size Pickup Truck Rankings  »

2023 Honda Civic

$23,750 | usn overall score: 8.7/10.

Your road-trip car is probably also your go-to-work-every-day car. The 2023 Honda Civic ably handles both roles. It's one of the best compact cars in its class, and we named it the Best Compact Car for the Money as well as one of the Best Cars for Teens . All of its scores are high, especially when it comes to safety. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave it the Top Safety Pick+ designation.

It's not just safe, it's also thrifty, with up to 42 mpg on the highway. A 7-inch touch screen and smartphone connectivity come standard. It also comes with adaptive cruise control and traffic-sign recognition, which make driving in unfamiliar areas a bit easier.

More on the 2023 Honda Civic

• See 2023 Honda Civic Photos  »
• Find the best price on the 2023 Honda Civic »
• Read the 2023 Honda Civic Full Review  »
• See Compact Car Rankings  »

2023 Ford Mustang

$27,770 | usn overall score: 9.2/10.

Sometimes you want to live the American road trip dream in an impractical sports car. But guess what – the 2023 Ford Mustang is a rather practical sports car with one of the highest overall U.S. News scores. There are several available engines, but sticking with the base turbo-four means an estimated 32 mpg on the highway.

Living the American muscle car fantasy on the open road is best for two people, since the Mustang's rear seats are pretty small. Its standard infotainment system has a 4.2-inch display – not a touch screen – and a Wi-Fi hot spot. Standard safety tech includes automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. But maybe most importantly, for purposes of the dream, the Mustang is available as a convertible.

More on the 2023 Ford Mustang

• See 2023 Ford Mustang Photos  »
• Find the best price on the 2023 Ford Mustang »
• Read the 2023 Ford Mustang Full Review  »
• See Sports Car Rankings  »

Road Trip Car Characteristics

Passenger space : People turn cranky when they aren't comfortable after hours on the road. There needs to be space for everyone to stretch out.

Cargo space : At the very minimum, you'll be bringing luggage along and maybe also camping gear or tubes for floating the river. Make sure there's space for your gear.

Fuel economy : Stopping for gas on a road trip can get expensive. Fuel efficiency, particularly from hybrid powertrains, can ease the pain of stopping at the pump.

Infotainment : An AM/FM radio is no longer sufficient for most people. An infotainment system that's easy to use while driving and can connect to smartphones is key.

Safety tech : Driving long distances causes fatigue, and fatigue causes accidents. Modern driver-assistance features can help you stay alert and in your lane.

Reliability : No one wants to be the car in the breakdown lane while on their road trip. A good predicted reliability score shows that a particular model has on average been a solid performer over time.

John M. Vincent | U.S. News & World Report

Road Trip Car FAQs

What is the best car for road trips.

The best car for road trips is the one that fits your budget and your needs, so there's no one vehicle that will work for everybody. That said, the 2023 Honda Civic is a strong pick. It provides comfort, features, safety and reliability, and all for one of the lowest price tags on this list.

What is the best SUV for road trips?

The 2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid combines a long list of standard features with great fuel economy, and it has one of the most spacious interiors in its class.

What is the best luxury car for road trips?

The redesigned 2023 Genesis G90 will take you anywhere in comfort and style. Most of its best features are standard, including leather upholstery.

What is the most comfortable car for long trips?

On a list of very comfortable vehicles, the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid is probably the most comfortable, especially for back-seat passengers who can take advantage of those reclining seats. If comfort is your priority, take a look at our list of most comfortable cars for more options.

U.S. News and World Report |

More Shopping Tools From U.S. News & World Report

Plenty of families take road trips, so you might want to check out the winners of our 2023 Best Cars for Families awards too. Maybe you've been left stranded on an unfamiliar road by your former car and are looking for the most reliable cars available. If you know you need to bring along a lot of gear, see our roundup of compact SUVs with the most cargo space .

When you're ready to buy a new car, use our Best Price Program to pre-negotiate a great price with a local dealership. You can arrange for online buying and even vehicle delivery through the program.

U.S. News & World Report |

Best Cars for Road Trips

• 2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid - $31,350 | Overall Score: 8.7/10
• 2023 Volkswagen Atlas - $34,460 | Overall Score: 8.0/10
• 2023 Lincoln Navigator - $77,635| Overall Score: 8.8/10
• 2023 Chevrolet Suburban - $57,200 | Overall Score: 8.2/10
• 2023 Genesis G90 - $88,400 | Overall Score: 9.3/10
• 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid - $31,225 | Overall Score: 8.2/10
• 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid - $32,950 | Overall Score: 8.3/10
• 2024 Kia Carnival - $33,200 | Overall Score: 8.5/10
• 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid - $50,795 | Overall Score: 8.6/10
• 2023 Ram 1500 - $31,270 | Overall Score: 9.0/10
• 2023 Honda Civic - $23,750 | Overall Score: 8.7/10
• 2023 Ford Mustang - $27,770 | Overall Score: 9.2/10

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Rental car additional driver options

Can i add an additional driver .

Yes, we allow for up to 9 additional drivers per booking. The additional driver (s) will need to have their license verified at the SIXT branch when the vehicles is picked up or at some point during the rental contract. If you have Gold, Platinum or Diamond status with SIXT, you can add one additional driver free of charge (US residents only).

Why should I add an additional driver?

Opting for an additional driver will allow you more flexibility when traveling. Whether you’re going on a road trip or visiting family, your trip will be more enjoyable with multiple drivers.  

• If you get sick or suffer an injury while traveling , you won’t have to worry about who will drive. With another driver listed on the rental contract, you can hand over driving responsibilities without any worries or hassle.
• When driving long distances , having an additional driver allows you to rest and take in the scenery.  This allows you and your travel companions to have a safer and more enjoyable journey.