The 11 Best Used Cars for a Cross-Country Road Trip
The 11 Best Used Cars for a Cross-Country Road Trip
Posted on August 30, 2024
Looking for the best used car for cross country road trip? It's a long way from here in Calgary out to the Maritimes, where you might be visiting family or seeing the sights. We’ve put together our top picks that excel in car comfort, fuel efficiency, cargo space, and reliability—and go the distance.
This list will help you find the ideal used vehicle under 30,000 km to make your road trip smooth and enjoyable, from sedans to SUVs and minivans. Let's jump in and find out what car would serve you best on the highway first and the city second.
Quick Breakdown of The Best Used Cars For Road Trips
- SUVs: Subaru Outback (versatile, AWD), Honda CR-V (fuel-efficient, driver assistance), Toyota Highlander (seats 7, advanced safety features). Ideal for road trips, camping, and family travel with lots of luggage and fewer stops.
- Sedans/Hatchbacks: Toyota Camry (highly reliable, spacious trunk, high safety ratings), Honda Accord (roomy interior, fuel-efficient). Ideal for long road trips with many stops and heavy traffic at the destination.
- Minivans: Honda Odyssey (seats 8, advanced entertainment), Toyota Sienna (seats 7 or 8, hybrid, fuel-efficient), Chrysler Pacifica (Stow ‘n Go seating; expanded storage, affordable). Ideal for family road trips with children and lots of stops.
- Zero Emissions Vehicles: Toyota Prius (hybrid, high fuel efficiency, advanced safety), Hyundai Ioniq 5 (electric, hyper efficient, comfortable), Tesla Model 3 (electric, full self-driving, superior efficiency, advanced tech). Ideal for long road trips, heavy traffic at destination, with many stops.
Canadian Road Trip Considerations
Choosing the right vehicle ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey before and after your big trip. The ideal car enhances comfort, fuel efficiency, cargo space, and reliability on the longer trips you can make from east to west, or even up north to the Yukon.
This guide explores key factors in choosing road trip cars, highlights the best used cars for various road trips, and shares tips for car preparation. Whether for an extended journey along highway 1 or a weekend getaway to BC, this guide is here to help.
Key Factors for Choosing a Cross-Country Road Trip Car
Choosing a roadworthy vehicle that's great at highway driving and reliable at high mileages takes a different set of buying questions than your all-purpose vehicle for commuting. Ask our sales advisors if any inventory matches your dreams of a cross-country road trip!
The right vehicle for a cross-country adventure can make all the difference. From a comfortable ride to ample cargo space for camping gear, selecting the best road trip cars requires careful consideration. We've narrowed down key factors identified by our sales team to help you pick the right car for your road trip:
- comfort and convenience features
- fuel efficiency
- cargo space
- reliability scores
Comfort and Convenience Features
A comfortable journey begins with a car offering supportive seating, good visibility, and climate control. These features keep both driver and passengers relaxed on long-distance drives. Additionally, a quiet cabin and high-quality sound system can turn a long drive into a pleasant experience.
Convenience features make the trip smoother. Available driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control and safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning enhance safety and reduce driver fatigue.
Seek cars with enough passenger space and interior storage options to keep everything organized and within reach; your ability to go farther means everyone has comfort and amenities within reach to make for fewer stops.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency s make-or-break for long road trips, especially when we're talking thousands of kilometres roundtrip. Cars with excellent fuel economy save money on gas and reduce the frequency of stops, making the journey more enjoyable. Vehicles like the Honda Accord, known for impressive fuel economy, are ideal for long-distance travel.
Cargo Space
Ample cargo space is essential for road trips. Whether packing family luggage or camping gear, having enough room to store everything comfortably makes all the difference.
SUVs and minivans, like the Honda Odyssey with exceptional cargo space, are perfect for larger items. Ensure the vehicle offers sufficient space for a hassle-free journey—and balance your choice between passenger and cargo space.
Reliability
Reliability is possibly the most important factor when choosing a road trip car. A reliable vehicle minimizes breakdown risk and ensures a smooth journey. Cars like the Toyota Camry, known for performance and fewer repairs, are ideal for long-distance travel. At the end of the day, keeping your car in top condition makes all the difference in your road trip adventure.
Best Used SUVs and Station Wagons for Cross Country Road Trips
SUVs excel as road trip cars due to their spacious interiors, off-road capabilities, and comfort. They offer ample cargo space for luggage and camping gear, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. Here are some top used SUVs perfect for your next cross-country adventure: Subaru Outback, Honda CR-V, and Toyota Highlander.
Subaru Outback
In the city, the Outback gets 9.0 L/100km while on the highway it manages an impressive 7.4L/100km.
The Subaru Outback is a versatile, family-friendly SUV, ideal for road trips. Known for ample cargo space and all-wheel drive, it handles various terrains and weather conditions with ease. Its impressive fuel economy and comfortable ride make it excellent for long-distance travel. Subaru Outback owners enjoy 8.4 L/100km city/highway combined fuel efficiency!
The Outback's reliability score in recent years according to J.D. Power was a solid 80 out of 100, making it a dependable choice for long-distance travel.
Honda CR-V
In the city, the CR-V gets 8.7 L/100km while on the highway it manages an amazing 7.4L/100km.
The Honda CR-V is another top contender for road trips. Its reliability, excellent fuel efficiency, and ample cargo space make it practical for long-distance travel—since Honda CR-V owners enjoy 8.1 L/100km city/highway combined fuel efficiency.
The CR-V’s driver assistance features enhance safety and provide peace of mind. Whether traveling solo or with family, the Honda CR-V ensures comfort. The CR-V reliability score in recent years according to J.D. Power was a strong 80 out of 100, making it a reliable and trusted choice for long road trips.
Toyota Highlander
In the city, the Highlander gets 11.2 L/100km while on the highway it manages a good 8.4L/100km.
The Toyota Highlander stands out for its good seating capacity and advanced safety features, making it ideal for family road trips. With room for up to 7 passengers, it ensures comfort for everyone.
The Highlander’s powertrain offers impressive fuel efficiency, making it economical for extended journeys; Toyota Highlander owners enjoy 9.8 L/100km city/highway combined fuel efficiency. As for its spacious interior and reliable performance, it delivers, making it a top pick for cross-country adventures.
the Highlander's reliability score in recent years according to J.D. Power was an impressive 82 out of 100, making it a highly dependable option for long-distance travel.
Best Used Sedans for Cross Country Road Trips
Sedans can be excellent for road trips, offering a balance of comfort, fuel efficiency, and reliability. They are often more affordable and provide a comfortable ride for long-distance travel. Here are some of the best used sedans for road trips, especially the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord.
Toyota Camry
In the city, Toyota Camry owners enjoy gets 10.7 L/100km while on the highway it manages an impressive 7.1 L/100km. Great for a 6-cylinder!
The Toyota Camry is renowned for its reliability, with many of our customers exceeding 300,000 kilometres without major issues. Its impressive fuel efficiency, averaging 9.0 L/100km city/highway combined fuel efficiency, makes it economical for long road trips.
With a spacious trunk and high safety ratings, the Camry is a dependable and comfortable option for cross-country journeys. The Camry's reliability score in recent years according to J.D. Power was an outstanding 88 out of 100, making it a dependable and trustworthy choice for long road trips.
Honda Accord
In the city, the Accord gets 8.1 L/100km while on the highway it cruises at 6.4L/100km.
The Honda Accord is known for its roomy interior, providing comfort for long-distance travel. Its fuel-efficient engine options reduce fuel costs during extended journeys; Honda Accord owners enjoy an amazing 7.4 L/100km city/highway combined fuel efficiency.
The Accord’s reliability and performance make it a top choice for road trips, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride. Especially notable is the Accord's reliability score, which in recent years according to J.D. Power was a strong 80 out of 100.
Best Used Minivans for Family Road Trips
Minivans are the ultimate family road trip cars, offering ample space, comfort, and convenience features. They provide plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making them perfect for family travel. Here are some of the best used minivans from our shortlist, from the Honda Odyssey to the Toyota Sienna and Chrysler Pacifica.
Honda Odyssey
In the city, the Odyssey gets 12.4 L/100km while on the highway it still manages a good 8.4L/100km —all while providing room for up to 8 people with highway-tested safety.
The Honda Odyssey is a top choice for family road trips, accommodating up to eight passengers comfortably. Its spacious interior, advanced entertainment features like an 8-inch touchscreen, and connectivity options like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay keep everyone entertained on long journeys.
With excellent fuel economy, the Odyssey ensures a smooth and enjoyable trip; Honda Odyssey owners enjoy 10.7 L/100km city/highway combined fuel efficiency. Also, the Odyssey's reliability score in recent years according to J.D. Power was an impressive 81 out of 100, making it a trusted and dependable choice for family road trips.
Toyota Sienna
The Toyota Sienna, with its hybrid powertrain, offers impressive fuel efficiency, perfect for long-distance road trips. Its family-friendly design includes easy entry and exit, along with standard safety features like blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.
The Sienna’s tech features, including a 9-inch touchscreen and multiple USB ports, ensure a connected and convenient travel experience. If you find a hybrid 2.5 L engine model, you can make the distance over the highway with 6.5 L/100km and still save money in the city, with only 6.7 L/100km city driving efficiency.
As for running reliably, the Sienna's reliability score in recent years according to J.D. Power was 73 out of 100, making it a reliable and trusted choice for family road trips.
Chrysler Pacifica
In the city, the Pacifica gets 13.8 L/100km while on the highway that gets down to 9.4 L/100km.
The Chrysler Pacifica is renowned for its family-friendly features and flexible seating configurations. Its Stow ‘n Go seating system allows seats to fold into the floor, creating more cargo space for luggage and sports equipment.
With advanced entertainment options and a spacious interior, the Pacifica ensures a comfortable and enjoyable journey for all passengers. And Chrysler Pacifica owners make good use of their 11.8 L/100km city/highway combined fuel efficiency.
Reliability is also something to consider. The Pacifica's reliability score recently according to J.D. Power was a passable 71 out of 100, making it a dependable and family-friendly choice for long road trips.
Best Used Electric and Hybrid Cars for Eco-Friendly Road Trips
For those prioritizing sustainability, electric and hybrid cars are excellent for road trips. These vehicles offer impressive fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, making them eco-friendly options. Here are the best used electric and hybrid cars from our shortlist, including the Tesla Model 3, Toyota Prius, and Hyundai Ioniq 5 or Ioniq 6.
Toyota Prius
In the city, Toyota Prius owners make good use of their get 4.1 L/100km but on the highway that goes up to 4.2 L/100km.
The Toyota Prius is renowned for its high fuel efficiency, 4.1 L/100km city/highway combined fuel efficiency, ideal for extended road trips. Its reliability and long-distance travel capabilities make it a dependable choice for eco-friendly adventures.
With its spacious interior and advanced safety features, the Prius is a practical and efficient option for road trips. As for keeping costs down, the Prius's reliability score over the last few years, according to J.D. Power, was a decent 74 out of 100.
Ioniq 5
In the city, the Ioniq 5 gets 1.9 L/100km but on the highway that goes up to 2.5 L/100km.
Used Hyundai electric vehicles like the Ioniq 5 offers balanced performance and impressive efficiency. This vehicle, known for its exceptional range, achieves around 2.1 L/100 km in gas-efficiency equivalence.
Their comfortable ride and responsive handling make them favorable for long-distance travel. With advanced safety features and spacious interiors, the Ioniq 5 ensures a smooth and enjoyable trip.
the Ioniq 5's reliability score in recent years according to J.D. Power was 70 out of 100, making it a reasonably dependable choice for long-distance travel.
Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 stands out for its full self-driving capability and impressive electric range, making it a top choice for cross-country road trips. Advanced technology features, including a high-resolution touchscreen and over-the-air software updates, ensure a modern and convenient driving experience.
The Model 3 combines efficiency with cutting-edge tech, ideal for long journeys. The Tesla model 3 famed for pioneering range, achieves around 1.8 L/100 km in gas-efficiency equivalence. the Tesla Model 3's reliability score in recent years according to J.D. Power was a decent 74 out of 100, making it a dependable choice for long-distance travel. Sell or trade your Tesla to Sunridge Auto!
Tips for Preparing Your Used Car for a Cross-Country Road Trip
Preparing your used car for a road trip ensures a successful road trip. From vehicle maintenance to packing essentials and route planning, these tips help you get ready for the adventure ahead.
Vehicle Maintenance Checklist
A pre-trip service checkup by a professional is essential. This includes inspecting brakes, transmission fluid, and tire condition and tread. You can potentially avert disaster by checking tire pressure and all fluid levels, including oil, coolant, and brake fluid. Ensuring all vehicle lights are operational is also important for night driving safety.
Getting a tune-up at least two weeks before the trip allows time to address any major issues found during the inspection. As our service advisors say, taking proactive step today, can prevent breakdowns and ensure your car is ready for the journey.
Packing Essentials
Packing the right essentials can make your road trip adventures more enjoyable. Make sure to pack snacks and beverages to keep everyone energized. A car survival kit, including tools like screwdrivers, wrenches, and a flashlight, can be a lifesaver for unexpected situations.
Route Planning and Navigation
Effective route planning and navigation are vital for a comfortable and enjoyable journey. When planning your route, include stops for rest, meals, and sightseeing to break up the trip and keep everyone refreshed.
Utilizing navigation tools and apps can help you find the best scenic routes and avoid traffic, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable road trip adventure. Did you know? Ford vehicles have an off-road navigation app in case you'd like to go off the beaten path.
Visit Sunridge Auto to Buy Your Next Used Car for a Road Trip
Sunridge Auto is a great place to find used cars of different body styles, and multiple model years. It's where you can find a vehicle that fits any lifestyle including that of a cross-country road trip.
Choosing the right car is a big part of a successful road trip across Canada, whether you prefer an SUV, sedan, minivan, or an eco-friendly hybrid or EV.
If you're feeling overwhelmed that's okay. There's certainly a lot to consider between comfort and convenience features, fuel efficiency rates, cargo space, and reliability scores—but your sales advisor can help you make sense of the numbers and how they relate to your needs. And don't worry about prices; if you finance your next vehicle, its reliability and fuel economy make it well worth the investment.
With the right preparation and vehicle, you can embark on your next adventure with confidence and create unforgettable memories. So, gear up, plan your route, and hit the road for an epic journey! Choose from our list of long-range vehicles and line up some test drives today!