When it comes to road trips, nothing beats the versatility and comfort of an SUV. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or planning a solo adventure, having a spacious and reliable vehicle makes all the difference. SUVs not only provide ample room for passengers and luggage but also offer advanced safety features, smooth performance, and impressive fuel efficiency in many modern models.
Buying a used SUV can be a smart choice if you want premium comfort without the premium price tag. With the right model, you can enjoy all the benefits of a road-trip-ready SUV while saving thousands compared to buying new.
If you’re considering making the switch, you can check out the wide selection of quality used SUVs in our inventory, book a test drive to experience them firsthand, or even apply for a car loan online to get pre-approved quickly.
Why SUVs Are Perfect for Road Trips
SUVs are designed for versatility. Unlike sedans or hatchbacks, they provide elevated seating for better visibility, generous cargo space for luggage, and advanced driving technology to handle long-distance journeys. Most importantly, modern SUVs blend power with comfort, ensuring that every passenger enjoys the ride.
Some key benefits that make SUVs ideal for road trips include:
- Ample Seating and Comfort: With seating for five to seven passengers, SUVs are perfect for families or groups. Many models feature plush interiors, reclining seats, and climate control for maximum comfort.
- Large Cargo Space: Road trips often require packing bulky items like camping gear, coolers, and suitcases. SUVs come with foldable rear seats to expand trunk space.
- Safety Features: From blind-spot monitoring to lane-keep assist, used SUVs often include high-end safety technology.
- All-Wheel Drive Options: Essential for trips that involve mountains, snowy regions, or off-road adventures.
Top Used SUVs for Road Trips
1. Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is a standout in the compact SUV category. Known for its dependability, the RAV4 offers excellent fuel efficiency while still providing ample interior space. Its comfortable seating and smooth ride make it ideal for long drives. Plus, Toyota’s legendary reliability means you can trust it on any adventure.
Road Trip Benefits:
- Impressive fuel economy
- Comfortable cabin with user-friendly technology
- Reliable and durable, even with high mileage
2. Honda CR-V
Another crowd favorite, the Honda CR-V, is one of the most versatile and family-friendly SUVs on the market. Its roomy interior and spacious cargo area make it perfect for hauling both people and gear. The CR-V also shines with its smooth handling and excellent resale value.
Road Trip Benefits:
- Spacious interior with generous legroom
- Top-tier safety ratings
- Smooth ride and dependable performance
3. Ford Escape
For travelers who want comfort and affordability, the Ford Escape is a fantastic used SUV option. It blends fuel efficiency with a roomy interior and comes loaded with tech features, depending on the trim. This makes it an ideal choice for tech-savvy drivers who love staying connected on the go.
Road Trip Benefits:
- Affordable pricing in the used market
- Plenty of high-tech features like SYNC infotainment
- Balanced handling for city and highway driving
4. Chevrolet Equinox
The Chevrolet Equinox strikes a balance between size, comfort, and capability. With its cozy interior, generous cargo space, and easy-to-use infotainment system, the Equinox makes long drives enjoyable for everyone. It’s also available in AWD for those who love venturing off the beaten path.
Road Trip Benefits:
- Comfortable seating for families
- User-friendly infotainment system
- Good balance of fuel efficiency and performance
5. Nissan Rogue
If you’re looking for a blend of modern design, comfort, and efficiency, the Nissan Rogue is worth considering. Its roomy cabin and excellent safety features make it a family favorite. The Rogue also offers decent fuel economy, which helps cut down costs on long trips.
Road Trip Benefits:
- Spacious cargo and cabin layout
- High safety ratings and driver assistance features
- Good fuel economy for long-distance travel
6. Hyundai Santa Fe
The Hyundai Santa Fe is ideal for road trippers who want a slightly larger SUV without stepping into a full-size vehicle. With a refined interior and lots of standard features, the Santa Fe offers a premium feel without the luxury price tag.
Road Trip Benefits:
- Stylish interior design
- Generous standard tech features
- Smooth, quiet ride
7. Subaru Outback
Although it straddles the line between SUV and wagon, the Subaru Outback is a go-to for road trip enthusiasts. With standard all-wheel drive and plenty of ground clearance, it’s perfect for outdoor adventures. Plus, it offers a spacious cabin and large cargo area, making it versatile for both city and wilderness trips.
Road Trip Benefits:
- Standard AWD for confidence on all terrains
- Rugged yet comfortable for off-road adventures
- Ample cargo space for gear
8. Kia Sorento
The Kia Sorento is an excellent option for larger families or groups. Offering three-row seating, this SUV can comfortably accommodate up to seven passengers. It’s packed with features, from advanced safety to a modern infotainment system, making long drives entertaining and safe.
Road Trip Benefits:
- Three-row seating for bigger groups
- Strong safety and reliability scores
- Comfortable and quiet highway ride
Tips for Choosing the Right Used SUV for Road Trips
When selecting a used SUV, it’s important to consider more than just brand or model. Here are some key factors:
- Space Needs – If you’re traveling with family or lots of luggage, choose a mid-size or full-size SUV. Compact SUVs are best if you want fuel efficiency.
- Fuel Economy – Long trips can add up in fuel costs. Look for SUVs with good mileage ratings.
- Technology – Features like navigation, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto can make trips more enjoyable.
- Safety – Ensure the SUV has essential safety features like backup cameras, blind-spot monitoring, and airbags.
- Budget & Financing – Don’t forget to factor in financing options and monthly payments. You can easily calculate what works for you with this car payment calculator.
Financing Your Road-Trip-Ready SUV
Buying a used SUV doesn’t have to strain your budget. Flexible financing options allow you to get behind the wheel faster and more affordably. At Car Loan Masters, you can:
- Apply for a car loan online in minutes.
- Explore low monthly payment options using the handy calculator.
- Even read guides like our post on how to get the best financing on a used hatchback to better understand how financing works across different vehicle types.
This way, you can plan your budget confidently and hit the road stress-free.
Final Thoughts
Road trips are about creating memories, exploring new places, and enjoying the journey as much as the destination. Having the right SUV can make all the difference. Whether you choose the dependable Toyota RAV4, the family-friendly Honda CR-V, or the adventurous Subaru Outback, the right used SUV will give you comfort, safety, and space for every mile ahead.
If you’re ready to find your perfect road-trip companion, start by browsing our used SUV inventory today. Don’t forget – you can easily book a test drive and apply for financing online to make the process simple and stress-free. Adventure is just around the corner, and your next road trip starts with the right SUV.