Hitting the Highway This Summer? Make Sure You’re Driving One of These SUVs

The countdown to summer is on. Only a couple of months stand between you and the road trip of a lifetime. If you’re planning your next highway adventure, you’ll want a vehicle that’s best equipped to handle anything the road tosses your way. A summer road trip requires a vehicle that can endure the elements—whether you’re heading out to explore nature or driving across the country to see the touchstones of Americana.

Many drivers in this circumstance opt for used vehicles—namely used SUVs—for the optimal intersection of utility and affordability. If you’re on the hunt for the right used SUV dealer, Zimmer Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram is here to catch your eye, with an inventory of road trip-ready SUVs designed to go the distance. So, when it comes to picking the best SUV for your summer road trip, you’ll want to take a closer look at this list of absolute winners.

Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is the ideal blend of ruggedness and versatility, setting it apart from the street scene’s other road trippers. Impeccable off-road credibility helps it traverse difficult terrain with certainty, while its spacious and accommodating interior is perfect for traveling with fellow adventurers and all of their gear. We recommend choosing models from 2021 and newer because you’ll be able to take advantage of some of the most exciting advancements in this model, with its larger, three-row L model able to facilitate even more on the inside. Opting for the Trailhawk model will allow you to forge ahead with confidence, especially when the terrain becomes unruly. Plus, with the sturdy, reinforced build we frequently see in Jeep models, the Grand Cherokee is a worthy explorer when your summer road trip takes you off the beaten path.

Kia Telluride

Bold, spacious, and beautifully appointed, the Kia Telluride is the ideal road trip companion, no matter how many miles you intend to clock behind the wheel this summer. With three rows and room for up to eight, this crossover SUV is ready to provide a can’t-miss ride, no matter where the road leads you. Choosing models from its debut year, 2020, will allow you to save even more money with this already affordable model, as well as take advantage of modern features to make your time on the highway more enjoyable. From a sophisticated infotainment system to elegant appointments, the ambiance inside the Telluride is modern and comfortable. With its spirited V6 engine at the helm of your adventure, you’re bound to enjoy every second you’re on the road. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that the Telluride is efficient, getting up to 26 MPG on the highway.

Chevy Suburban

As Chevy’s oldest nameplate, it’s no surprise that the full-size Suburban takes a spot on our list, with its cavernous interior cabin, incredible cargo capacity, and a series of top-performing engines capable of towing among the best in the business. When you’re carrying a full load of people and gear on your road trip, you’ll want to do so in a vehicle that can handle it, and the Chevy Suburban won’t let you down. The Suburban is kid-friendly, with loads of legroom and entertainment options, as well as geared toward your safety, with some of the industry’s most advanced safety features. If you want to take advantage of the Suburban’s newest redesign, we recommend checking out models from 2021, which feature its first independent rear suspension; this will help you trek through challenging terrain with agility. This model year also features its longest build yet, providing even more space inside.

Toyota 4Runner

If you’re searching for a great midsize option that can hold its own in any environment, the Toyota 4Runner is a top choice. This rugged SUV is perfectly capable of taking on the elements—and when you choose models from 2022, you’ll get to take this level of agility even further with the launch of the TRD Sport off-road-oriented trim. With adaptive dampers to enhance body control and plenty of sturdy elements inside and out, the 4Runner is ideal for those whose road trips will include excursions away from the pavement. With an optional third row and a flexible cargo area, the 4Runner’s functionality is evident, making it an outstanding choice for your next summer road trip.

Ford Explorer

Another three-row option that’s a tried-and-true pick for road trippers everywhere is the Ford Explorer, recognized for its tough and durable nature and a level of reliability you can only expect from Ford. Models from 2020, for example, feature a more comfortable ride quality with better handling and control while navigating the curves of the road. It also features a selection of incredible powertrains, including a hybrid in the mix, allowing you to harness unparalleled fuel efficiency during those long jaunts across state lines. The perfect family road tripper, the Explorer is offered in a myriad of trims to appeal to any budget, and it offers plenty of standard tech and safety features designed to keep you secure so that you can sit back and enjoy the ride.

Subaru Outback

Another rugged model you won’t want to overlook is the midsize Subaru Outback, which showcases standard all-wheel drive capabilities that will help you traverse rain-soaked streets and dusty trails with absolute ease this summer. If you really want to take your road trip to new levels of excitement, you’ll want to take a closer look at models from 2022, as this year introduced the ruggedly capable Wilderness trim. From increased ground clearance to all-terrain tires and a fine-tuned suspension, the Outback Wilderness is ready to make your summer adventures simply unforgettable.

Honda CR-V

You may be searching for a compact option that prioritizes efficiency while also offering an easy ride, which is exactly what you can expect in the Honda CR-V. This versatile SUV is ready for anything, with its roomy cargo hold, cozy interior, and smooth driving dynamics. Models from 2020 will allow you to take advantage of its most recent enhancements, including modern design elements, a hybrid powertrain for heightened efficiency, and advanced driver assistance features to help you achieve maximum confidence behind the wheel. With available all-wheel drive capabilities, plus impressive fuel economy of up to 40 MPG in the city with its hybrid model, the CR-V is ideal for those who want to hit the highway without worrying about taking time out to stop at a gas station.

Best SUVs for Summer Road Trips

So, whether your summer road trip consists of cross-country driving or wilderness exploration, there’s an SUV in the bunch that’s geared toward your needs. You’ll find exactly what you need here at Zimmer Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, with a used lot packed full of high-quality vehicles at affordable prices—that way you can put more money toward your next upcoming trip.

It’s time to set off on the adventure of a lifetime, and when you want to enjoy every moment of your journey, driving the right SUV is key. Stop by and meet with the Zimmer team to find exactly what you’re looking for to enhance your summer, all for a price that satisfies you. Remember, when you buy used, your options are endless, and you can get more features for less money, allowing you to invest more in the adventures you’ll make under this coming summer sun.