There’s nothing quite like a road trip. It’s a way of exploring some of the more spectacular stretches of the British countryside. More practically, it’ll allow you to string together stays in many different locations, many of which you might never have visited in isolation.
To get the best out of a road trip, you’ll need the right car. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of options.
What should you consider?
A good road-tripping vehicle should ideally come with a nice balance of virtues. It should be spacious enough to accommodate your luggage, while still offering plenty of legroom. After all, you’ll be spending long stretches in the cabin, and you’ll want to do so in comfort.
It’s also worth thinking about running costs, especially when you come to budget. You’re going to be putting in lots of miles in this vehicle, and minor differences in efficiency can add up.
Volkswagen Golf
The Golf has been a fixture among both family cars and premium hatchbacks. Now in its eighth generation, it comes in several different configurations, including hybrid options. If you’re just taking yourself and a few friends, and you don’t need room for many bulky items, it’s a sensible choice.
Volvo V90
If you’ve got a little more money to spend, and you’d like something a little bigger and more luxurious, then the Volvo V90 might appeal. It’s a big family estate in the same vein as the flagship cars from big-name German manufacturers. You’ll find a range of interesting touches around the interior, including an Android-based infotainment system.
Mercedes CLS
This is a turbocharged diesel vehicle for motorists who aren’t looking to compromise. It embodies luxury, coming even with special touches like air vents that glow red or blue depending on the setting of the temperature. Plus, it’s enormous fun to drive. You can pick up a used Mercedes for a relative pittance these days, especially with so many owners looking to make the switch to electric.
Land Rover Discovery
You might think of the Land Rover Discovery as an appealing option for when you’re heading right out into the wilderness. True enough, it’ll cope with just about any sort of weather and even the muddiest terrain. But it’s also just as luxurious as some of the other models we’ve mentioned here. Expect plush leather seats, comfort, and an elevated driving position.