Few things are as uniquely American as packing up the family car and hitting the open road. An adventure on our great Interstate system can lead you to sandy beaches, secluded mountains, or booming mega cities. Now that spring is officially here (though it seems that the Ohio weather gods didn't get the memo), spring break and summer vacations are being mapped out and planned around kitchen tables coast to coast.
If you're planning one of these excursions, and are also in the market for a new car, there are several choices out there right now that are better suited for your trip than others. We hit the books (well, internet) to come up with the best 5 road trip vehicles on the market right now.
Ford Mustang Convertible
2011 Ford Mustang Convertible
What is it? The most current edition of Ford's iconic pony car.
Perfect For: A young couple heading to a beach retreat, or any sunseeking couple who wants to pretend to be young.
Why We Like It: The Mustang droptop comes to the table with the segment's best mix of power, handling, fuel economy, and price. The V6 model delivers 300 horsepower, 31mpg highway, and a sticker price south of $28,000. Opting for the 5.0 V8 will get you 400 horsepower and 26mpg highway for only a few thousand more.
The Compeition: Chevrolet Camaro Convertible, Chrysler Sebring Convertible
Chrysler Town and Country
2011 Chrysler Town & Country
What is it? The latest rendition of Chrysler's topshelf minivan, sporting a new look, new interior, and new engine for the 2011 model year.
Perfect For: A multi-generational family trip to Orlando.
Why We Like It: The Town & Country finally got the engine and interior that the first-ever minivan deserved. Stow and Go seating and other handy features make a long trip with grandma, grandpa, and the kids as smooth as possible.
The Competition: Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Nissan Quest
Ford Flex
2011 Ford Flex EcoBoost
What is it? A full-sized crossover that looks different than anything else on the road, in a good way.
Perfect For: A family tip cross county, "National Lampoon's Vacation" style.
Why We Like It: Order this one up with quad seating, 2nd row console fridge, and multi-panel moonroof for the perfect family vacation cruiser. Industry best Navigation and SYNC technology makes road trips a breeze. If dad wants a little more oomph from the engine bay, upgrade to the twin turbo EcoBoost V6 motor. That will help him get around those pesky minivans clogging the freeway.
The Competition: GMC Acadia, Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot
Buick Lacrosse
2011 Buick Lacrosse
What is it? A great, full-sized boulevard cruiser from GM's Tri-Shield brand.
Perfect For: Empty-nesters making a weekend cabin getaway.
Why We Like It: The best Buick in decades, the Lacrosse delivers style and quality that outshines Lexus at a price you can't resist. Available E-assist mild Hybrid technology brings the MPG up to small car levels. OnStar might be easier for the over-50 set to use than some of the more complicated Navigation and Telematics systems out there.
The Competition: Ford Taurus, Toyota Avalon, Lexus GS, Lincoln MKS
Audi A3
2011 Audi A3
What is it? A compact 5 door hatchback, based on the VW Golf.
Perfect For: A long weekend trip to NYC. The 4 rings on the grille will help you blend in as a local.
Why We Like It: While hatchbacks are often shunned by American consumers, there are certain cases where they're the perfect car for the job. The A3's relatively generous cargo bay will easily hold a long weekend's worth of supplies, and the vehicle's small dimensions will save you money parking in the city (They charge double for SUVs. Seriously).
The Competition: Lexus CT200h, Ford Focus Titanium hatchback
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