British Columbia is a province full of unique landscapes and exciting opportunities for anyone looking for an amazing road trip for anyone who wants to see the world, whether that’s the wild coastline, the towering mountains, the verdant forests, or the bustling cities.
However, you’ll need a vehicle that can handle any kind of terrain, weather, or challenge in order to fully appreciate British Columbia.
For this reason, we have compiled a list of the top SUVs for driving around British Columbia, taking into account criteria such as speed, comfort, safety, and gas mileage. These SUVs will make getting there almost as fun as arriving.
Finding the Right SUV for Your British Columbia Road Trips
If you want to travel around British Columbia, Canada by car, you might be wondering whether or not an SUV is the best choice for you. The space, comfort, and adaptability of an SUV are just a few of the ways in which it excels over other vehicle types.
SUVs have benefits, but they also have drawbacks, such as increased fuel consumption, expense, and negative effects on the environment. To help you decide if an SUV is the right vehicle for your BC travels, we’ve provided the following considerations:
How far you travel and how long your trips last
A SUV can accommodate more people, luggage, and cargo for long-distance or multi-day trips. In addition to being more versatile than a sedan or hatchback, an SUV can also handle a variety of terrains and weather.
On the other hand, if you are only going to take short trips or if you are going to stay in urban areas, an SUV may be wasteful and unnecessary.
SUVs use more fuel than smaller cars, which can increase costs, especially for frequent travelers. SUVs’ larger size and weight increase carbon emissions, harming the environment. If you make short, daily city trips, a smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicle may be better.
Road quality and accessibility
British Columbia is home to a wide range of roadways, from paved highways and scenic byways to gravel and dirt paths. Most of these roads are suitable for an SUV, and especially one with four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
When driving through rough terrain or bad weather, an SUV’s larger size can provide added comfort and safety. If you want to take a road trip through the Rocky Mountains in British Columbia, you’ll want to get yourself a SUV with four-wheel drive so that you have more control and traction on the rough terrain.
Some roads, such as those with low overpasses or tunnels, may be off-limits to trucks and other large vehicles. Before deciding on a route, you should research the current road conditions and any relevant regulations.
The places and things you want to do and see
British Columbia is home to a wide variety of breathtaking landscapes and exciting outdoor activities, including mountainous regions, lakes and glaciers, rocky beaches, ski resorts, and natural hot springs.
Bears, whales, and eagles can be seen in their natural habitats in British Columbia. British Columbia has so much to offer that planning your itinerary will be an adventure. BC has something for everyone, whether you want to hike through lush forests, kayak in clear waters, or ski for thrills. These locations may be off the beaten path or require higher ground clearance or traction, which an SUV can provide.
The province is also known for its vibrant cities, such as Vancouver and Victoria, where you can explore cultural attractions, dine at world-class restaurants, and experience a bustling nightlife.
However, those areas might be easier to reach by taking public transportation or on foot.
What SUVs are best for road trips across British Columbia?
If you are thinking about travelling across British Columbia, Canada by car, you might want to take a look at some of the best SUVs available for such an adventure. There is an SUV that can meet your needs and preferences, whether you’re looking for luxury, comfort, space, or fuel efficiency. /
Acura MDX
The Acura MDX is a redesigned mid-size SUV that debuted for the 2022 model year after undergoing the redesign process. It has an elegant and roomy interior, a strong and refined powertrain, and numerous cutting-edge safety and technology features. In addition, a hybrid version is available, which improves both efficiency and speed.
The MDX can seat seven people, making it ideal for your trips with the family and large groups. High-quality materials and comfortable seating make the interior luxurious and enjoyable. Its responsive and agile handling makes the MDX fun to drive on city streets and winding mountain roads. The Acura MDX is a top choice for adventurers looking for a versatile SUV with great performance, comfort, and technology.
Gensis GV80
New for 2020 is the Genesis GV80, a high-end sport utility vehicle. It has an attractive exterior, a luxurious interior with premium materials, and adaptive suspension for a smooth ride. A third-row seat and large cargo capacity are also available.
The Genesis GV80’s turbocharged four-cylinder and twin-turbo V6 engines provide enough power for city and highway driving. Advanced safety features like forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring make driving safe. Tech-savvy, the GV80 has a user-friendly infotainment system, smartphone integration, and a surround-view camera system for visibility. The Genesis GV80 is a top SUV for luxury and capability and one of the best for long journeys.
GMC Yukon Denali
You can fit up to eight people inside a GMC Yukon Denali or Ultimate Denali, and you can tow up to 8,400 pounds with either of these full-size sport utility vehicles. They have a strong V8 engine, a luxurious interior, and a commanding exterior. In terms of technology, they come equipped with a rearview camera mirror, an adaptive air ride suspension, and a head-up display that measures 15 inches.
The GMC Yukon Denali and Ultimate Denali provide exceptional ride and handling. These SUVs are a cut above the rest thanks to their sophisticated styling and meticulous attention to detail. Inside, you’ll find a space that’s equal parts comfort and practicality. From the high-quality leather upholstery to the cutting-edge entertainment options, everything inside is geared toward making your road journey easier. The Yukon Denali’s capabilities are outstanding. It’s perfect for daily driving thanks to its speedy V8 engine and ability to tow.
Hyundai Palisade
The Hyundai Palisade is a midsize SUV that offers room for up to eight passengers. It rides smoothly and quietly and has a sophisticated and roomy interior. There’s plenty of room for cargo, and it comes standard with advanced safety technology like blind-spot monitoring, wireless charging, and a smart liftgate.
The Hyundai Palisade provides a sophisticated ride due to its roomy interior and high-end features. The interior is well-designed and features high-quality materials and contemporary technology that significantly improves comfort and convenience.
The Palisade is well-suited for both city and highway driving thanks to its cutting-edge safety features and potent V6 engine. The Hyundai Palisade is a great SUV for both short trips around the Lower Mainland and cross-BC adventures.
Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson is a redesigned compact SUV for the 2022 model year. It has a futuristic design that stands out, a sleek and contemporary interior, and nimble and responsive handling. For even better mileage and speed, you can choose between two hybrid powertrains: conventional and plug-in.
Many consumers find the Hyundai Tucson to be an accommodating SUV. The Tucson can serve as either a comfortable and economical daily driver or a capable and exciting off-road vehicle no matter what your road trip journey is.
The Tucson may look small from the outside, but it can comfortably seat five adults and their luggage. Its small stature makes it perfect for manoeuvring through and parking in urban areas.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a midsize SUV that combines rugged off-road performance with refined highway travel. It has a tough and recognizable exterior, a comfortable and adaptable interior, and multiple engine choices to meet a variety of trip journeys. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and the Uconnect infotainment system are just a few of the advanced technologies and safety features it offers.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee has earned a reputation for its roomy interior and ability to transport a sizable party along with all of its gear. This midsize SUV can comfortably transport up to five adults and offers plenty of space for everyone. The Grand Cherokee’s smooth and comfortable ride makes it a great option for both weekday commutes and weekend road trips, whether you’re hitting the dirt or the pavement.
Kia Sportage
When it comes to compact SUVs, the Kia Sportage strikes a nice balance between affordability, good looks, and useful features. It rides smoothly and steadily, has a pleasant interior, and looks great on the outside. In addition to a roomy trunk for your trip gears, it comes standard with advanced safety features like lane departure and blind-spot monitoring.
Both a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder are available for the Kia Sportage. Both choices are eco-friendly and have sufficient power for daily use. The Sportage’s all-wheel-drive system enhances its handling and traction on a variety of roads. The Kia Sportage is a compact SUV that combines utility and good looks.
Lexus NX
The Lexus NX is a compact luxury SUV that excels in all three areas in equal measure. It has a smooth and powerful engine, a plush and roomy interior, and a sleek and sophisticated exterior. Better gas mileage and fewer emissions are possible with the hybrid model.
The interior of the Lexus NX is outfitted with high-end materials and state-of-the-art technology, guaranteeing both quality and attention to detail. Seats that provide adequate back support make long car trips more bearable.
Thanks to advanced soundproofing, the Lexus NX provides a serene and peaceful drive. Its impressive features include a potent engine and agile handling which is perfect for the long drive across the province. The hybrid model is enticing to eco-conscious motorists due to its improved fuel economy. Luxury, performance, and efficiency combine to make the Lexus NX a leading compact luxury SUV.
Mazda CX-50
New for 2023, the Mazda CX-50 will be a compact sport utility vehicle. The Mazda3 sedan served as inspiration for the sleek and sporty exterior design. The interior will be luxurious and roomy, with high-end fixtures and fittings. Mild hybrid technology and a turbocharged engine should make it quite fuel-efficient.
The Mazda CX-50 will be an attractive choice for environmentally conscious customers seeking a compact sport utility vehicle. This sleek and powerful vehicle is set to debut in 2023, showcasing Mazda’s dedication to fusing performance and efficiency.
The CX-50’s exterior design will exude sophistication and sportiness like that of the Mazda3 sedan. On the inside, passengers will find a luxurious and roomy cabin outfitted with high-tech amenities. The CX-50 is also expected to come standard with a turbocharged engine that uses mild hybrid technology.
Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is a top seller in Canada among small sport utility vehicles. Its exterior is adaptable and practical, while its interior is spacious and comfortable, and its performance is responsive and dependable. It also comes in a number of different trim levels and styles, such as the hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and Trail/TRD Off-Road trim levels, among others.
The Toyota RAV4’s wide range of available options makes it suitable for a wide range of drivers and their road trip needs. The hybrid model, in particular, has garnered praise for its exceptional efficiency on both fuel and the environment.
The RAV4’s hybrid powertrain is state-of-the-art, allowing for a smooth transition between electric and gasoline power for improved efficiency and lower emissions. The plug-in hybrid goes even further by providing a greater range of electric power alone, making it a great option for eco-conscious motorists.
Conclusion
These SUVs are among the finest for road trips across British Columbia, Canada. They can meet your needs for a travel vehicle in terms of comfort, convenience, safety, performance, and space. These SUVs are ready for any adventure, whether you’re driving around town or heading out into the wilderness.
Because of their spacious interiors and adaptable seating arrangements, they can transport both people and goods. These SUVs are widely regarded as the most convenient and comfortable means of transportation throughout BC and the rest of Canada.
1 thought on “10 Best SUVs for road trips across BC”