Top 10 Summer Road Trip Cars of 2009

Summer road trips with the family can be hard on both you and your car. Nerves get frazzled. Engines get overheated. And just about anything and everything can go wrong. Long family road trips are when you really discover your vehicle’s worth.

I’ve driven thousands of miles on hundreds of road test reviews with my big, loud and messy family in tow. We know when a car works well for long trips and when it doesn’t. Thinking about buying a 2009 model car for a summer road trip? See my Top 10 picks below.

Check out my recommendations on what features and options you need to build the perfect summer road trip car.

Leg Room: Never underestimate the importance of leg room when buying a new car. My family is a rather tall bunch, so we are always seeking vehicles that fulfill our need for comfort. Not only is cramped leg space annoying, but it is also unhealthy.

Dr. Kent Holtorf, who is the founder of the California-based Holtorf Medical Group, says the stress of driving as well as sitting down for long periods can “keep the vessels from dilating,” giving you a lower blood flow to the heart.

So, when you are buying a new car, make certain to test out each and every seat for total leg comfort. How can you tell if there’s enough room for your legs? If you can stretch your legs all the way without kicking your big toe into anything solid, then you’ve got a winner.

Cargo Space: Your car may work great for quick trips and commutes to work, but it doesn’t work well when it comes to cargo space. Summer road trips are especially tough as everyone wants to take extra equipment like boogie boards, coolers, skateboards and even bikes.

First off, make sure to buy a car with flat-fold seats. Seats that truly fold flat without any spaces are super convenient and helps avoid spills and accidents.

Next, if your are firmly set on buying a car, consider purchasing a hatchback. A hatchback trunk, especially if the car has 60/40 split-fold seats, really adds tons of square footage to any vehicle.

Rear Entertainment System: Thinking about plunking perhaps thousands of dollars for a rear entertainment system? Believe me, it’s worth it! My five-year-old daughter never stops talking except when she’s watching a DVD.

All-Weather Performance: While driving through a snowstorm on a family road trip, I discovered why advanced safety systems like all-wheel drive are important. These systems definitely lower your driving stress and keep your family safe.

Fuel Efficiency: Even with gas prices lower these days, it is still important to consider fuel efficiency. Gas can get expensive on long road trips, so think about buying a super fuel efficient, four-cylinder or hybrid vehicle.

Power Everything: Nothing is more convenient than power locks, doors, windows and seats. If you can afford it, don’t skimp on that power package!

Sheryll Alexander is a lifestyles writer based in Costa Mesa, Calif. Follow me! @sheryllalexande. Read more articles by Sheryll Alexander at Driving Smart.