Summer’s coming, and with it the annual pull toward Muskoka, Prince Edward County, or wherever your favourite stretch of highway leads. If your current ride isn’t up for the trip, or you’re looking for something more comfortable, more reliable, or easier on gas for those long hauls, here are the used vehicles our team recommends.
For the Solo Driver or Couple
Honda Civic (2022-2024) — There’s a reason the Civic has been Canada’s best-selling car for over two decades. It’s comfortable on long drives, sips fuel at around 6.5 L/100 km on the highway, and the trunk is deceptively spacious. Reliable, affordable to maintain, and easy to find on the used market.
Toyota Corolla (2022-2024) — The Corolla doesn’t try to be flashy. It just works. Year after year, it delivers excellent fuel economy, a smooth ride, and the kind of reliability that lets you drive to Tobermory and back without a second thought. The hybrid version drops fuel consumption to under 5 L/100 km if you want to stretch every tank.
Mazda3 (2022-2024) — If you want a car that’s actually fun to drive on winding cottage roads, the Mazda3 is the pick. It handles better than anything else in its price range, the interior feels a class above, and fuel economy stays competitive around 6.8 L/100 km highway.
For the Family
Toyota RAV4 (2022-2024) — The RAV4 hits the sweet spot for families. Enough room for kids, gear, and a cooler in the back. Available AWD for those cottage roads that don’t see a lot of maintenance. The hybrid version brings fuel economy down to around 6 L/100 km combined, which is exceptional for an SUV.
Kia Sorento (2022-2024) — Need a third row? The Sorento offers genuine seven-passenger seating without jumping up to a full-size SUV. It’s well-equipped at every trim level, rides smoothly on the highway, and Kia’s reliability has improved dramatically in recent years.
Chevrolet Equinox (2022-2024) — A solid, no-nonsense compact SUV with a comfortable ride and plenty of safety tech. The Equinox is easy to live with day-to-day and handles highway driving with ease. It also tends to be priced well on the used market, making it a strong value pick.
For the Adventure Seeker
Subaru Outback (2022-2024) — Part wagon, part SUV, all capability. The Outback’s standard AWD system handles gravel roads, mud, and light trails without breaking a sweat. It’s the go-to for anyone whose road trips involve getting off the road. Ground clearance, roof rack, and a spacious cargo area make it built for adventure.
What to Look For Before You Go
Whatever you drive, get it checked before you load it up. Tires, brakes, fluids, and belts should all be in good shape before a long highway run. Our service team can do a quick pre-trip inspection so you hit the road with confidence, not anxiety.
Looking for your next road trip car? Come see what we have on the lot. We’ll help you find something reliable, comfortable, and priced right for summer.