Summer is right around the corner. That means people are ready to set out and enjoy sunshine, warm weather, and the best of what the season has to offer. Whether your plans involve sticking to the local pool or traveling to a beloved coastal destination, there are a lot of ways you can choose to spend your summer. Regardless of where your plans take you, the right vehicle is a must for a fun-filled summer.
With so many different lifestyles, habits, and travel plans this time of year, some vehicles are better suited for the season than others. Before we spotlight some of our favorite summer-ready rides, let’s take a quick look at the different qualities that make a vehicle ideal for summer driving.
Factors to Consider
- Space: Whether it’s passengers, cargo, or a combination of both, you need room to accommodate it all comfortably.
- Entertainment: Modern technology and infotainment systems keep everyone connected, entertained, and engaged for the road ahead.
- Safety: Through the city or across long stretches of highway, driver assistance features help you stay aware, alert, and protected.
- Fuel Efficiency: Summer often means more time behind the wheel. A fuel-efficient vehicle leads to fewer stops and increased savings.
- Reliability: Peace of mind matters. When setting off from home, you need to know you can depend on your vehicle to get you to your destination and back.
Some vehicles excel in certain areas, while others provide a strong combination of multiple features. It all comes down to your priorities and what your plans demand. One thing is certain – the right ride is out there for you.
Chevrolet Suburban
The Chevy Suburban has a longstanding reputation as a go-to road trip vehicle, and it’s easy to see why. This full-size SUV can fit seven, eight, or nine passengers, depending on the configuration, while easily storing beach chairs, suitcases, and the rest of your summer essentials thanks to its class-leading 144.5 cu-ft of max cargo space. Available in six models powered by three different engine options, the Suburban possesses a max towing capacity of 8,300 lbs. So, don’t forget to include boats, jet skis, and your favorite watercraft in your summer plans. Inside, a spacious and comfortable interior features modern tech upgrades, including a 17.7-inch center touchscreen infotainment system that seamlessly integrates Google Built-In, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and other entertainment essentials. Add in 13 available camera views, HD Surround Vision, and more driver assistance features than ever before, and the Suburban can handle large families, long treks, and everything that comes with them.
Mazda CX-90
Mazda’s largest SUV, the CX-90, is sure to bring peace of mind to all your summer journeys. With three rows of highly configurable seating for six, seven, or eight passengers, the CX-90 can be as family-friendly as you need it to be. One area where the CX-90 excels is safety. Backed by Mazda’s i-Activesense package of innovative driver assistance and safety features, the 2025 CX-90 has earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ to go along with a Five-Star Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. A 25 mpg combined fuel rating is optimized by M-Hybrid Boost. Standard in all CX-90 models, this mild-hybrid system uses a small-voltage battery and electric motor to aid the gasoline engine and ancillary systems. For even greater efficiency, consider the CX-90 PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle), which delivers 490 miles of range and earned an Editor’s Choice Award from Car and Driver as one of the best three-row PHEV SUVs on the market.
Subaru Outback
Many people think you need a massive SUV for big-time performance, but the Subaru Outback disproves that theory. This two-row midsize SUV is fit for adventure and exploring thanks to its symmetrical all-wheel drive and 9.5 inches of ground clearance, unmatched by many other popular midsize SUVs. Plus, standard raised roof rails make it easy to transport cargo, outdoor gear, and equipment. Even with all that capability, efficiency isn’t sacrificed. The Outback delivers a commendable 29 mpg combined, and backing every mile is a reputation for long-lasting reliability. According to Subaru, 96% of their vehicles sold in the last ten years are still on the road today. Pair this with Subaru’s DriverFocus Mitigation System, which detects any signs of driver drowsiness or distraction, and the Outback is a dependable companion on the road.
Jeep Wrangler
Some spend their summers relaxing, while others chase adrenaline and off-road thrills. If you prefer the latter, the Jeep Wrangler is for you. Whether it’s a two-door or four-door, soft-top or hard-top, the Wrangler allows you to embody the open-air freedom of summer by removing its roof and doors. Few vehicles match the Wrangler’s off-road legacy. With a high-strength steel frame, underbody skid plates, electronic locking differentials, and a 47.4-degree approach angle, its Trail Rated engineering delivers consistent performance on any surface. Add 470 max hp and 50/50 split torque to the equation, and there’s no limit to where your summer adventures can take you.
Despite being highly rugged, the 2025 models are the most technologically advanced versions of the Wrangler yet. With a 12.3-inch Uconnect touchscreen display, built-in navigation, and high-strength Wi-Fi hotspot connection for up to eight devices, the Wrangler is just as equipped for comfortable rides as it is for navigating tough trails.
Honda Odyssey
Due to their comfort and people-hauling ability, minivans are true road trip warriors, and the Honda Odyssey leads the pack in transporting families on the go. Seating for up to eight passengers is highly adaptable thanks to Magic Slide Seats. This innovative feature allows the second-row seats to slide side-to-side and front-to-back, so you can arrange the configuration exactly how you need it. Parents, especially those of young kids, will appreciate their ability to monitor back-seat passengers with multiple cabin cameras and the CabinTalk PA system. Plus, keeping devices powered up is easy and hands-free with the Odyssey’s wireless charging pad. If boredom and restlessness are a concern, the Touring and Elite models include an upgraded rear-seat entertainment system that’s HDMI compatible with your favorite streaming devices. While comfort and convenience are king with the Odyssey, don’t let the minivan label fool you. Equipped with a V6 engine and 10-speed automatic transmission built with Honda-level quality and reliability, the Odyssey delivers a remarkable ride mile after mile.
Toyota Tundra
The third-generation Toyota Tundra debuted in 2022 with an eye-catching redesign that combines style with practicality and capability. The interior features a strikingly spacious cabin designed with a variety of premium materials and a smart, efficient layout. A massive center console and foldable rear seats offer ample storage space without compromising passenger comfort. Plus, with three available bed lengths (5.5, 6.5, 8.1 ft) and a 12,000-lb max towing capacity, there’s no limit to what you can bring with you this summer. Additional tow-specific features, such as a trailer backup guide with straight path assist, tow/haul drive mode, and an integrated trailer brake controller, are especially useful for those whose summer plans involve frequent trips to the boat ramp.
BMW 4 Series Convertible
Few vehicles capture the spirit of summer better than a convertible. The BMW 4 Series offers two core convertible models, the 430i and M440i. While each model has unique features and specifications, they both offer turbocharged power and the sharp, responsive handling you’d expect from a BMW. Plus, with 30+ mpg combined fuel ratings, they are just as efficient as they are exhilarating. The centerpiece is a soft-top roof that fully retracts in under 10 seconds at speeds of up to 30 mph. When up, it’s reinforced to block street noise and protect from weather. So, the open-air experience is always at your command. With seating for four, the 4 Series convertible may not be ideal for large groups or extended trips, but it’s perfect for solo escapes and getaways with your favorite travel companion. From sport-tuned performance to cutting-edge technology and luxurious finishings, BMW 4 Series Convertibles are fast, fun, and perfect for joyous summer rides.
Summer Starts Here
No matter what’s on the horizon this summer, the right vehicle can make all the difference. Take advantage of limited time offers during the Hendrick Summer Sales Event, including $0 down, payment deferral plans for up to 90 days, and available low interest rates. Going on now! Browse our nationwide inventory of over 30,000 new and pre-owned cars, trucks, and SUVs, and get behind the wheel of your perfect summer ride.
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