The other day, I wrote about road trip destinations and making your own fun close to home, and it seems NADA (National Automobile Dealers Association) had been thinking along those same lines, recently releasing their top picks for the Best Road Trip Cars for an 800 mile round trip based on fuel efficiency and a smooth and comfy ride along the open road - and if you don’t own one of the following vehicles on the list, don’t despair - you can always rent one for the weekend just for fun!  

Note: The following figures are based on automatic transmission and EPA-estimates which combine fuel economy for the smallest engine and the national average for regular unleaded fuel ($4.08) for the week of June 23, 2008.

2008 Toyota Prius Hybrid

The Prius was chosen for its ability to scoot down the road without breaking your pocketbook at the pump. With a fuel economy of about 46 mpg, the Toyota Prius can go about 800 miles on approximately $71.00.  It also offers nice cargo space and legroom for backseat passengers.

2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid

While the Chevy Malibu seats a family of four quite nicely with enough leg and elbow room all around, the new Malibu Hybrid, at about 25 mpg, will get you an 800 mile trip for approximately $131.00.

2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder

Like to hit the road with the wind in your hair?  If so, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder Convertible is for you. Fun fuel economy for two, couples will have a blast blowin’ down the highway.  This little bug will get you 800 miles of fun and sun for about $148.00

2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible

Another wise choice for fun, the Sebring Convertible can seat four comfortably with enough trunk space to store a few golf bags, beach blankets and vacation souvenirs.  This fun ride will get you 800 miles for about $142.00.

2009 Dodge Journey

For the crossover minded, the Dodge Journey is a nice little contender with enough room for seven, so Grandma and Grandpa or all of your besties can join the fun. The Journey has hidden storage bins to keep surprises or personables out of site – or can be used as coolers, so bring on the ice and your favorite road trip beverages.  The Dodge Journey will get you there and back – up to 800 miles round trip – for about $155.00.

2008 Cadillac Escalade

For those who like to go big, the Cadillac Escalade offers passengers a chance to road trip in style. The power-assisted rear lift gate means easy access to cargo space so you don’t have to fumble around when your arms are full with all those beach bags and folding umbrellas. Expect to round trip 800 miles for about $233.00.

2008 Chevrolet Corvette

Another great choice for two, the Chevy Corvette offers a smooth and sporty ride.  You can cruise the highways and venture off the beaten path - all 800 miles of it - for about $181.00.   

2008 Audi Q7

Seating for seven in the lap of luxury, the Audi Q7 offers awesome BOSE Surround Sound Audio, an “open sky” panorama roof and dual climate control.  You’ll go 800 miles in this gem for about 204.00.

The July 4th weekend is fast approaching.  Where will the road take you?

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