Best Cars for Weekend Getaways and Camping Trips

Introduction: Why Choosing the Right Vehicle for Your Weekend Getaway Matters

Australia is built for adventure—coastal drives, outback treks, mountain escapes, and rugged bushland all make perfect backdrops for unforgettable weekends. But not every vehicle is suited to handle the combination of distance, off-road conditions, luggage, and comfort.

Whether you’re heading off for a camping trip to the Grampians, a beach getaway in Byron Bay, or a 4WD adventure through the Kimberley, your vehicle needs to deliver:

• Spacious interiors for people and gear

• Comfort for long drives

• Off-road capability (for unsealed roads or trails)

• Strong towing power (if you're hauling a camper or boat)

• Fuel efficiency for those long hauls

Let’s explore the best cars for weekend getaways and camping trips in Australia for 2025.

1. Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series – The King of the Outback

Why it's perfect:
When it comes to conquering tough terrain while keeping the family comfortable, few vehicles match the LandCruiser 300. With a twin-turbo V6 diesel, full-time 4WD, and impressive ground clearance, it’s built for Aussie adventures.

Key Features:

• 3.3L twin-turbo V6 diesel engine

• 3500kg towing capacity

• Crawl control and multi-terrain select

• Seating for 7, plenty of luggage room

• Robust off-road suspension

Best For:
Serious outback and bush camping, long-distance touring, towing trailers or caravans.

2. Subaru Outback AWD Touring – Versatile and Capable

Why it's perfect:
Blending the comfort of a wagon with mild off-road chops, the Outback is an excellent choice for road trips and light trails. Symmetrical all-wheel drive ensures control on gravel or wet roads.

Key Features:

• 2.5L Boxer engine or turbocharged XT variant

• Symmetrical AWD

• 2000kg towing capacity

• Large cargo space with flat-fold seats

• Roof rails with tie-downs

Best For:
Couples or small families heading to forest campsites, beach stays, or alpine towns.

3. Ford Everest Platinum – Luxury Meets Off-Roading

Why it's perfect:
Based on the rugged Ranger platform, the Everest Platinum packs premium touches like massaging seats and a panoramic sunroof. It still handles dirt roads, river crossings, and towing with ease.

Key Features:

• 3.0L V6 turbo-diesel

• 4WD with terrain management

• 3500kg towing capacity

• Third-row seating

• Adaptive cruise and lane assist

Best For:
Larger families wanting comfort without sacrificing ruggedness.

4. Mazda CX-90 D50e GT – The Diesel Hybrid That Surprises

Why it's perfect:
This all-new SUV from Mazda combines a mild-hybrid diesel engine with luxury finishes and a spacious third row, making it ideal for longer drives without hurting fuel economy.

Key Features:

• 3.3L inline-six diesel mild hybrid

• AWD with off-road mode

• Premium interior finish

• Fuel-efficient for long-distance travel

• Advanced safety tech

Best For:
Those wanting refinement, towing ability, and diesel economy.

5. Jeep Wrangler Rubicon – Built for Real Off-Roading

Why it's perfect:
If you’re looking for a pure off-road camping vehicle that eats up trails and creek crossings, the Wrangler Rubicon is hard to beat. Removable roof and doors make it perfect for summer weekends.

Key Features:

• 4x4 rock-trac system

• Front and rear locking differentials

• Detachable roof panels

• 2-door and 4-door options

• 285mm ground clearance

Best For:
Adventure seekers heading far off the beaten path.

6. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid – Efficient and Practical

Why it's perfect:
With hybrid fuel savings, generous boot space, and light off-road ability (on AWD variants), the RAV4 is great for budget-conscious families looking to get out of town.

Key Features:

• 2.5L hybrid system

• AWD (on certain trims)

• Over 580L boot space

• 5-star ANCAP safety rating

• Excellent fuel economy (~4.8L/100km)

Best For:
Urban dwellers who love weekend escapes.

7. Mitsubishi Pajero Sport – Affordable 4x4 With 7 Seats

Why it's perfect:
This diesel-powered SUV is one of the most cost-effective full-sized 4WDs with low-range gearing and excellent clearance—perfect for tough tracks or towing a camper trailer.

Key Features:

• 2.4L turbo diesel

• Super Select II 4WD system

• 3100kg towing

• 7-seat configuration

• Competitive pricing

Best For:
Families wanting value-packed off-road capability.

8. Volkswagen California Beach – Camper Van Bliss

Why it's perfect:
What if your car is your campsite? The California Beach is a factory-built campervan with pop-up roof, sleeping quarters, table, and optional kitchen. It’s a weekend-ready motorhome.

Key Features:

• Diesel engine with DSG gearbox

• Electric pop-up roof with bed

• Swivel seats and fold-out table

• Optional fridge, stove, and awning

• Built-in camping electronics

Best For:
Van life enthusiasts and couples who want a camper without towing.

9. Isuzu MU-X – Tough Towing SUV

Why it's perfect:
Isuzu's MU-X is a go-to for caravanners and campers alike. Its truck-based frame, 3.0L turbo diesel, and genuine 4WD make it a powerhouse on trails or highways.

Key Features:

• 3.0L diesel engine

• 3500kg towing capacity

• Hill descent control

• 7-seater with large cargo space

• Fuel efficiency around 8L/100km

Best For:
Caravan owners or large families heading remote.

10. Kia Sorento AWD – Comfort-Focused Family Tourer

Why it's perfect:
This stylish and tech-rich 7-seater offers multiple powertrains, including diesel and hybrid, giving weekenders the choice of fuel efficiency or torque for towing.

Key Features:

• AWD diesel or hybrid

• Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto

• Smart cruise and safety features

• Spacious 7-seat layout

• Roof racks and towing options

Best For:
Tech-savvy families who road trip often.

What to Consider When Choosing a Car for Weekend Getaways

✅ Cargo Space

Look for a boot capacity of 500L+ to fit tents, bags, coolers, and chairs. Fold-flat rear seats are a bonus.

✅ Fuel Efficiency

Opt for hybrids or diesel engines for long-distance economy. EVs are fine for city getaways with charger access.

✅ AWD or 4WD?

AWD works for gravel roads and light dirt trails. 4WD with low range is best for sand, mud, and rock crawling.

✅ Roof Racks and Tow Capacity

If you carry a rooftop tent, bike, kayak, or tow a small trailer, check factory tow ratings (ideally 1500–3500kg) and roof load limits.

✅ Safety Tech

Modern systems like lane keep assist, AEB, adaptive cruise, and blind spot monitoring make long journeys less fatiguing and safer.

Honorable Mentions

• Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid – Efficient AWD for family escapes

• LDV D90 Executive – Affordable 4x4 with a luxurious cabin

• Skoda Kodiaq Sportline – Euro comfort with road trip range

• Suzuki Jimny XL 5-door – Compact off-road charm with more space

• Tesla Model Y Long Range – For EV lovers on sealed scenic routes

Final Thoughts: Matching Your Car to Your Adventure

Whether you’re after off-grid camping in Kakadu, scenic drives through the Snowys, or lazy weekends by the Gold Coast, choosing the right getaway vehicle is crucial to a stress-free trip. Make sure your car is:

• Capable of handling your planned routes

• Big enough to carry all passengers and gear

• Efficient enough for distance

• Safe and tech-loaded for modern convenience

From rugged 4x4s to hybrid family SUVs and even built-in campers, there's a perfect weekend companion waiting for your next adventure.

If you're looking for real-world reviews, test drives, and ownership tips on these models, keep checking back on carsoop.com.au—your go-to for all things Aussie motoring.