2023 Kia Sportage with a dust trail behind it

Top three Kia vehicles for a road trip 

What Kia vehicle is a good choice for long family trips? 

We’ve narrowed down our list to the top three Kia vehicles for a road trip. Keep reading with Matt Castrucci Kia to learn why the Kia Forte, Carnival MPV, and Sportage are our top picks. Visit us in Dayton, OH, to view these models and more from Kia. 



The best Kia vehicle for long trips in terms of efficiency 

When it comes to long road trips with efficiency as a top priority, the Kia Forte is a strong contender. The Kia Forte is a compact sedan that delivers impressive fuel economy. Its standout feature is its highway mileage, achieving a remarkable 41 miles per gallon (mpg). This outstanding fuel efficiency means you’ll spend less time and money at the gas pump, making it a practical choice for those planning extensive journeys. 

2023 Kia Forte rear view in silver
steering wheel and touchscreen display of 2023 Kia Forte

The Kia Rio also deserves an honorable mention in this category. It offers the same fuel-efficiency rating of 41 mpg on the highway. However, it is smaller than the Forte.  

The best Kia vehicle for a family trip in terms of space 

When you’re planning a family trip and need ample room to accommodate passengers and cargo, the Kia Carnival MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) stands out as the ideal choice. The Carnival boasts best-in-class cargo and passenger space, making it a perfect fit for families with children, extended families, or anyone who appreciates roomy comfort on the road. 

2023 Kia Carnival MPV front and side view

With three rows of seating, it can comfortably accommodate up to eight passengers, providing enough room for everyone to spread out and enjoy the journey. Furthermore, its impressive cargo capacity means you can pack all the luggage, sports equipment, or camping gear your family needs without any worries. Its spacious interior and innovative seating configurations make it the go-to Kia vehicle for families who want plenty of space to spare. 

The best Kia for a road trip in terms of versatility 

The Kia Sportage offers a well-rounded package that caters to various road trip needs. First and foremost, the Sportage stands out with its off-road capability, making it an excellent choice for adventurers who enjoy venturing off the beaten path. Whether you’re exploring rugged terrain or taking a scenic detour, a capable all-wheel-drive system means you can handle diverse road conditions. 

2023 Kia Sportage side view in white
2023 Kia Sportage front seats and steering wheel

Additionally, the Sportage boasts class-leading cargo space for storing all your road trip essentials. Whether you’re carrying camping gear, luggage, or sports equipment, the Sportage has you covered with its ample cargo space. 

For environmentally-conscious individuals, the Sportage also offers a hybrid option. This reduces your carbon footprint and provides excellent fuel efficiency for long-distance travel, making it eco-friendly for road trips.