April 2023
The 5 Best-Used Cars for a 2023 New Zealand Road Trip
New Zealand offers a breathtaking natural beauty that is perfect for road trips all year round. Whether you are planning a family vacation or a weekend getaway with friends, a car is the best way to explore New Zealand's diverse landscapes. However, it's important to keep in mind that the roads can be challenging, with winding roads, potholes, and one-way bridges. Unsealed local roads also require a suitable vehicle, especially since they can be narrow, poorly maintained, and feature sharp drops.
Thankfully, there are still plenty of cars that can handle New Zealand's roads and make your trip comfortable. The best-used cars depend on the type of touring you have in mind, but we have some recommendations that should do the trick.
2018+ Kia Sorento Premium
If you're traveling with a large group of people, the 7-seater Kia Sorento Premium is the perfect choice. This high-spec family SUV is often underrated compared to some equivalent cars from other similar manufacturers. However, the "Premium" model is the top spec and has a panoramic roof, heated front and back seats, ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, leather, 7 seats, and 4WD. With 7 seats and 4WD, it's perfect for the whole family and provides an opportunity for impromptu adventure, especially during the upcoming snow season.
2012+ Toyota 86
The Toyota 86 is an affordable and fun sports car that's perfect for a road trip around New Zealand. The engine in the front and driving the rear wheels is a very motorsport-focused layout, which is evident in its engineering from Subaru and Toyota, two world-leaders in motorsport. The 86 also has possible "future classic" potential, much like previous Toyotas such as the Supra, MR2, and to a lesser extent, the Altezza, which have gone on to see decent increases in collectability and prices worldwide. Take it away for a road trip and it's still nice to look at in the driveway.
2015+ Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland
If you're looking for a powerful SUV with off-road capabilities, the Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland is an excellent choice. It has a powerful V6 diesel engine and is very capable off-road. The high-spec version has a panoramic roof, heated front and back seats, ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, leather seats, air suspension, and more. Good examples can be had for $35-40k now, making it an affordable option for those seeking a comfortable ride for long trips with loads of comfort options.
2017+ Mitsubishi Outlander 4WD
The Mitsubishi Outlander is another excellent SUV for a New Zealand road trip. It has 7 seats, some options have leather, and various additional safety tech, and the 4WD system is decent enough for a random venture off the beaten track. It's also affordable, making it a great choice for families seeking an affordable family SUV.
2014+ VW Golf GTI
If you're looking for a hot hatch that handles like a go-kart, the VW Golf GTI is the perfect choice. It has a powerful engine and a well-balanced chassis with various clever traction & suspension tech to improve handling. Later-model / lower km examples are starting to be available for mid-20s, with some slightly higher-km or lower spec options for $20-22k. It's also a reliable car with affordable parts and servicing for a European car, and it can be tuned for more power/handling ability. It's perfect for longer road trips and loads of fun in fast corners.
These 5 best-used cars for a New Zealand road trip are guaranteed to provide an unforgettable experience. From the family-friendly Kia Sorento Premium and Mitsubishi Outlander 4WD to the sporty Toyota 86 and VW Golf GTI, and the rugged Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland, there's something for every traveler's needs and budget.
Ready for your next car?
If you are looking to buy a used car, check out Industry Motor Group. All these cars on our list regularly turn up in our showroom and our online catalogue.
If you are looking for something different, we have a wide range of high-quality, affordable used cars, in every class. Come to our Penrose or Takanini car dealer, and talk to our friendly sales team for help finding a car that is right for you.
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