Whether you’re heading for the rugged peaks of the Highlands, the hidden coves of Cornwall, or a chic city retreat, the Great British staycation remains a classic way to explore. There’s something uniquely satisfying about packing up the boot and hitting the open road without the stress of an airport terminal.
As car enthusiasts, we know that the right vehicle is more than just transport—it’s the basecamp for your entire adventure. We’ve rounded up our favourite cars from across our 2026 line-up, specifically chosen to help you make the most of every mile this summer.
Best Luxury Family Car: Volvo XC90
If your family appreciates the finer things, the Volvo XC90 remains the gold standard for 2026. Following its major refresh, it now features a sleek 11.2-inch central touchscreen powered by Google technology, making navigation to that remote holiday cottage easier than ever.
Why it fits: It’s a true seven-seater with a cabin that feels like a Scandinavian lounge. The 2026 model offers a range of hybrid powertrains, including the T8 plug-in hybrid, which delivers a punchy 461bhp and up to 32 miles of electric-only range—perfect for quiet, emissions-free mornings in the countryside.
Best Car for Romantic Getaways: Mazda MX-5
For those sneaking off for a weekend for two, the Mazda MX-5 is still the undisputed king of the B-road. In a world of heavy electric SUVs, the MX-5 stays true to its lightweight roots, offering a pure connection to the road.
Why it fits: You can choose between the classic soft-top or the RF (Retractable Fastback), featuring a power-operated roof. The 2026 model includes an upgraded 8.8-inch infotainment system, but the real star is the 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G engine producing 181 bhp, which can whisk you from 0-62mph in just 6.8 seconds while returning a respectable 41.5 mpg.
Best Car for Adventurous Couples: Dacia Duster
If you and your partner prefer the path less travelled, the all-new Dacia Duster is your best friend. It has evolved into a much more rugged, “cool” adventurer without losing its famous value-for-money.
Why it fits: The 2026 line-up introduces the Hybrid 150 4×4, combining a 1.2-litre petrol engine with an electric motor on the rear axle. With a massive 1,149 litres of loading volume (seats down) and the clever “YouClip” system for attaching torches or tablets, it’s the ultimate basecamp for two.
Best Car for Adventurous Families: Toyota Land Cruiser
For the family that doesn’t just go on holiday but goes on an expedition, the Toyota Land Cruiser is the only choice. The latest “250 Series” model blends retro-cool styling with legendary reliability.
Why it fits: It’s a beast of a machine with a permanent four-wheel-drive system and a massive 3,500kg towing capacity. If you’re pulling a heavy caravan or a boat to the Lake District, the Land Cruiser’s 2.8-litre diesel engine handles the strain with ease.
Best Car for Scenic Routes: Ford Puma
The Ford Puma has been refreshed for 2026 with a sharper look and a much-needed interior tech boost. It’s the perfect car for those who enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
Why it fits: It retains the brilliant 80-litre MegaBox—a waterproof storage space under the boot floor that’s perfect for sandy beach gear or muddy boots. Inside, you now get a large 12-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen, while the mild-hybrid EcoBoost engines make those winding coastal roads both fun and efficient.
Best Car for Pet-Friendly Holidays: Peugeot 308 SW
An estate car is often a better shout for dogs than an SUV, and the Peugeot 308 SW proves why. Its low load lip means your four-legged friend won’t have to leap quite so high to get settled.
Why it fits: With a generous 608-litre boot (seats up), there’s plenty of room for a dog crate and your luggage. The 2026 model’s “i-Cockpit” remains one of the most futuristic interiors on the market, ensuring the humans are just as comfortable as the hounds.
Best Car to Camp In: Jeep Avenger 4xe
While the classic Wrangler is a legend, the Jeep Avenger 4xe is the clever 2026 choice for modern campers. It’s a compact 4WD hybrid that was practically built for the “outdoor” lifestyle.
Why it fits: The 4xe system uses two electric motors to give you all-wheel drive without the bulk of a traditional off-roader. It features washable seats (ideal for post-hike mess) and roof rails ready for a rooftop tent, making it a brilliant, agile base for the night.
Best Car for Weekend Getaways: CUPRA Leon Estate
If you want style, speed, and enough space for a set of golf clubs or a long weekend’s worth of shopping, the CUPRA Leon Estate is our top pick for 2026.
Why it fits: It’s a sharper, more “boutique” alternative to a standard estate. The 2026 e-HYBRID model offers an incredible electric-only range of up to 81 miles, meaning you could potentially do your entire weekend trip without using a drop of petrol, all while enjoying the Sennheiser™ 12-speaker sound system.
Best City Break Car: Abarth 500e Convertible
Cities can be hectic, but the Abarth 500e makes them a playground. For a city break in 2026, this electric hot hatch is the most stylish way to navigate the urban jungle.
Why it fits: Its tiny dimensions mean you’ll nab the parking spots everyone else has to pass by. The “Turismo” trim sounds like a petrol Abarth thanks to its unique sound generator, and with the convertible roof, you can enjoy the architecture of London or Edinburgh without even getting out of the car.
Best Electric City Car: Vauxhall Corsa Electric
The Vauxhall Corsa Electric remains a UK favourite for 2026, offering a familiar feel with cutting-edge tech. It’s the perfect companion for navigating ULEZ zones and city traffic.
Why it fits: The 2026 model offers a choice of two batteries: the standard 50kWh or the Long Range 51kWh, which provides up to 266 miles of range. If you need a quick boost, it can charge from 0-80% in just 30 minutes—perfect for a quick coffee break at the services.
Best Electric Car for Adventures: Kia Niro EV
If you want to go green without the “range anxiety,” the Kia Niro EV is a multi-award-winning choice that’s built for the long haul.
Why it fits: It boasts a very reliable 285-mile range and a practical 475-litre boot. The 2026 model comes with “Vehicle-to-Load” (V2L) technology, which literally turns your car into a giant power bank. You can plug in a coffee machine or a hair dryer right from the charging port while you’re parked up in the wilderness!
Your Favourite Staycation Car
We hope this updated 2026 guide helps you choose the perfect partner for your next UK adventure. We’d love to hear where you’re heading this year!
