Quick Overview
Summer in the San Fernando Valley means the open road is calling, whether it is a beach day in Malibu, a mountain escape to the Sierras, or a longer family adventure up the coast. A capable, comfortable SUV makes all the difference, and Ford’s SUV lineup has a model for every family and every trip. This guide walks through the best Ford SUVs for road trips, what makes each one a great fit, and a closer look at the family-favorite Ford Explorer, so you can find your perfect summer ride at Galpin Ford.
In this blog:
- What makes a Ford SUV great for summer road trips
- The family-friendly Ford SUV lineup, from Escape to Expedition
- A closer look at the Ford Explorer
- How to match the right SUV to your getaway
- Where to find your next family SUV near Woodland Hills
Why a Ford SUV Is Built for the Summer Road Trip
The right SUV turns a long drive into part of the fun. Ford’s SUVs pair the space and comfort families need with available technology that keeps everyone connected and safe, from the SYNC infotainment system with available wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ to the available Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of driver-assist features. Add generous cargo room, available all-wheel drive, and the capability to handle everything from the freeway to the trailhead, and it is easy to see why a Ford is one of the best SUVs for road trips. At Galpin Ford, families across Woodland Hills and the San Fernando Valley find the perfect fit in our new vehicle inventory.
The Ford SUV Lineup for Families
Ford offers a full range of SUVs, so you can match the size and capability to your family and your trip.
Ford Escape
Compact, efficient, and easy to maneuver and park around the city, the Ford Escape is a smart pick for smaller families and couples who want SUV versatility with great fuel economy, including available hybrid power for stretching every gallon on a long drive.
Ford Bronco Sport
Built for adventure, the Ford Bronco Sport combines rugged, off-road-ready capability with a practical, cargo-friendly design, ideal for families whose summer plans include trails, camping, and the great outdoors.
Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is the quintessential family road-trip SUV, with three rows of seating, abundant cargo space, and a refined highway ride. It is the sweet spot for most families, which is why it remains one of the most popular SUVs in the San Fernando Valley.
Ford Expedition
When you need maximum room and capability, the Ford Expedition delivers full-size space for big families, plenty of gear, and serious towing power, perfect for hauling everyone and a trailer to the lake.
Spotlight: The Ford Explorer
For most families, the Explorer hits every mark. Here is what makes it such a strong road-trip companion:
- Room for the whole crew: seating for up to seven passengers across three rows, with flexible cargo space behind the third row and much more with the seats folded.
- Confident power: a standard 2.3L EcoBoost engine producing an estimated 300 horsepower, with an available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 making an estimated 400 horsepower on sportier trims.
- Towing capability: the Explorer can tow up to an estimated 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, enough for a small trailer or watercraft.
- Trims for every taste: from the well-equipped Active and sporty ST-Line to the rugged Tremor, the performance-focused ST, and the luxurious Platinum.
- Family-friendly tech and safety: available SYNC infotainment, wireless smartphone connectivity, and available Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assist features.
If you have been searching for a Ford Explorer in the San Fernando Valley, our team can help you compare trims and find the right one for your family. Explore the Explorer lineup to get started.
Match the SUV to Your Getaway
Not sure which one fits? Start with the kind of trip you are planning:
- Beach days and city weekends: the efficient, easy-to-park Ford Escape.
- Trails, camping, and the outdoors: the adventure-ready Ford Bronco Sport.
- Classic family road trip: the three-row Ford Explorer.
- Big groups and towing: the full-size Ford Expedition.
Find Your Family SUV Near Woodland Hills
As a Ford destination serving Woodland Hills and the greater San Fernando Valley, Galpin Ford offers one of the largest selections around, plus a team that makes finding your next family SUV easy. Browse our new inventory online, schedule a test drive, or contact us to plan your visit before your summer getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Ford SUV for a family road trip?
For most families, the three-row Ford Explorer is the ideal balance of space, comfort, and capability. Smaller families may prefer the efficient Escape, adventurers the Bronco Sport, and large groups the full-size Expedition.
For most families, the three-row Ford Explorer is the ideal balance of space, comfort, and capability. Smaller families may prefer the efficient Escape, adventurers the Bronco Sport, and large groups the full-size Expedition.
How many people does the Ford Explorer seat?
The Ford Explorer seats up to seven passengers across three rows, with flexible cargo space that expands when you fold the rear seats, plenty for a family and luggage.
The Ford Explorer seats up to seven passengers across three rows, with flexible cargo space that expands when you fold the rear seats, plenty for a family and luggage.
How much can the Ford Explorer tow?
When properly equipped, the Explorer can tow up to an estimated 5,000 pounds, enough for a small trailer, boat, or other recreational gear. Towing capacity varies by configuration and equipment.
Which Ford SUV is best for off-road adventures?
The Ford Bronco Sport is built for trails and outdoor adventure, while available all-wheel drive and rugged trims like the Explorer Tremor add capability for families who venture off the pavement.
Where can I buy a Ford SUV near Woodland Hills?
Galpin Ford serves Woodland Hills and the San Fernando Valley with a large selection of new Ford SUVs. Browse our inventory online or visit us for a test drive.
Get Road-Trip Ready at Galpin Ford
This summer, hit the road in a Ford SUV built for the journey. Browse our new Ford SUV inventory, take a closer look at the Ford Explorer, or schedule a test drive today. Visit Galpin Ford in North Hills, proudly serving Woodland Hills and the San Fernando Valley, and find the perfect ride for your family getaway.
