Going on a highway trip to the hills? The right SUV will make for a safer, more comfortable, and much more enjoyable journey.
Not all cars are designed to take sharp turns, steep ascents or uneven hill roads. This is why renting the right SUV can make a significant difference.
These are the top 5 SUVs to rent for hill trips like Manali and Shimla, Nainital or any other.
1. Mahindra Thar – The Off-Road Icon
The Mahindra Thar is primarily known for its rugged design and exceptional off-road capability. It is ideal for a hill station where the terrain may be unpredictable.
Having a good ground clearance, a powerful diesel engine and a strong body, it handles narrow hill roads and rough patches very easily.
The load-carrying hardtop is easy to remove to make it great fun on sunny mountain days, while the robust climate control keeps you cool on steep inclines.
If you are an adventurer and class with Thar rent a tour a sure to be a fun-filled hill tour. It is also perfect for a solo traveller or small team outing.
2. Toyota Fortuner – The Comfort King for Long Drives
The Toyota fortuner is the epitome of luxury and power, which is why a trip to a hill station is always made in a Toyota Fortuner.
Never have to worry about the smooth cemented country roads because of its dependable diesel engine, roomy interior and comfortable suspension system.
A lot of cargo space would allow carrying trekking equipment, winter jackets and even camping equipment without any inconvenience.
The Fortuner has good vehicle stability and brake systems that give it extra safety when getting through sharp bends or descending through mountain roads.
Perfect when taking a family or a group on a journey that requires the convenience and strength in hills.
3. Mahindra Scorpio N – The Modern All-Rounder
Modern technology, the muscular looks, and the capability of conquering hills combine into a single SUV: the Scorpio N.
It has a 4×4 capacity, a new suspension set-up and a high seat position, which is an ideal gift for mountainous rides and uncharted tracks.
Riders find that the leg room is wide and the infotainment in the car is updated, this way all passengers are comfortable even on the long journeys.
Also, it has several types of drive, which will smoothly take you through the city streets and onto steep mountain roads.
In case you require a trusty but contemporary SUV to take on your next hill trip, the Scorpio N is the ideal car that you can rent.
4. Toyota Hilux – Tough, Spacious, and Unique
The Toyota Hilux is also adequate in the sense that, in case of plans to lug sports equipment, bicycles, or camping materials, all these can find their way with ease in the large deck and powerful engine.
It is perfect when it comes to icy roads because it can access areas on hills where other cars may find it challenging.
The high-quality chassis and traction control in Hilux make it easy to tackle steep, broken hill roads.
Its cool cabin keeps the driver and the passengers fresh even on long uphill routes.
An excellent option for a group of people seeking adventure, additional amount of luggage space, and unusual visibility on the road.
5. Maruti Jimny – Compact Yet Capable
The Maruti Jimny is not very big in terms of appearance; however, it is designed to be used in mountains and off-road situations.
It is very light in weight and small, thus easy to move through the narrow roads in the hill stations and crowded streets in town.
Its 4×4 system should not be underestimated, too; it does not mind rocks, mud puddles, and twisty turns.
The other advantage is its fuel efficiency, which keeps the expenses down on long hill excursions.
It is ideal with a couple, individual or small group of people desiring an exciting ride with a sleek and manoeuvrable SUV on hillside trips.
Why Choose an SUV for Hill Station Trips?
SUVs provide more clearance, more powerful engines and improved traction control systems that are necessary in steep, winding roads.
They have an additional luggage area to carry winter clothes, hiking equipment and souvenirs you carry with you on the way.
It is more secure to drive an SUV in the hills, as the weather can sometimes be awkward, or you could come across a bumpy road in some rural areas.
Tips for Renting an SUV for the Hills
When visiting snow or off-road areas, always make sure that the SUV is 4×4 or all wheel drive.
It would be advisable to book in advance, and more so during holidays, since the SUVs would be booked fast in popular hill stations.
Take important papers: a valid driving license, identity proof and deposit PAN card.
Ensure that the SUV includes a spare tyre, tools and new insurance to have peace of mind.
Before starting, always check basic functions: brakes, lights, AC and infotainment system.
Best SUV for Families
The Toyota Fortuner or Mahindra Scorpio N is spacious, comfortable, and completely suited to taking the family on a trip to the hills of the likes of Shimla or Mussoorie.
Kids and older family members are relaxed during long trips because they have large boot spaces and a stable ride.
Best SUV for Adventure Lovers
The Mahindra Thar or the Toyota Hilux would be one of the best options when you are going off-roading on the hills with camping, trekking, or off-road driving.
They provide excitement, edgy and extra confidence to rougher paths.
Best SUV for Couples or Solo Travellers
Maruti Jimny is a very light car and not expensive to hire, and can fit in the narrow, congested roads of the hill stations.
Its lightweight and traditional 4×4 touch are some charming features that make it ideal for a short journey.
Conclusion
Picking a good SUV will ensure that your road trip to a hill station is not only very safe but also comfortable and unique.
These five SUVs are stable travel vehicles for most people in India, due to their strength, reliability and comfort on steep routes to the mountain.
When you want to go on your next hill trip, don the best SUV rental experience, then you can always get in touch with Gagan Travels, which is relied upon in self-drive SUV rentals throughout the state of North India.
