Top 5 cars for car touring and camping

Top autotourism camping is a selection of cars that will make travelling in Russia comfortable and unforgettable. In 2025, when auto-tourism is gaining popularity due to the rise in airfares (by 15% per year), more and more Russians are choosing to travel to nature with tents or camping. What car is suitable for long-distance routes, off-road and overnight stays under the stars? I made a rating of five models, ideal for auto touring and camping, taking into account capacity, passability, economy and comfort. Based on owner feedback and expert reviews, I'll tell you why these vehicles are the best companions for your adventures.

What makes a car ideal for motoring and camping?

Top auto camping autotourism must meet strict requirements. Travelling in Russia is not only highways, but also unpaved roads, forest trails and remote campsites. According to Avtostat, in 2024, 60% car campers chose crossovers and SUVs for their versatility. Key criteria:

• Capacity: boot from 500 litres and spacious interior for 4-7 people.
• Permeability: ground clearance from 180 mm and all-wheel drive for off-roading.
• Cost-effectiveness: fuel consumption of up to 10 litres/100 km, so that you don't go broke on petrol stations.
• Comfort: comfortable seats, climate control and multimedia for long journeys.
  These parameters formed the basis of my rating. In addition, I took into account the actual experience of motor travellers discussed in social networks, where cars are praised for their reliability and versatility. Thus, the selection reflects the actual needs of travellers.

Why is car touring so popular?

In 2025, motor tourism in Russia is on the rise: according to RentRide, demand for renting SUVs for trips has increased by 20%. The reasons are freedom of movement, the ability to stop in any scenic spot and saving on hotels. For example, camping on Baikal or in Karelia costs 500-1000 rubles per night against 5000 rubles for a hotel room. But without a suitable car, travelling can be a challenge: from breakdowns on a dirt track to cramped interior. In the end, choosing the right car is the key to enjoying your trip.

Top 5 cars for car touring and camping

Top auto camping autotourism includes models tested on Russian roads and in camping conditions. Here are the five best options for travelling in 2025, with their pros, cons and indicative prices.

1. Toyota RAV4 (2019-2025)

Why the top? The Toyota RAV4 is a leader in the travel ratings thanks to its reliability and versatility. With a ground clearance of 197 mm and all-wheel drive, it can cope with light off-road terrain, and the 580-litre boot can hold tents, sleeping bags and equipment. The 2.5 petrol engine (199 hp) consumes 7-8 l/100 km on the highway, which is economical for a crossover. The interior is comfortable for four people, and multimedia with Apple CarPlay adds convenience.
Camping Bonus: the seats fold out into a flat floor, creating sleeping space for two.
PriceFrom 3.5 million rubles (new), 2.5-3 million (used, 2020-2022).
Minuses: stiff suspension on bumps, not for extreme off-roading.
For whom? Families or couples who value a balance of comfort and walkability.
All in all, the RAV4 is a reliable choice for travelling on trails and dirt roads.

2. Subaru Outback (2019-2025)

Why the top? Subaru Outback is an all-terrain station wagon with 213 mm ground clearance and permanent four-wheel drive, ideal for camping in the woods or mountains. The 2.5 engine (175 hp) consumes 7-9 l/100 km, and the 595-litre boot holds everything for a long holiday. Roof rails allow to install a box or a boat. Owners praise Outback for its stability on the motorway and confidence on off-road.
Camping Bonus: spacious interior and a flat floor with the seats folded down - almost a full bed.
PriceFrom 4 million rubles (new), 2.8-3.5 million (used, 2020-2022).
Minuses: expensive parts, not for narrow trails.
For whom? Active travellers ready for outdoor adventure.
So the Outback is comfort and drivability in one bottle.

3. Volkswagen California (2018-2025)

Why the top? Volkswagen California is a legendary camper, a real motorhome. Inside there is a bed, a kitchen with a cooker, sink and fridge, as well as a folding table and a shower. The 2.0 diesel engine (150 hp) consumes 7-8 litres/100 km, and the 190 mm ground clearance allows you to drive off the tarmac. California is ideal for camping without tents - everything is already built in. There are few such cars in Russia, but demand is growing.
Camping BonusThe liftable roof creates sleeping space for two, while the modular interior can be transformed to suit every need.
Price: from 5.5 million rubles (new), 4-5 million (used, 2019-2021).
Minuses: high price, difficult to repair in the regions.
For whom? Those who want the ultimate in comfort without hotels.
The bottom line is that the California is a car traveller's dream for those who value autonomy.

4. UAZ Patriot (2018-2025)

Why the top? UAZ Patriot is a budget off-roader for harsh conditions. Ground clearance of 210 mm and all-wheel drive with reduction gear make it the king of off-roading. The 650-litre boot can hold equipment, and the diesel engine (114 hp) consumes 9-10 l/100 km. Patriot is popular among fishermen and hunters for its simplicity and maintainability - spare parts are available everywhere. The 2025 model is appreciated for its price and endurance.
Camping Bonus: flat area in the boot for sleeping space, possibility to install a tent on the roof.
Price: from 1.8 million rubles (new), 1-1.5 million (used, 2019-2021).
Minuses: low comfort, noisy interior, poor dynamics.
For whom? Enthusiasts who are willing to endure spartan conditions for the sake of adventure.
Thus, Patriot is a choice for those who put cross-country ability above comfort.

5. Skoda Kodiaq (2018-2025)

Why the top? Skoda Kodiaq is a spacious crossover for family travelling. Ground clearance of 193 mm and all-wheel drive allow you to go on unpaved roads, and the boot for 650 litres (up to 2000 litres with folded seats) holds everything for camping. The 2.0 diesel engine (150 hp) consumes 5-6 litres/100 km, which is economical for long journeys. The interior with Simply Clever technology (gadget holders, curtains) adds to the cosiness.
Camping Bonus: padded second-row headrests for sleeping passengers and a flat floor for sleeping.
Price: from 3.8 million rubles (new), 2.5-3 million (used, 2019-2021).
Minuses: not for heavy off-roading, expensive parts.
For whom? Families looking for comfort and roominess.
All in all, the Kodiaq is the perfect balance of price, quality and versatility.

How to choose a car for car touring and camping?

Top auto touring car camping requires careful selection. Here are key tips based on reviews from car campers and experts:

1. Evaluate the routeThe California is good for off-roading: crossovers (RAV4, Kodiaq), off-roaders (Patriot, Outback). California is good for autonomous camping.
2. Check the capacity: a boot of 500 litres or more is a must. For example, the Kodiaq and Patriot offer up to 2,000 litres with the seats folded down.
3. Consider cost-effectiveness: diesel engines (Kodiaq, California) save up to 20% of fuel on long-distance routes.
4. Test the comfort: before buying, take a test drive to evaluate the seats and noise insulation. RAV4 and Kodiaq are praised for their ergonomics.
5. Check the history: for used cars use "Autocode" - 25% cars have hidden defects.
   In 2025, renting these autos through RentRide is also an option if buying is out of your budget. In the end, a clear plan and due diligence ensure a successful choice.

Typical mistakes

Auto travellers often make the mistake of ignoring:

• Permeability: sedans or low hatchbacks get stuck on unpaved roads.
• Capacity: a boot of less than 400 litres is inconvenient for camping.
• Reliability: rare models like exotic pickup trucks are difficult to fix in the backcountry.
  For example, in 2024 X discussed a case when a tourist got stuck on a parklet car in Karelia due to low ground clearance. In the end, take into account the actual conditions of the trip.

Forecast for 2025-2030

Auto tourism will continue to grow: by 2030, 30% Russians will choose road trips over air travel. Top autotourism car camping is evolving:

• Electric cars: hybrids like the Toyota Highlander Hybrid will become more popular, but there are still few charging stations in the regions.
• Campers: demand for California and analogues will increase by 15%.
• Chinese brands: Haval H9 with a ground clearance of 206 mm can enter the top at the expense of the price (from 3 million rubles).
  By 2030, used SUV prices will increase by 20% due to shortages. Bottom line, buying in 2025 is a wise investment.

Recommendations for car travellers

To make your trip a success, follow these tips:

• Get the car ready: do a full diagnostic before travelling. Oil change for RAV4 costs 6000 roubles, but saves you from breakdowns.
• Take a stockpile: fuel and water canisters are a must for remote campsites.
• Check the weatherIn Karelia or Altai the rains can wash out the roads - Patriot or Outback will cope better.
• Use gadgets: a navigator and a video recorder will simplify your route.
  Bottom line, preparation and the right vehicle is the key to a successful road trip.

Results: top auto touring camping 2025

The top camping cars in 2025 are the Toyota RAV4, Subaru Outback, Volkswagen California, UAZ Patriot and Skoda Kodiaq. They combine roominess, off-road capability and comfort, suitable for trails, dirt tracks and camping. The RAV4 and Kodiaq are ideal for families, the Outback for active travellers, the California for autonomy lovers and the Patriot for budget adventures. Choose a car based on your itineraries, check its condition and get ready to hit the road. In the end, these vehicles will make your holiday under the stars an unforgettable experience.