The Scottish Highlands and Islands offer some of the most stunning landscapes in the UK, but driving here requires a vehicle that can handle winding roads, steep inclines, unpredictable weather, and even the occasional off-road track. Whether you’re a local or planning regular trips through this beautiful yet demanding terrain, choosing the right car is crucial.
What to Consider in the Highlands & Islands
When choosing a used car for Highland driving, consider the following factors:
- Ground Clearance – Higher ground clearance is useful for uneven and sometimes unpaved roads.
- All-Wheel or Four-Wheel Drive – Essential for tackling wet, icy, or muddy conditions, something drivers in the Highlands and Islands are often faced with.
- Fuel Efficiency – Remote areas mean fewer petrol stations, so a car with good fuel economy is ideal.
- Cargo Space – If you’re carrying outdoor gear, luggage, or supplies, an estate or SUV with plenty of boot space is a good choice.
At CARZAR, we stock a variety of high-quality used vehicles suited for these conditions. Here are some of the best car makes and models for tackling the Highlands and Islands…
Hyundai: A Practical Car for All Roads
Hyundai vehicles offer great reliability, modern features, and affordability, making them a solid choice for Highland driving. Many Hyundai models come with optional all-wheel drive (AWD), providing better traction on slippery or uneven surfaces. Their fuel efficiency and strong build quality make them well-suited for long journeys through rural Scotland.
- Hyundai Tucson – A stylish and efficient SUV with AWD options, great for both city and country driving.
- Hyundai Santa Fe – A spacious 7-seater SUV with strong off-road capabilities and advanced safety features.
- Hyundai Kona – A compact crossover with optional AWD, offering great fuel efficiency for long rural journeys.
Land Rover: The Ultimate Highland Explorer
For tackling the most challenging terrain, Land Rover vehicles are a top choice. Designed for off-road adventures, they feature high ground clearance, powerful engines, and advanced four-wheel drive systems that make navigating muddy tracks, steep inclines, and rural backroads effortless. There’s a reason you often see Land Rovers in movies and on tv driving across the rugged Scottish countryside.
- Land Rover Discovery Sport – A luxurious yet capable SUV with Terrain Response technology to handle mud, snow, and gravel.
- Land Rover Defender – If you need the ultimate off-roader for the most rugged conditions, this is the one.
- Range Rover Evoque – A stylish and more compact choice that still provides solid off-road ability.
Toyota: Reliable & Efficient
Toyota’s reputation for reliability and fuel efficiency makes its models a great choice for long drives across the Highlands. Many Toyota SUVs and estates offer hybrid technology, helping to cut fuel costs while providing excellent performance on steep and winding roads. Their durability ensures they can withstand challenging weather conditions – perfect for the ever-changing Scottish conditions.
- Toyota RAV4 – A fuel-efficient hybrid SUV with AWD capabilities, providing excellent traction on wet or icy roads.
- Toyota Land Cruiser – A powerful 4×4, perfect for serious off-roaders and remote-area travel.
- Toyota Corolla– A hybrid estate car, ideal for those looking for a mix of economy, comfort, and cargo space.
Volvo: Safe & Built to Last
Volvo cars are known for their safety, durability, and ability to handle challenging weather conditions. Many models come with AWD options, adaptive safety features, and robust engineering, making them perfect for tackling icy roads, strong winds, and remote routes in the Highlands.
- Volvo XC60 – A luxury SUV offering AWD and high safety ratings, perfect for long Highland journeys, up or down the A9.
- Volvo V90 Cross Country – A raised estate car with AWD for those needing both space and stability.
- Volvo XC40 – A compact SUV with intelligent safety systems and good handling on rural roads.
Nissan: Practical & Versatile Highland Driving
Nissan offers a great balance of affordability, performance, and durability, making them ideal for Highland driving. Their crossover SUVs are particularly well-suited for a mix of urban and rural environments, providing smooth handling on tarmac and extra grip on rougher roads.
- Nissan X-Trail – A spacious SUV with intelligent AWD for slippery rural roads.
- Nissan Qashqai – One of the UK’s best-selling crossovers, providing comfort, reliability, and fuel efficiency.
- Nissan Juke – A smaller option with a raised ride height, suitable for both city and country driving.
- Nissan 370z / 350z – While not built for off-road adventures, these sports cars are perfect for summer road trips along the breathtaking Highland routes. With their powerful engines and rear-wheel drive, they offer an exhilarating driving experience on the winding coastal roads and scenic mountain passes.
Looking for a new Nissan? Our parent dealership, Dicksons of Inverness, has the full range of new Nissan cars to get your teeth stuck into, as well as excellent quality used Nissans.
Ford: Capable & Affordable
Ford’s range of SUVs and crossovers offer great value for Highland drivers. Many Ford models are equipped with intelligent AWD and strong suspension systems, ensuring smooth rides over rough and uneven terrain. You are likely to see a number of Fords, such as the Focus and Fiesta, driving around the city in Inverness, as these are great everyday cars.
- Ford Kuga – A practical SUV with good fuel economy and AWD options.
- Ford Ranger – A pickup truck for those needing serious towing and off-road capability.
- Ford S-Max – A versatile MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) with AWD options for family-friendly road trips.
Dacia: Budget-Friendly & Tough
For drivers looking for an affordable yet rugged option, Dacia is a solid choice. Built with simplicity and durability in mind, Dacia models offer great performance on rough country roads and are ideal for budget-conscious buyers who need a capable vehicle for Highland conditions.
- Dacia Duster – A no-frills but highly capable small SUV with excellent fuel economy and AWD versions.
- Dacia Jogger – A practical 7-seater with plenty of cargo space.
- Dacia Sandero Stepway – A small crossover with a raised suspension for added ground clearance.
Find Your Perfect Used Car at CARZAR
At CARZAR, we regularly update our stock with high-quality used cars suited for Highland and Island driving. Whether you’re looking for an economical crossover, a rugged 4×4, or a family-friendly estate, we have options to suit your needs. Check out our stock below to browse our latest selection and find the perfect car for your next Highland adventure.
Note: Availability of specific models may vary. Please check our website for the most up-to-date inventory.
