The Top 3 Nissan SUVs and Cars to Road Trip from Calgary to Vancouver
The Top 3 Nissan SUVs and Cars to Road Trip from Calgary to Vancouver
Posted on March 13, 2025
Planning a road trip from Calgary to Vancouver offers stunning scenery and diverse driving conditions, making vehicle choice critical. Whether you need versatility, luxury, or fuel efficiency, here are the best new Nissan models to take you from Calgary to Vancouver, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey.
At Country Hills Nissan, we know the right ride can turn hours on the road into moments of connection—with the scenery, your passengers, and even your CarPlay.
Top Nissan Models for Your Calgary to Vancouver Road Trip
Planning a road trip from Calgary to Vancouver? The journey through the Rocky Mountains and across British Columbia’s winding highways demands a vehicle that’s as ready for adventure as you are. Here’s why the Nissan Rogue, Nissan Altima, and Nissan Murano stand out as ideal companions for your next cross-province escape.
- Best for Multi-Season Versatility: Nissan Rogue
- Best for Luxury and Performance: Nissan Murano
- Best for Comfort and Fuel Efficiency: Nissan Altima
The Trip from Calgary to Vancouver
Take your new Nissan for a photo op at Rogers’ Pass, a scenic point on the TransCanada known for its historical significance, or cruise by in safety on your way from Calgary to Vancouver.
Setting out on a drive from Calgary to Vancouver immerses you in the beauty of mountains, the nature of multiple national parks, akin to entering a real-life picturesque card. This expansive trip stretches more than 973 km or 1,005+ km (depending on your route) and could technically be driven non-stop in about 11 hours. Having said that, indulging in a week-long explorers’ journey is strongly suggested for full appreciation of the majesty of the Rockies.
For those seeking the best weather conditions during their adventure, they should aim for July through August when the climate is most favorable for venturing into the Rocky Mountains—but note these months attract peak visitor traffic. On the other hand, if one finds themselves traveling during winter periods, especially in hazardous spots like Rogers Pass, the Nissan Rogue’s adeptness in snow-covered environments proves invaluable.
Possible Overnighting Stops
Another highlight worth visiting is Kelowna, positioned at the heart of the Okanagan Valley and celebrated for its ripe vineyards and inviting golf resorts—offering a city vibe with lots of spots to relax and enjoy full amenities. Overnighting here is a great idea, and even if your Nissan’s full-tank range is around 700km (like the Murano), you can gas up and call it a day, ready to hit the road bright and early the next day.
Banff must not be missed along this route, unless you’ve already day-tripped there enough for a lifetime! It’s famed for its picturesque Sulphur Mountain (complete with Gondola) and awe-inspiring panoramas at the top. Fancy lodging options such as the Fairmont located within Banff offer elevated respite after a long day on the return trip from Vancouver.
Pit Stops
As more or less the half-way point, Sicamous is also a nice town with fresh BC fruit for sale in the summer. A little further west, the Salmon Arm offers winding roads, great for enjoying the handling of your new Nissan SUV or car. Plus, Hope and Kelowna are decent places to stop for a quick meal, but the former is the only one on the TransCanada.
Venturing northwest up Highway 93 brings travelers along the Icefields Parkway that connects Banff with Jasper—but it’s quite a detour. Still, if you’re not headed for Vancouver the same night you depart Calgary, this segment offers remarkable scenery warranting a visit as a worthwhile side quest. More on the way stops include Kamloops or Golden, both in BC and along the TransCanada!
Nissan Rogue - Best for Versatility
Your sales advisor can show you the advanced safety features in Nissan models like the Rogue, including ProPILOT Assist, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, and Blind Spot Warning. These features ensure a safer and more relaxed long trip down Highway 1.
The new Nissan Rogue shines in versatility, ideal for family road trips. Its EZ Flex Seating System lets you optimize cargo space or passenger comfort as needed, perfect for spontaneous travel changes.
With an EPA-estimated fuel efficiency of 8.4 L/100km in cities and 6.7 L/100km on highways (like the Coquihalla), the Rogue minimizes time at gas stations, allowing more time to enjoy the scenery or fun taking on the highway’s curves.
Specifications:
- Fuel efficiency: 8.4 L/100km in cities, 6.7 L/100km on highways
- EZ Flex Seating System for multiple configurations
- 1,112 liters (39.3 cubic feet) of cargo space behind the rear seats. With the rear seats folded down, the cargo capacity expands to 2,098 liters (74.1 cubic feet).
Pros:
- Excellent fuel economy for SUVs or cars for that matter
- Roomy cabin with flexible seating
- Advanced safety features
Cons:
- Limited power compared to some competitors
- Base model lacks some premium features
Our sales advisors have some experience in this department, as do many, from all walks of life. But, as one said:
“On my last trip to Vancouver, the Rogue’s spacious cabin and advanced safety features ensured a stress-free journey. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, kept everyone entertained. I did find myself wanting more power for steep inclines, but overall, the Rogue remains a reliable and family-friendly option.”
Bottom line, the space you get out of a compact is exceptional! It makes the Rogue an excellent choice for road trips, allowing you to carry all your gear and still have room for passengers to travel comfortably.
Rating:
- Price: 8/10
- Design: 7/10
- Comfort: 9/10
- Fuel Efficiency: 9/10
- Safety: 10/10
Nissan Murano - Best for Luxury and Performance
Your sales advisor can highlight the Nissan Murano's premium interior, including heated and cooled front seats. This feature ensures you stay comfortable regardless of the weather, making your road trip from Calgary to Vancouver even more enjoyable.
The new Nissan Murano stands out for those who favor sophistication and superior performance. The vehicle is powered by a decent engine that delivers seamless operation, complemented by a sleek interior featuring front seats that both heat and cool, providing comfort during drives in any season.
Specifications:
- Turbocharged 2.0L Four-Cylinder with 241 Horsepower / 260 Pound-Feet
Pros:
- Powerful engine
- Luxurious interior
- Comprehensive safety suite
- Premium interior with heated and cooled front seats
Cons:
- Relatively higher fuel consumption (10.2 L/100km combined)
- Limited cargo space compared to other SUVs
On my recent trip to Vancouver, the indulgent features and potent performance of the Murano contributed to an enjoyable travel experience.
Its comprehensive suite of safety technologies including the Intelligent Around View® Monitor brought added confidence navigating through challenging mountainous terrains. Even with its somewhat elevated fuel usage peaking at 11.8 L/100km and somewhat restricted cargo capacity, driving the Murano to Richmond, West Vancouver, or West Hastings remains a refined affair.
Rating:
- Price: 7/10
- Design: 9/10
- Comfort: 10/10
- Fuel Efficiency: 6/10
- Safety: 10/10
Nissan Altima - Best for Comfort and Fuel Efficiency
Your sales advisor can guide you on the best route for your road trip from Calgary to Vancouver. While the drive takes around 11 hours straight, breaking it up to enjoy the sights makes the journey much more enjoyable. Find out how the 7.4 L/100km gas efficiency of the Nissan Altima makes driving route from Calgary to Vancouver for yourself!
If you prioritize comfort and fuel efficiency, the new Nissan Altima stands out as a prime selection for extended drives. The capacious cabin coupled with its zero-gravity front seats offers an effortless driving experience without exhaustion, even during prolonged trips.
Its 2.5L engine boasts remarkable fuel conservation capabilities, achieving up on highways to enhance your travel distance.
Pros:
- Excellent fuel economy; 8.7 L/100km City and 6.0 L/100km Highway
- Comfortable zero-gravity front seats
- Advanced safety features
Cons:
- Less cargo capacity compared to SUVs
- Some premium features only available in higher trims
With a 12.3-inch sophisticated infotainment system for google maps, the Altima can keep you on the right track as you close in on Vancouver and get you to your final destination there with ease.
Plus, the addition of ProPILOT Assist and Intelligent Forward Collision Warning systems count for a lot. Despite its cargo space not rivaling that of an SUV, the Nissan Altima shines by bringing the best of comfort together with efficiency and just what you need.
Rating:
- Price: 9/10
- Design: 8/10
- Comfort: 10/10
- Fuel Efficiency: 10/10
- Safety: 9/10
Choosing the Best Nissan for Your Road Trip
When selecting the ideal Nissan model for a Calgary to Vancouver road trip, consider your space needs and driving preferences. For trips with family, the Nissan Rogue is something to consider due to its roomy interior and adaptable cargo solutions. It provides a lot of enhanced safety thanks to features such as Automatic Emergency Braking and Blind Spot Warning.
For those who value luxury coupled with strong performance, opt for the Nissan Murano. This vehicle provides an elegant ride powered by a spirited V6 engine alongside a refined cabin environment but note that it has higher fuel consumption compared to others and limited cargo capacity.
The Nissan Altima emerges as an excellent choice when prioritizing fuel efficiency without sacrificing comfort. Its notable fuel economy paired with cutting-edge safety innovations like ProPILOT Assist positions it as a trustworthy travel companion on lengthy excursions while ensuring driver relaxation through its comfortable seating area equipped with zero-gravity seats at the front.
Safety technology plays an indispensable role in long-distance travels. Seek models featuring forward collision warning systems, automated emergency braking capability, blind spot monitoring utilities, along with adaptive cruise control—these bells and whistles not only bolster your road safety but alleviate strains of extended TransCanada journeys too.
Which Nissan is Best for Visiting Vancouver During the Holidays?
Your sales advisor can help you find the perfect Nissan Rogue for tougher features that help you handle any leg of the trip to Vancouver. With its capable performance, spacious interior, and versatile cargo space, the Rogue makes long drives comfortable and enjoyable for everyone, with room for luggage and passengers as needed, winter or summer.
The Nissan Rogue is well-equipped for winter driving on multiple critical parts of the drive there and back, like Stoney Trail, Highway 1, and the Coquihalla, thanks to several key features. With multiple game-changing features, the Nissan Rogue is reliable for winter driving on these challenging highways and freeways.
And for optimal performance in heavy snow or ice, it's recommended to invest in winter tires from our Parts department or all-season tires with a higher treadwear rating. It's also the law in BC!
Visit Country Hills Nissan for Help Choosing a Nissan Fit for Sea to (Chinook) Sky Journeys and Beyond
Your sales advisor can demonstrate the Nissan Altima's zero-gravity front seats, designed to reduce fatigue on long drives. Experience ultimate comfort as you travel from Calgary to Vancouver, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.
Set outing on a road trip from Calgary to Vancouver demands selecting the ideal vehicle for a seamless and pleasurable drive. The Nissan Rogue, Murano, and Altima each bring distinct advantages suitable for varying needs during your travels.
Regardless of which Nissan model captures your interest, rest assured that it embodies steadfast dedication to craftsmanship along with notable safety features and dependability standards intrinsic to these vehicles’ designs—crafted specifically to offer peace of mind alongside enduring comfort.
Prepare yourself thoroughly before the long drive if you’re doing it in one day. Set out equipped with the essentials—and be sure to enjoy the anticipation—as reliable performance awaits well beyond every curve en route from Calgary to Vancouver and back. Contact us to do it in a new Nissan!