Our favorite tailgate amenities are slide-out cargo decks, power takeoff outlets, and built-in vacuum cleaners. Many of the features were created for everyday use on specific vehicles, such as the external power options found on the latest work trucks or a minivan's built-in vac. But these same features are extremely handy for pre-game festivities.
So think beyond the literal tailgate. Instead, consider the best tailgating vehicle that comes with the features you want.
Features That Make Pickup Trucks the Best Tailgating Vehicle
In recent years, pickup trucks shifted from work machines to America’s best-selling do-everything vehicle. So, it’s no surprise that pickups—especially luxury trucks—are also mighty tailgaters.
Take the Honda Ridgeline - opens in new window or tab., for example. The Ridgeline is not a hardcore off-roader. But its feature-rich cargo bed rewards passengers when they arrive. The Ridgeline's built-in tailgate speakers and lockable in-bed trunk are invaluable.
The Ridgeline’s deep-well storage compartment becomes a giant ice chest. It even includes a drain plug.
The Ridgeline’s unique dual-action tailgate swings down conventionally or from the driver’s side. It also includes a pair of built-in seats with a rating of 300 pounds. The side panel of the Ridgeline’s bed has a conventional AC power outlet that can supply up to 400 watts. That’s good enough for chargers, lights, and blenders. (Daiquiris, anyone?)
Not to be undone, the GMC Sierra - opens in new window or tab. and Chevy Silverado - opens in new window or tab. offer the MultiPro tailgate, with their own built-in Kicker audio system, USB port, and auxiliary input.
The Ridgeline’s power takeoff is admirable, but it doesn't compare with what comes on the 2021 Ford F-150 hybrid - opens in new window or tab..
That version of America’s most popular pickup—when equipped with the optional 3.5L PowerBoost full-hybrid V-6 engine—is like an electric generator on wheels. It’s capable of supplying an impressive 7.2 kilowatts of power. That’s enough juice to power the most raucous parking-lot party.
SUVs: From Buffet Tables and Massage Seats
SUVs are all the rage these days. Sport utes are mainly about a high seating perch. But SUVs can also provide a compelling set of features for tailgating.
The Toyota 4Runner - opens in new window or tab. is a competent 4x4 with an optional sliding cargo deck rated at 440 pounds. You can use 4Runner’s cargo deck as a seating area or a buffet table. In addition, the full cargo floor is an ideal platform for inflatable mattresses when the rear seats are folded forward.
The 2021 Toyota 4Runner Trail Edition model comes with a custom-made 40-quart cooler and sliding tray.
Tailgating doesn’t mean that you have to rough it. Luxury SUVs, like the Cadillac Escalade - opens in new window or tab. and Range Rover - opens in new window or tab., are magnificent beasts with sprawling interiors. The jumbo-sized 2021 Escalade ESV provides a generous 41.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third-row seats. That’s enough to carry a full supply of coolers, chairs, and other parking lot conveniences.
What’s more, heated and ventilated massage seats will ease the aches and pains from hours spent in folding chairs or on hard benches.
Are Minivans the Best Tailgating Vehicle?
The best minivans these days are like living rooms on wheels. For example, the Chrysler Pacifica - opens in new window or tab. provides seating for seven and oodles of cargo space. Its available rear-seat LCD screens include onboard gaming to keep bored kids busy.
The Pacifica Hybrid is a plug-in hybrid model that provides 32 miles of pure electric range. For those first miles, the Pacifica Hybrid gets the equivalent of 82 miles per gallon, after which it offers 30 mpg when running on gasoline.
If a minivan can handle this much work gear, think about what it could carry to a tailgate party.
The Honda Odyssey - opens in new window or tab. was the first minivan to offer a built-in vac. And the handy built-in vacuum now comes standard with the Chrysler Pacifica Limited.
These new-fangled high-tech features can transform the tailgating experience. But, of course, they can’t match the retro-style of an old-school station wagon.
If you’re into the classics, a big ol’ V-8-powered wagon is the only way to roll. We love the Buick Roadmaster - opens in new window or tab., Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser - opens in new window or tab., and Ford Country Squire - opens in new window or tab.. These spacious road machines can become excellent tailgate vehicles when equipped with the right accessories.
Explore the possibilities: Best Tailgating Accessories: Create a Mobile Party Place - opens in new window or tab..
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.