Northern Michigan comes alive in the summer. From the winding beauty of the Tunnel of Trees to the crystal waters of Torch Lake and the sweeping vistas of Sleeping Bear Dunes, the right SUV can turn a good road trip into a great one.

At Brown Motors, we’ve handpicked four SUVs that are perfect for Northern Michigan summer road trips — each offering comfort, capability, and style to match your lifestyle.

The Ford Explorer is a go-anywhere, do-anything SUV that’s equally at home on I-75 or a sandy trail.

Why It’s Perfect for Northern Michigan:

• Available Intelligent 4WD for confidence on gravel roads to your cabin
• Three rows of seating for the family or friends
• Strong towing for boats, campers, or jet skis to Torch Lake
• Ford Co-Pilot360™ safety tech keeps you confident on winding roads like the Tunnel of Trees

Best For: Families, weekend explorers, long-distance comfort seekers.

The Bronco Sport packs off-road capability into a nimble, easy-to-park SUV.

Why It’s Perfect for Northern Michigan:

• G.O.A.T. Modes™ (Goes Over Any Terrain) for trails, dunes, and backroads
• Ideal size for downtown Petoskey parking and city driving
• Safari-style roofline and flip-up rear glass for quick access to your gear
• Perfect for day trips to Sleeping Bear Dunes or a sunset picnic at Charlevoix’s waterfront

Best For: Solo travelers, couples, and those who mix urban life with weekend wilderness.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee delivers rugged 4x4 power with upscale comfort.

Why It’s Perfect for Northern Michigan:

• Legendary Jeep off-road systems to handle sand, dirt, and gravel
• Plush interiors and premium tech for highway cruising
• Ample cargo space for camping, beach gear, or golf clubs
• Available 4xe plug-in hybrid for efficient short trips around Charlevoix or Petoskey

Best For: Drivers who want both refinement and ruggedness in one package.

The Wrangler is the ultimate summer SUV — top off, doors off, wind in your hair.

Why It’s Perfect for Northern Michigan:

True 4x4 capability for exploring hidden trails

Removable roof and doors for that pure summer feel

Perfect for dune climbs, trail rides, or beach cruising

Adventure-ready for spots like Sleeping Bear Dunes or Beaver Island

Best For: Off-road enthusiasts and those who want every drive to feel like a vacation.

Whether you’re mapping out a week-long road trip or planning a weekend getaway, having the right SUV can make all the difference. At Brown Motors, we can help you compare these models side-by-side — and find one that’s road trip ready before summer ends.

👉 Test drive the Ford Explorer, Bronco Sport, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Jeep Wrangler
👉 Ask about current summer incentives and financing offers
👉 Get your trade-in appraised in minutes — online or in-store