Economy class or SUV: how to choose a car for a trip around Georgia

Georgia attracts travelers not only with its rich history and culture, but also with its natural diversity - from cozy beaches to snow-capped mountains and desert valleys. To see all the beauties, many tourists choose to rent a car. However, they face a question: what type of car is suitable for traveling in Georgia? In this article we will consider the peculiarities of choosing between economy class, SUV and minivan, as well as tell you what to look for when choosing a car depending on the route and the number of passengers.

Economy class: for cities and smooth roads

Economy class cars are popular among travelers who want to save money and travel on comfortable routes. Such cars are ideal for large cities, where the road surface is good and trips are short. Here are the pros and cons of this type of car:

Pros:

1. Economy. Economy class cars usually have low fuel consumption, which is especially beneficial for long trips and frequent refueling.
2. Low rental cost. Compared to SUVs and minivans, renting an economy-class car will cost less, which is especially important for budget travelers.
3. Parking convenience. Small dimensions make the economy class convenient for parking in the city center, especially in Tbilisi, where it can be difficult to find a place.

Minuses:

1. limited options for mountain travel. Economy class cars rarely have all-wheel drive and lack the power to overcome steep climbs and difficult roads.
2. Small trunk. If you're traveling with a lot of stuff, there may not be enough trunk space, limiting the comfort of the trip.
3. low ground clearance. On difficult routes, such as in Kazbegi or Tusheti, where roads are often broken, low ground clearance can be a serious problem.

When to choose: Economy class is ideal if you plan to stay within Tbilisi, Kutaisi or Batumi and travel on city streets and highways. Such a car is suitable for couples or small groups of up to three people who do not plan to take a lot of luggage and do not intend to go to the mountains.

Off-road: for mountains and inaccessible places

SUVs are the best choice for those who want to explore Georgia's mountainous regions and remote areas. Powerful, stable and ready for any conditions, they allow you to reach the most secluded corners of the country without any problems.

Plusses:

1. Passability. SUVs have high ground clearance and all-wheel drive, making them ideal for mountain and dirt roads.
2. large trunk. Unlike the economy class, SUVs offer more luggage space, which is important for traveling long distances.
3. Comfort on challenging roads. The suspension of SUVs is designed for rough trails, making the ride more comfortable even on broken sections.

Minuses:

1. High fuel consumption. Because of their size and power, SUVs use more fuel, which increases the cost of the trip.
2. Higher rental cost. Compared to economy class, renting an SUV can cost two to three times more.
3. Difficulties with parking. In cities, especially in the center of Tbilisi, large SUVs may face difficulties in parking due to their size.

When to choose: If your route includes mountain roads (for example, trips to Svaneti, Kazbegi or Tusheti), the choice of an SUV becomes obvious. It will provide comfort and safety on difficult terrains and allow you to enjoy views that are often beyond the reach of passenger cars. The SUV is suitable for companies of four to five people and families with children.

Minivan: for large groups and comfort

Minivans are ideal for large groups and families with children. If you're traveling with five or more people, a minivan offers spaciousness and comfort not available in other classes.

Plusses:

1. Spacious interior. A minivan can accommodate 7-9 passengers while maintaining a comfortable level of space.
2. Convenience for long trips. The minivan's seats are frequently adjustable and provide good support, making it ideal for long trips.
3. Large luggage compartment volume. For traveling with a lot of stuff, the minivan offers optimal conditions - both luggage and sports equipment will fit.

Minuses:

1. Limited cross-country ability. Unlike SUVs, minivans are not designed for mountain roads and hard-to-reach places. They are better used on highways and in cities.
2. High fuel consumption. Minivans also use more fuel, which can be an additional expense.
3. Size and maneuverability. A minivan may not be very maneuverable on the narrow streets of old cities like Sighnaghi or Mtskheta.

When to choose: A minivan is the best solution for large companies or families planning to travel on city and intercity routes. It is ideal for convenient travel around the main attractions of Georgia, such as Borjomi, Kakheti and Mtskheta, where roads are good and four-wheel drive is not necessary.

Comparison of car types depending on your route

Each car type has its advantages and limitations, and the choice depends on your route:

• City trips and resort areas. If your route includes cities such as Tbilisi, Kutaisi and Batumi, as well as coastal areas, economy class will be a great option. There are good roads, plenty of gas stations, and parking does not require high clearance.

• Mountain routes and remote areas. An SUV is essential here, as the roads in Svaneti, Racha and Kazbegi are often unpaved and require high clearance. An SUV is also indispensable for traveling in the winter season, when snowfall can limit accessibility.

• Traveling in a large group. If you're taking a family or friends on a trip, a minivan provides comfort and roominess. It is ideal for visiting sights where off-road performance is not required, such as Mtskheta or Kakheti.

Conclusion

Georgia offers an incredible variety of destinations, and renting a car is one of the best ways to explore its riches. When choosing a car, it is important to consider not only the cost of the rental, but also the specifics of the route and the number of passengers. Economy class is suitable for city trips and traveling by two or three people, SUV - for conquering mountain roads and hard-to-reach places, and minivan - for comfortable traveling in a large company.

When renting any type of car, we recommend you to familiarize yourself with its characteristics, carefully study the terms of lease and choose the best insurance. This way you will be able to enjoy your trip and avoid unexpected costs and difficulties on the road.