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Florida to Blue Ridge

Hello all, we are taking the drive from St Pete, FL to Blue Ridge, Ga at the end of December and I'm wondering what kind of vehicle we should rent? We personally own a Ford edge (med suv), that is a 2wd, will that be ok, or do we need something bigger? I looked at renting a F150, but not sure if its necessary or not. Any help would be greatly appreciated

Driving from St. Petersburg, FL to Blue Ridge, GA in late December means you may encounter a mix of weather conditions, including occasional rain, possible ice, or light snow in the North Georgia mountains. Your choice of vehicle should take these factors into account, as well as comfort for the long drive.

Considering your own vehicle, a Ford Edge (2WD, mid-size SUV) could be sufficient for most of the trip, as the highways from Florida through Georgia are generally well-maintained and rarely require off-road capability. However, a few points to keep in mind:

  • Elevation and mountain roads: Blue Ridge sits at a higher elevation, so roads can be winding and potentially slippery in winter weather. A vehicle with all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) provides extra traction and confidence on curves or if ice patches appear.
  • Size and comfort: For a long drive, a mid-size SUV is comfortable for passengers and luggage. A full-size truck like an F-150 offers more ground clearance and traction, but may be less maneuverable on narrow mountain roads.
  • Fuel efficiency: Mid-size SUVs are generally more fuel-efficient than full-size trucks, which may save money over a roughly 9–10 hour drive.

Recommendations:

  • If you are confident driving your 2WD Edge and the forecast looks clear, it should be fine, especially if you are cautious on mountain roads.
  • If you want extra peace of mind for winter driving, consider renting an AWD or 4WD SUV. This offers better traction on icy or snowy patches without the bulk of a truck.
  • Only opt for a full-size truck like an F-150 if you prefer maximum clearance, towing capacity, or if you anticipate any backroads or rough terrain near Blue Ridge that require a truck.

In summary, a mid-size SUV with AWD is a practical choice for comfort, safety, and fuel efficiency. A 2WD Edge is likely adequate under normal conditions, but having AWD can provide added security on winter mountain roads.

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