AutoTrader.com's Unexpected Tailgating Cars

Never considered these cars perfect for tailgating, huh? The "perfect" tailgating ride isn’t the same for everyone, but the right tailgating vehicle can make all the difference in their pre- and post-game festivities.

While there are some obvious choices for great tailgating vehicles, there are a few unexpected vehicle that are uniquely designed for a perfect tailgating experience. I’d love to share with you a list of top "unexpected" tailgating vehicles, chosen by the experts at AutoTrader.com, the largest online automotive marketplace. These expert picks will provide your readers with a new look at the must-haves for tailgating, and also serve them well as amazing rides in the offseason. For example:

·         The Mini Cooper Convertible is small enough to help you grab that key parking spot, and stay up to date with all the sports stats with XM radio

·         The Honda Ridgeline has a bed and a trunk so you’ve got room for all of your pre-game grilling needs AND a secure space to protect your valuables when you’re in the stadium.

(Click on the 'Jump' for more "unexpected tailgating cars)

AutoTrader.com’s Unexpected Tailgating Cars

Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

* Load the charcoal grill and cooler in the back with the Wrangler’s four-door design

* Fit a couple of friends in the backseat

* Drive with the top down to and from the game

*Nap in the shade under the accessory tent that attaches to the rear of the vehicle 

Honda Ridgeline

* Entertain and secure your valuables with the Ridgeline’s bed and a lockable trunk

* Swing its tailgate down or to the side for the most convenient access to your gear

* Benefit from its excellent fuel economy (i.e. extra beer and brats!)  

Mini Cooper Convertible

* Flip down the tiny tailgate on the Mini and have a seat

* Tune in to one of XM’s many sports channel with Standard XM radio

* Squeeze through traffic and find that perfect parking space with the Mini’s compact size

Dodge Caliber

* Keep your beer cool in the Chill Zone storage compartment

* Stay in touch with the Uconnect system (offering phone, navigation, Sirius radio and wi-fi)

* Host a pre-game dance party with the MusicGate Power system and subwoofer speakers that flip down from the Caliber’s open hatchback

Chrysler Town & Country

* Get to the game comfortably – Town and Country fits as many as seven passengers comfortably

* Carry all of the cargo necessary for a successful tailgate party

* Enjoy Dual DVD entertainment system

* Take a seat on the third row seat, which flips around to provide an innovative rear-facing bench

Ford Flexo       

* Watch the Goodyear Blimp circle overhead with the multi-panel Vista Roof

* Pull cold beverages from the refrigerated second-row console

* Get to the game with the help of the SYNC infotainment system which can not only give you directions and traffic information, but also keep you updated with sports scores while you tailgate

Hyundai Equus

* Keep cool with power side and rear sunshades

* Relax on the third row – not only does it recline but it also offers a massage option

* Enjoy entertainment through the 608-watt, 17-speaker Lexicon audio system