Top 10 Best Tailgating Vehicles

New York (WSPA) -- A new survey out this week ranks vehicles when it comes to tailgating before the big game.

Kelley Blue Book gave its top choices for the 10 best tailgating cars.  The survey included a vehicle for every budget.

Some of the models offer in-vehicle coolers, connectivity, flexible seating and impressive sound options, according to the new and used car information provider.

"Pick up some friends, stop by the store, park near a stadium and you've got yourself a tailgate party.  But just as the right food and drink can elevate the experience, so too can the right car," said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book's KBB.com.  "In choosing this year's Best Tailgating Cars, the KBB.com editors vetted our favorite vehicle features for parking-lot party fun and came up with a list of 10 vehicles that are sure to delight pigskin fans across America."

The list includes:

1) 2012 RAM 1500

Our top tailgater for this season is the 2012 RAM 1500 pickup.  This ultimate party animal complements a gear-friendly full-size bed with an optional Cargo Box Management system that offers a pair of lockable, waterproof stow spaces for up to 240 cans of your favorite beverages.  Adding even more pre-game appeal are removable underfloor bins, UConnect Wi-Fi system and a 506-watt Alpine premium audio package.

2) 2012 Ford F-150

When seeking the ultimate tailgating vehicle why not choose one with the ultimate tailgate.  Whether you use its bed for weenie and drink storage or as a mobile lounge, climbing aboard the Ford F-150's party section is easy thanks to an optional deployable step cleverly hidden within the tailgate.  And the best-selling vehicle in the country is often the most popular truck in the parking lot, making the F-150 a terrific tailgating icebreaker.

6) 2012 Toyota 4Runner

Meticulously engineered for the most demanding off-road situations, but also ready to party at a moment's notice, the Toyota 4Runner is the automotive equivalent of the tuxedo t-shirt.  Judging by its available sliding rear cargo deck and "Party Mode" equalizer that focuses sound output to the liftgate speakers, we'd say that the 4Runner has won the fight for its right to party.

8) 2013 Mazda CX-5

Stuffing your face outside a stadium in anticipation of watching athletes exercise is the staple pastime of diehard sports fans around the country.  But stocking enough tailgating provisions to satisfy your friends and family can cost a bundle.  Luckily, the Mazda CX-5 is the most fuel-efficient SUV available, leaving you with extra cash for that indispensable novelty foam hand.

9) 2012 Kia Soul

Hamsters.  Dancing Hamsters.  The advertising message couldn't be clearer: the Kia soul is here to rock the party.  Fine, but with all that attitude does the Soul have room to bring the bratwursts?  We'd say 19 cubic feet of cargo room should cover it.  The Kia Soul can also handle the entertainment via an optional 350-watt Infinity audio system featuring speaker surrounds that flash in sync with the music.

Visit the Kelley Blue Book website for the full top 10.