I have a need for an inexpensive 2 piece casting rod that can bounce around the trunk of an suv and still perform decently as a jack of all trades rod. I’ll be using anything from tx rig plastics, paddle tail swimbaits, squarebills, lipless crankbaits etc. This is going to be used in an after work quick stop at the lake/pond fashion. 
 

I saw an ugly stik that may fit the bill (6’6’’ MH). What are your opinions on that one? Any other suggestions?

Daiwa Aird-X 7 MHF 2pc. I have one for this reason myself. It's always with me just in case. Excellent for the price. I've caught hundreds of fish on it. No issues.

Kastking perigee II 24 ton carbon 3 pc ... m/mh tips 7'... Entsport N Series 2 pc. ...Aries m/h IM8 graphite 7'...  ...I own both of them and have been fishing 30 yrs plus ... BPS has 2pc graphite rt1 m and mh rods on sale 24.97 ...

 

both available on amazon ...

 

good fishing ... 

 

  While not cheep, and not two piece, Diawa  Ardito are quality 3 piece travel rods, that perform well above their price point of around $120 with case.  I own both the medium and medium heavy.  I have at least one of them with me every  where I go.  I have taken them as carry on Airlines, strapped to a motorcycle, tied to the struts of a Super Cub, carried on ATV, fit in  back pack,  and banged around the pack of a pick up as well as the trunk of a car.   Worth the price.

In the trunk? Ugly stick.  Unless you try one of the Ali Express rods mentioned above.  You say beater, and I'm thinking 20 bucks that I'll never get back.  If you put a decent reel on it, get you a good cover or wrap that you use while it's in the trunk.  

Berkley lightning rod 7ft medhvy fast..come in 1pc and 2pc models I believe..$30 at wal mart