Best Cars For Long Road Trips
There is a unique magic to a long-haul road trip. It gives you a break from daily life, lets you enjoy changing views—from dry deserts to stunning coastlines—and reminds you that the journey itself can be just as rewarding as the destination. The car you pick plays a big role here. It’s not just transportation; it becomes your shelter, your comfort zone, and your trusted companion on the road. The perfect road trip car should tick a few boxes: it must be comfortable for long hours of driving, reliable even in remote areas, spacious for both people and luggage, and fuel-efficient so you don’t overspend on the way.
Finding the Perfect Long-Distance Cruiser
The search for the perfect long-distance cruiser is about more than power or flashy looks. What really matters is having seats that keep you comfortable hour after hour, a quiet cabin that blocks out road noise, and smart tech that helps without becoming a distraction. Whether you’re driving across countries, chasing sunsets, or simply visiting family a few states away, the right car should make you excited for the next stretch of the trip. Here are ten great options that deliver a top-notch road trip experience.
The 10 Best Cars for Long Road Trips
Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is a true all-rounder and a top choice for road trips that go beyond smooth highways. With its standard all-wheel drive and high ground clearance, it’s ready for rough roads and changing weather. Its wagon-style design gives you a big, easy-to-load cargo space, while the comfortable front seats and advanced safety features, like adaptive cruise control, make long drives both relaxed and safe.
Toyota Camry
If you like the classic sedan style, the Toyota Camry is one of the best choices for long drives. It’s famous worldwide for being extremely reliable and fuel-efficient. The ride is smooth and quiet, easily soaking up bumps on the highway, which makes the journey more relaxing. The cabin has plenty of space, especially in the front, and its solid reputation means you can travel with peace of mind, knowing it’s unlikely to give you any trouble far from home.
Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is a great mix of easy handling and family-friendly space. It’s known for having one of the smartest and roomiest interiors in its class, giving both passengers and luggage plenty of comfort. The ride is smooth, and its fuel-efficient engines help you go farther with fewer fuel stops. It proves that a perfect road-trip car doesn’t have to be huge.
Kia Telluride
The Kia Telluride is a top pick for families or groups who need plenty of room. It has a premium-looking interior that feels upscale without the luxury price tag. With three rows of comfortable seating and generous cargo space, even when all seats are taken, it’s built for big trips. The ride is smooth and quiet, giving passengers a calm, premium feel that’s perfect for long cross-country drives.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is built for long highway drives with comfort and style. Its cabin feels truly luxurious, with seats designed for maximum comfort—some even come with massage functions. Advanced noise control keeps the ride quiet and peaceful, while the suspension makes bumps almost unnoticeable. Add in its strong yet efficient engines, and you get effortless cruising and easy overtaking on any road.
Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 Long Range is a great pick for modern road trippers who want to go electric. Its quiet motor makes driving less stressful, and the clean, minimal cabin feels calm and relaxing. With its excellent range and access to Tesla’s wide charging network, planning long trips becomes much easier. Plus, the advanced driver-assist features help cut down on fatigue during long, boring highway stretches.
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is a great choice for families who need more space than a compact SUV but still want dependability and efficiency. It offers a smooth, comfortable ride that’s ideal for long trips. The hybrid version stands out with excellent fuel economy, saving money and fuel stops along the way. And with Toyota’s trusted reliability, it’s a vehicle you can count on for worry-free travel.
BMW 5 Series
The BMW 5 Series combines sporty performance with great comfort. It’s fun to drive on twisty roads, yet its smooth suspension makes highway cruising feel effortless. The driver-focused interior has seats with excellent support, and the high-quality materials and quiet cabin create a relaxing, premium environment for long trips.
Volvo XC90
The Volvo XC90 is known for its safety and comfortable seating. Its seats are among the best, providing great support for long hours on the road. With three rows of practical seating, it’s perfect for larger groups, and the bright, airy Scandinavian-inspired interior feels calm and relaxing. The soft suspension and advanced safety features make it a reassuring choice for long trips.
Honda Accord
The Honda Accord is a mid-size sedan that feels more premium than its price suggests. It’s fun to drive, handles well, and stays practical for everyday use. With excellent fuel economy and plenty of legroom in both front and back, all passengers can stay comfortable, even on long road trips.
Choosing the Right Car for a Road Trip
The key to a great road trip isn’t how fast your car is or how fancy the gadgets are—it’s knowing your vehicle can handle the journey. Every car on this list, from rugged crossovers to reliable sedans and luxurious cruisers, can turn long drives into a truly enjoyable experience. By focusing on comfort, dependability, and smart design, these cars make sure you and your passengers reach your destination relaxed, with nothing but happy memories from the road.