best long distance road trip vehicle

Best Road Trip Cars in 2023

Get ready to hit the road for vacations and holidays in a car that's fuel efficient, reliable and comfortable. We found the best road trip cars for any adventure.

Kia Motors America |

Looking for Adventure? Head Out on the Highway!

People have a lot of pent-up travel lust after years of pandemic restrictions and uncertainty. Air travel in particular has seen a huge rise this summer, with the busiest day in the industry's history occurring in June. Rather than fight those busy flights, hit the road in a new vehicle that can fit all your luggage and maybe even help you keep your cool.

No single car is the perfect road trip vehicle for everyone, but great road trip cars have some features in common. We looked for vehicles that have good gas mileage for fewer stops at gas stations, enough USB ports to keep everyone's devices charged up and comfortable seats in all rows. Driver assistance features are important too, as they can help reduce fatigue during long days on the road.

When new information becomes available, we update our reviews, so the information in these slides might not match the reviews exactly.

Let's take a look at the best road trip cars so we can – finally – get out of town.

Hyundai Motor America |

2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

$31,350 | usn overall score: 8.7/10.

The 2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is among the best in its class. Its long list of features was refreshed for the new model year, and it was a finalist for our Best Hybrid SUV for the Money and Best Hybrid SUV for Families awards. The regular hybrid is the best for road tripping, with up to 38 mpg on the highway. The available plug-in hybrid shines brightest when you can take full advantage of its 33 miles of electric-only power around town.

Inside, there's tons of room for adults in both rows of seating and a huge cargo area. An 8-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay , wireless Android Auto , four USB ports and wireless device charging come standard.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas

$34,460 | usn overall score: 8.0/10.

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas has enough room to bring along everybody and all their gear. It's available with two or three rows of seating, and even the optional third row has enough room for shorter adults or squirmy kids. It has more cargo space behind the third row than most in its class. A 6.5-inch touch screen and smartphone compatibility come standard.

Despite being a 3-row SUV, the Atlas is easy to maneuver, even when you leave the highway for city streets. It can also tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly configured if you plan to bring a small camper or want to tow some toys for your vacation.

2023 Lincoln Navigator

$77,635 | usn overall score: 8.8/10.

Wherever your road trip takes you, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator will make sure you arrive in comfort and style. It's one of the best luxury large SUVs, with a well-built and high-quality interior. Standard features include a 13.2-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone connectivity, a Wi-Fi hotspot and five USB ports.

Every seat in all three rows is comfortable, and the available L model adds extra space to an already roomy cargo area. And though it is large, the Navigator turns in decent fuel economy estimates for its class, with up to 23 mpg on the highway. Standard safety features like lane-keep assist can help reduce driver fatigue too.

2023 Chevrolet Suburban

$57,200 | overall score: 8.2/10.

The 2023 Chevrolet Suburban is the classic family road trip SUV. It's huge, with more cargo space than almost any SUV out there. It can be configured to seat up to nine people (though it's a tight fit). With seven or eight seats, even the third row provides enough legroom for adults. The interior is sturdy enough for epic journeys, and it comes with an 8-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone connectivity and six USB ports.

Depending on how you configure it, the Suburban can tow up to 8,300 pounds, enough for the average camper. It also comes with driver-assistance features like lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist and automatic emergency braking.

2023 Genesis G90

$88,400 | usn overall score: 9.3/10.

The 2023 Genesis G90 was completely redesigned this year, and it added an optional mild-hybrid powertrain that improves acceleration when passing on the highway. The available air suspension makes long drives a dream, and the long list of standard safety features-including adaptive cruise control-eases the tedium of driving.

The Nappa leather interior wraps the road tripper in luxury, and both rows of seating are comfortable for adults. The trunk is large enough for several suitcases, and it opens automatically as you approach. The G90 also has one of the longest warranties in the business.

2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

$30,725 | usn overall score: 8.2/10.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid takes everything that has made this compact SUV popular over the years, like a comfortable ride and plenty of standard high-tech features, and added a fuel-efficient and quick-accelerating hybrid powertrain. It can get up to 41 mpg on the highway, which helps cut road trip costs. It was also a finalist for our Best Hybrid SUV for the Money award.

The interior is solidly built, and both rows of seating are comfy. There's also great visibility for everyone, so games of "I Spy" may get competitive. An 8-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone compatibility and a Wi-Fi hotspot come standard. Adaptive cruise control and traffic-sign recognition (both standard) help you when driving in unfamiliar locations.

2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

$32,950 | usn overall score: 8.3/10.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid is a more fuel-efficient version of the popular compact SUV, with up to 43 mpg on the highway. It's been completely redesigned this year, with more standard tech features and an improved infotainment system. A 7-inch touch screen, smartphone connectivity, a Wi-Fi hotspot and four USB ports come standard.

The seats are comfy in both rows, with room for adults to stretch out even on road trips. The rear seats recline, so whoever is off driving duty can take a nap. Standard adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist help reduce the fatigue that can come with hours of driving.

2024 Kia Carnival

$33,200 | overall score: 8.5/10.

The 2024 Kia Carnival basically begs you to get the show on the road, and it comes standard with several advanced safety features, including driver-attention monitoring.

The interior is upholstered with easy-to-clean materials, and all three rows have enough room for adults, though the third row is short on headroom. It also has lots of cargo space, even with all three rows in use. An 8-inch touch screen, smartphone compatibility and seven USB ports come standard.

2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

$50,795 | usn overall score: 8.6/10.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacific Hybrid is a plug-in hybrid, so when you reach your destination and charge up, you can drive about 32 miles on electric power alone. Under electric power, this Chrysler gets 82 MPG-equivalent, and gasoline-only driving returns up to 30 mpg on the highway. These are great numbers for a minivan.

There's also a ton of tech included, like a 10.1-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone connectivity and Amazon Alexa compatibility. All three rows of seating have lots of head- and legroom, and there's plenty of storage space. Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control and a surround-view parking camera system.

2023 Ram 1500

$31,270 | usn overall score: 9.0/10.

If your road trip plan involves a camper or boat, you'll want to look into the 2023 Ram 1500 . When properly equipped, it can tow up to 12,750 pounds. As with most pickups, you can configure the 1500 in whatever way works for you.

There are a lot of options and body styles to choose from too, but they all have a spacious, high-quality interior. The availability of safety features and infotainment tech depends on the trim you choose and the options you select, so you can custom-build the road-tripping pickup of your dreams – or the one that fits your budget.

2023 Honda Civic

$23,750 | usn overall score: 8.7/10.

Your road-trip car is probably also your go-to-work-every-day car. The 2023 Honda Civic ably handles both roles. It's one of the best compact cars in its class, and we named it the Best Compact Car for the Money as well as one of the Best Cars for Teens . All of its scores are high, especially when it comes to safety. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave it the Top Safety Pick+ designation.

It's not just safe, it's also thrifty, with up to 42 mpg on the highway. A 7-inch touch screen and smartphone connectivity come standard. It also comes with adaptive cruise control and traffic-sign recognition, which make driving in unfamiliar areas a bit easier.

2023 Ford Mustang

$27,770 | usn overall score: 9.2/10.

Sometimes you want to live the American road trip dream in an impractical sports car. But guess what – the 2023 Ford Mustang is a rather practical sports car with one of the highest overall U.S. News scores. There are several available engines, but sticking with the base turbo-four means an estimated 32 mpg on the highway.

Living the American muscle car fantasy on the open road is best for two people, since the Mustang's rear seats are pretty small. Its standard infotainment system has a 4.2-inch display – not a touch screen – and a Wi-Fi hot spot. Standard safety tech includes automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. But maybe most importantly, for purposes of the dream, the Mustang is available as a convertible.

Road Trip Car Characteristics

Passenger space : People turn cranky when they aren't comfortable after hours on the road. There needs to be space for everyone to stretch out.

Cargo space : At the very minimum, you'll be bringing luggage along and maybe also camping gear or tubes for floating the river. Make sure there's space for your gear.

Fuel economy : Stopping for gas on a road trip can get expensive. Fuel efficiency, particularly from hybrid powertrains, can ease the pain of stopping at the pump.

Infotainment : An AM/FM radio is no longer sufficient for most people. An infotainment system that's easy to use while driving and can connect to smartphones is key.

Safety tech : Driving long distances causes fatigue, and fatigue causes accidents. Modern driver-assistance features can help you stay alert and in your lane.

Reliability : No one wants to be the car in the breakdown lane while on their road trip. A good predicted reliability score shows that a particular model has on average been a solid performer over time.

John M. Vincent | U.S. News & World Report

Road Trip Car FAQs

What is the best car for road trips.

The best car for road trips is the one that fits your budget and your needs, so there's no one vehicle that will work for everybody. That said, the 2023 Honda Civic is a strong pick. It provides comfort, features, safety and reliability, and all for one of the lowest price tags on this list.

What is the best SUV for road trips?

The 2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid combines a long list of standard features with great fuel economy, and it has one of the most spacious interiors in its class.

What is the best luxury car for road trips?

The redesigned 2023 Genesis G90 will take you anywhere in comfort and style. Most of its best features are standard, including leather upholstery.

What is the most comfortable car for long trips?

On a list of very comfortable vehicles, the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid is probably the most comfortable, especially for back-seat passengers who can take advantage of those reclining seats. If comfort is your priority, take a look at our list of most comfortable cars for more options.

U.S. News and World Report |

More Shopping Tools From U.S. News & World Report

Plenty of families take road trips, so you might want to check out the winners of our 2023 Best Cars for Families awards too. Maybe you've been left stranded on an unfamiliar road by your former car and are looking for the most reliable cars available. If you know you need to bring along a lot of gear, see our roundup of compact SUVs with the most cargo space .

When you're ready to buy a new car, use our Best Price Program to pre-negotiate a great price with a local dealership. You can arrange for online buying and even vehicle delivery through the program.

U.S. News & World Report |

Best Cars for Road Trips

2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid - $31,350 | Overall Score: 8.7/10
2023 Volkswagen Atlas - $34,460 | Overall Score: 8.0/10
2023 Lincoln Navigator - $77,635| Overall Score: 8.8/10
2023 Chevrolet Suburban - $57,200 | Overall Score: 8.2/10
2023 Genesis G90 - $88,400 | Overall Score: 9.3/10
2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid - $31,225 | Overall Score: 8.2/10
2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid - $32,950 | Overall Score: 8.3/10
2024 Kia Carnival - $33,200 | Overall Score: 8.5/10
2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid - $50,795 | Overall Score: 8.6/10
2023 Ram 1500 - $31,270 | Overall Score: 9.0/10
2023 Honda Civic - $23,750 | Overall Score: 8.7/10
2023 Ford Mustang - $27,770 | Overall Score: 9.2/10

Browse Cars

The Best Road Trip Cars for Exploring Solo, Sightseeing with Family, and More

By Kym Allison Backer

We’re still working out where to safely travel in the immediate future, but what’s certain is that after months of staying close to home, we couldn’t be more ready to make a move—which means we're officially on the hunt for the best road trip cars. With gas prices holding steady, there’s no better time to load up your favorite playlists and hit the road, company optional. We’ve gone ahead and done the research for you, assembling a list of some of the best road trip cars to pick up at your local rental agencies to help ensure a seamless and safe trip, whether you’re traveling with your kids, going solo, or looking for an off-road adventure.

For packing in the whole family

Chrysler pacifica.

It’s only fitting that the brand that first put minivans on American roads is behind the award-winning Chrysler Pacifica (named Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, and Family Car of the Year by Cars.com). The sleek styling of the eight-seater will firmly put to rest any reservations about maintaining cool cred, while the spacious interior’s in-floor access bins and stow-and-go second- and third-row seats allow for a variety of configurations, no matter your family’s size . Opt for a model with all-wheel drive that automatically engages if you hit adverse weather.

The glossy, streamlined fourth-generation A8 is a stunner, from the sporty new grille to the interior’s ambient lighting. Once in motion, check out the drive select system; the comfort setting, which softens the steering and acceleration, will let you smoothly take precious cargo down rough roads. Warning: your kids will compete for the rear seats, thanks to the excess legroom, panoramic sunroof, and futuristic, neatly stowed console that controls all the rear amenities, like heated and massaging seats. Parking sensors and lane departure warning come standard.

Chevy Suburban

Don’t let the outsize proportions scare you off. The newly revamped Chevy Suburban ranks high when it comes to second-row legroom and cargo space, and now has an expanded third row that can comfortably accommodate long-legged teens. Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, and multiple cameras (up to nine) for 360-degree exterior views. For added security, there’s also hidden storage so that you can secure your valuables anytime you leave the vehicle. Opt for a model with dual rear screens to keep the kids endlessly entertained.

The Mazda6 has a quiet cabin that can block out road noise on long drives.

For trekking 2,500 miles across the country

Toyota camry.

The Toyota Camry has consistently ranked as one of the most reliable midsize vehicles for the past three decades, making it one of the best picks for any trip. It offers incredible fuel economy, getting 29 miles per gallon in the city, and 41 miles per gallon on the highway (which also means fewer stops!) and has a notably quiet cabin where you can blast tunes and keep up with directions on the standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Pedestrian detection, lane departure, brake assist, and lane tracing assist from Toyota’s Star Safety System also keep the Camry centered in its lane.

Genesis G70

The refined Genesis G70 has been named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, one of many accolades for this polished, comfortable sedan. It’s a pleasure to sit in the top-notch driver’s seat, with its well-padded diamond quilted Nappa leather. The cockpit feel is enhanced by aluminum accents, a short, stylish gear box, and the G70’s agile and responsive handling, which makes short work of the miles ahead. Added bonus: the trunk can fit multiple carry-ons or larger suitcases, and the rear seat folds for extra cargo space.

The Mazda6 is a good-looking sport sedan with a stylish interior designed for maximum comfort, a necessity when you’re spending days on the road. The Mazda6 gives you a peppy, smooth drive and a quiet cabin that blocks out exterior noise. There are convenient wheel-mounted controls, easy-access sound controls, and a solid navigation system that’s also a breeze to program. Standard features include folding rear seats, blind spot monitoring, automated emergency braking, and low-speed forward-collision warning.

For exploring solo, safely

Toyota rav4.

When you’re on your own, reliability takes on a whole new level of importance. That’s where the RAV4 comes in: after more than 25 years on the road, the model remains a winner for its manageable size, dependable performance, and commendable fuel economy, getting 27 miles per gallon in the city, and 35 miles per gallon on the open road. You’ll appreciate the car's many safety touches, which include interior lights that illuminate as you approach and driver assistance features such as an integrated backup camera, folding and fully reclining rear seats, lane-tracing assist, and Bluetooth connectivity.

Ford Mustang

America’s love affair with the Mustang began over 50 years ago and it’s still going strong. The allure is obvious, from those legendary lines to the sound of the high-powered engine—but what lies at the heart of the Mustang’s enduring popularity is that once you slide into those bucket seats, it’s an unbeatably fun, and fast, ride. Standard models come with a rearview camera, six-speed manual transmission, and a complimentary dose of nostalgia.

Honda Accord

Ten generations in, the Accord has solidified its spot as one of the most durable and nimble vehicles on the road, a winning combination for a swift, problem-free drive. The distinctive sedan’s spacious interior provides ample legroom and comfort for even the tallest of drivers and the stellar fuel economy (30 miles per gallon in the city, and 38 miles per gallon on the highway) make it a no-brainer for any trip. Driver assist technology, including traffic sign recognition and an automatic braking system that kicks in to help prevent collisions, come standard.

The Land Rover Defender's roof can support up to 600 pounds, perfect for a roof tent.

For navigating the backroads

Land rover defender.

Land Rover has long perfected the marriage of form and function, making the Defender one of the best off-roading vehicles out there. Tackling muddy or rocky ground? The quick turn of a dial will let you select a suitable suspension and traction mode for the terrain you’re on and, if you approach water, the 3D-surround camera and wade-sensing system will gauge the depth and allow you to navigate through up to 35 inches. When parked, the rear seats fold down with the touch of a button, and the roof supports a tent and occupants up to a combined 600 pounds.

Subaru Ascent

The Ascent is Subaru’s largest SUV, and it puts that size to good use with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds (enough to haul a small trailer). The generously sized cabin seats up to eight passengers, and the rear seats fold flat to haul extra cargo or to pinch hit as a makeshift bed. Traveling with a group? The Ascent’s roof rail capacity of 700 pounds nicely accommodates a sturdy rooftop tent. Standard features include all-wheel drive, driver assist technology, and a rear-seat reminder alert that sounds when anything is left behind as you prepare to exit the vehicle.

Volkswagen Atlas

VW’s seven-seater Atlas has already seen a few changes since its relaunch three years ago. It’s one of the largest crossover SUVs, has unmatched cargo and passenger space, folding second- and third-rows, and roof rails that you can use to secure anything from kayaks to boxes of gear. The Atlas is also capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds, has four adjustable all-wheel drive modes, stability enhancing systems, a hands-free liftgate, and park distance control.

Washington Pass Along the North Cascades Highway

For going greener

Ford fusion hybrid.

This attractive midsize gas-electric hybrid lets you keep track of energy output on customizable dashboard screens. Along with a roomy interior and 10-way power driver seat for maximum comfort, standard features include an eight-inch touchscreen and voice command for easy access to directions and entertainment, blind spot monitoring, forward automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and a rearview camera.

Toyota Prius

The Prius has spent the last two decades accumulating industry accolades, and it’s still going strong. The gas-electric hatchback comes with stellar stats: consistently top-ranked on safety lists, excellent fuel economy (it averages 50 miles per gallon in the city, and 54 miles per gallon on the highway) and a reliable history. The company has also upped the model’s standard features, which now include a mammoth 11.6-inch screen, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, an integrated backup camera, and a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection. (And you’d be surprised how much you can fit in the trunk.)

Jaguar I-Pace

Be prepared to throw any preconceived notions about “boring” electric vehicles out the window when you encounter Jaguar's I-Pace. In the plush and surprisingly spacious cabin, take a minute to check out the detailed instrument panel, then select dynamic mode for a sporty, full-throttle ride. Before you zoom off, download an app like ChargePoint so that you’ll be able to quickly pinpoint fast-charging stations along your route—though with a 253-mile range, you'll have enough juice to get from, say, Washington D.C. to New York .

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The Best Road Trip Cars From Every Category

When "Head out on the highway" is more than just a line from a song to you, these are the cars to buy.

Civic Hatchback

Embarking on an epic road trip adventure requires the perfect companion, and selecting the ideal car for the journey can significantly impact your experience. In an era where sustainability and efficiency take center stage, the realm of road trip vehicles has transformed. From the ever-expanding array of electric vehicles to power-oriented marvels, the choices have never been more exhilarating. The question is simple: What is the best car for long-distance driving?

That's a loaded question, so today, we'll explore the best road trip cars in 10 different segments, guiding you through options that guarantee comfort, dependability, and the freedom to navigate extensive distances effortlessly. Whether plotting a picturesque coastal drive, a cross-country odyssey, or a quick weekend escape, these road trip-ready vehicles will enhance the journey, and perhaps even the destination. Prepare to embark on your open-road adventure with unwavering confidence as we unveil the top contenders in the domain of road-trip cars.

The Hatchback: 2024 Honda Civic Hatch

The latest Civic Hatchback keeps its enjoyable driving dynamics intact despite being a more grown-up car than any Civic before it. In base form, its 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder produces an ample 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque, while a turbocharged 1.5-liter ups the stakes to 180 hp and 177 lb-ft. Plus, if you're still of the old-school persuasion and like to be in control of the experience, you can get a six-speed manual gearbox in the Sport and Sport Touring trims - or a CVT if you prefer to relax.

With combined EPA ratings of up to 35 mpg in turbo guise and 33 mpg in base form, the Civic is light on gas, and starting at an MSRP of $24,950, it's light on your bank account from the get-go.

Combine its mechanical attributes with a spacious cabin and large trunk (24.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats), and it's a winner already. Factor in a full suite of connectivity options like a seven-inch touchscreen and matching digital gauge cluster (nine- and 10.2 inches respectively on the Sport Touring), and you have one of the most complete long-distance vehicles on the market and a perfect family road trip car.

The Crossover: 2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

This fuel-efficient road trip car boasts a hybrid system, achieving an impressive 38 mpg combined EPA rating. The hybrid powertrain comprises a 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder with electric augmentation, paired to a six-speed automatic gearbox, producing 226 hp and 258 lb-ft.

Whether traveling with a full crew or just a few, the standard all-wheel drive ensures surefootedness over any surface and in any climate through sun, snow, and rain.

Ideal for family road trips, it boasts a comfortable and spacious interior equipped with rear USB ports and a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Five seats with ample rear legroom enhance the appeal of this compact crossover, and its generous 38.7-cu-ft trunk accommodates all your gear. You can use all five seats, or drop the 60:40-split rear seats to carry larger items. Starting at $32,325, the Tucson Hybrid ticks all the right boxes .

The Sports Car: 2024 Mustang GT Coupe

While there may be many options in contention for the title of the best sports car , we maintain when it comes to road trips, the Mustang has them all soundly beaten. A new generation has arrived for 2024, sporting updated styling and a new fighter jet-inspired interior with larger infotainment and digital gauge cluster screens.

Under the hood, the 5.0-liter Coyote V8 has been upgraded and now produces 36 hp more in the 2024 Mustang GT than the old model, totaling 486 hp. It comes with a six-speed manual transmission or an optional 10-speed auto, which may be better suited to long-distance cruising.

Should the road get twisty on your journey, the Mustang GT's combination of power, noise, and agility means an entertaining road trip is in the cards, and the supportive Recaro front seats hold you in place comfortably. Ample rear legroom - yes, it's a four-seater sports car - and a 13.5 cubic foot trunk make it practical too, and since you can get it as a coupe or a convertible, it's perfect for summer road trips.

The Wagon: 2024 Volvo V60 Cross Country

The Volvo V60 Cross Country excels in various aspects such as space, speed, off-road capability, etc. This versatile vehicle is a gem for road trips and an overall top-tier option. Sporting 26 mpg combined from a 250-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with an eight-speed automatic gearbox, its raised ground clearance and AWD give it the ability to tackle dirt roads without the hefty fuel economy of traditional SUVs.

It comes fully equipped with advanced safety features, including a rear cross-traffic alert system and traffic sign recognition, plus semi-autonomous highway driving capabilities. A five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA backs this up and ensures a safe road trip for the whole family.

It boasts an available Wi-Fi hotspot, enhancing connectivity on your journeys and keeping the kids occupied, and its spacious interior means they'll be comfortable for hours. 22.5 cubic feet of trunk space will accommodate suitcases, tents, and more; if you need extra, the fold-down rear seats let you accommodate even more. Additionally, you can add a roof-mounted bicycle rack, perfect for those with an active lifestyle, making it one of the best cars for road-tripping.

The Minivan: 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid

The $51,095 Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid harmoniously blends gas and electric power, catering to road trips with its ample combination of cargo space, people space, and frugality. Furnished with a 3.6-liter V6 augmented by electric power, it produces 260 hp. It lays down this power through a front-wheel drivetrain. If you want AWD, you can have it, but that would require the non-hybrid Pacifica.

Spacious with seating for eight occupants, it looks after the family with advanced safety features like emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane assist, and blind spot monitoring. There's versatility aplenty with Stow 'n Go seating that avails additional cargo space without physically having to remove seats from the minivan, and between 32.3 and 140.5 cubic feet.

A heated steering wheel and three-zome climate control add extra luxury, and the new Pinnacle model adds even more luxury to the road trip experience. The panoramic rearview mirror helps to keep an eye on the kids during the, 'Are we there yet' arguments.

The Truck: 2024 Ford F-150 Raptor

Should road trips in 2023 call for a more 'cross-country' experience, the Ford F-150 Raptor is the only pickup truck for the job. While the allure is strong to go for the TRX-beating Raptor R and its supercharged V8, for road trips, we think the base Raptor is better, thanks to its twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6. Not only do you get 450 hp and 510 lb-ft sent to all corners via a 10-speed automatic gearbox, but you get 15 mpg combined (instead of the R's 12 mpg). You can still tow 8,200 lbs, get a versatile truck bed, and those sweet Fox shocks that can take you to hell and back.

Inside, all F-150 models come with standard features like a 12-inch digital gauge display and Sync 4-enabled infotainment system, soft bucket seats, wireless charging, and 400W USB ports with outlets in both the cab and the bed. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. With five seats, ample power, and go-anywhere capability, the F-150 Raptor is a road-trip truck with no equal.

The Full-Size SUV: 2023 Cadillac Escalade

If you need three rows of seats, a body-on-frame chassis, an abundance of passenger and storage space, and supreme luxury, the Cadillac Escalade may be the best road trip SUV there is, even if it does cost a slip more than $80,000.

With a versatile engine lineup including a Duramax diesel six-cylinder (277 hp/460 lb-ft) and a 6.2-liter V8 (420 hp/460 lb-ft), both saddled with a buttery-smooth 10-speed automatic, the Escalade can tow up to 8,200 lbs, meaning you can take everything with you on holiday. The spacious cabin accommodates a ton of cargo, and an available long-wheelbase ESV variant even makes the third row of seating adult-friendly.

The Escalade is loaded with exceptional tech such as the 38-inch diagonal OLED display encompassing instrumentation and infotainment, and a full-color head-up display. Super Cruise hands-free driving making long-distance trips on the highway a cinch, too.

The Grand Tourer: 2024 Lexus LC Hybrid

We've chosen the LC Hybrid for this list, but we wouldn't fault you for picking any of the LC models. The standard variant packs a sonorous naturally aspirated V8 (coupe and convertible), but for covering distance, the LC 500h's 3.5-liter V6 and twin electric motors still packs a 354-hp punch while consuming considerably less fuel at 29 mpg combined vs. the V8's 19 mpg. It looks achingly gorgeous, too. The downside is an electronic CVT, but with the additional torque of the e-motors, and given the laidback cruising nature of the LC, it's a forgivable offense.

Road trip cars typically need big trunks, and the LC falls short here with only 4.7 cubic feet in hybrid form, but with 2+2 seating in which the rear seats aren't suited for passengers, there's plenty of additional storage space in the cabin.

Packed with Lexus' array of safety systems, and now featuring a decent infotainment system , the car is technologically up-to-date and safe for you and a loved one to hit the road and soak up the miles in comfort and luxury.

The Luxury Sedan: 2024 Audi S8

The 2024 Audi S8 redefines the road trip experience with its blend of luxury and performance. Beneath its hood lies a formidable 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, delivering 563 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. While everyone knows the Mercedes-AMG S63 in this segment, the Audi S8 is seen as more of a sleeper, an understated performance sedan that can lap up the miles without shouting about its 3.8-second 0-60 mph potential. Combined with the nimbleness of its rear-axle steering and the surefootedness of its all-wheel drive, it's the perfect car for almost any occasion.

Whether you're seated up front or reclining in the massaging rear seats, you're swathed in luxury and cutting-edge technology. Plush leather seats provide a sense of opulence, while the MMI Touch Response infotainment system and onboard Wi-Fi hotspot, ensure seamless connectivity and entertainment throughout your road trips, while an optional rear-seat entertainment system keeps passengers engaged on extended journeys.

The only downside is the $120,600 price tag.

The Convertible: 2023 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet

The Porsche Carrera GTS Cabriolet redefines the essence of road trips with its breadth of performance and capability. It's fast, it's comfortable, it's feature-laden, and it even has four seats - what more could you ask for? Beneath its curvaceous exterior lies a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, delivering 473 hp and 420 lb-ft, and with your choice of rear- or all-wheel drive, you get a 0-60 mph time of under 3.4 seconds and all-weather confidence.

Inside, the Carrera GTS Cabriolet pampers occupants with opulent leather seats and a cutting-edge infotainment system, including the Porsche Communication Management system. For audiophiles, the optional Burmester sound system promises exceptional audio quality, enhancing the soundtrack of your road trip.

With a front cargo area measuring 4.7 cubic feet and rear seats that can double as storage in a pinch, there's plenty of space for your luggage. Then, when the weather is right, a 12-second drop of the top lets you feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your skin. When the journey matters more than the destination, few cars do road trips like the 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet.

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The 10 Best Road Trip Cars for Open-Road Adventures

By: Tim Huber Published: Aug 16, 2023

In 1956, the U.S. government passed the Federal-Aid Highway Act, allocating $26B to construct an initial 41,000-mile interstate network . In response to the network’s construction, countless restaurants, motels, and roadside attractions would pop up along these now-iconic highways in order to cater to automotive travelers — ultimately kicking off a grand and long-held tradition of road tripping that’s as American as baseball or apple pie.

And while there are plenty of factors that can have an enormous impact on the overall quality of your time spent on the road — such as your starting point, ultimate destination, travel companions, and budget — the single biggest variable is undoubtedly one’s choice of ride. With the exception of a handful of new EVs , practically every car currently in production is more than capable of taking on cross-country touring duties, however, there’s a shortlist of models that objectively lend themselves to road-tripping far better than anything else on the market. And it’s this crop of vehicles that we’ll be exploring today in this guide to the best road trip cars you can buy — delving into the most capable long-distance cars available, along with what factors and qualities make a model ideal for long-haul travel.

The Best Road Trip Cars Rundown

Best Affordable Pick

Subaru Outback

Best Retro-Inspired

Ford Bronco Sport

Best Two-Door

Abarth 124GT

Best Long-Range Pick

Volvo XC60 Recharge

Best Full-Size SUV

Jeep Grand Wagoneer

Best Sport Wagon

Audi RS 6 Avant Performance

Porsche Taycan GTS Sport Turismo

Best Grand-Tourer

BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive Gran Coupe

Best Hybrid Pick

Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid

Best Mid-Sized SUV

Aston Martin DBX707

Cross-country capabilities.

What Factors Make For An Ideal Road Trip Car?

Though there are clearly several blatant areas to explore when buying a road trip-focused car — such as range, comfort, and cargo space — there’s also a myriad of less obvious, though still massively important elements to take into consideration when shopping in this space. Below, we’ll briefly touch on seven of the most pivotal areas to think about prior to pulling the trigger on your purchase.

Range: Though most of the world’s major highway networks are littered with gas stations and service shops, the reality is that having to exit the freeway and pull over every other hour to fill up isn’t exactly convenient, which is why a car’s range (on a single tank) is of such importance. At the very least, you’ll want a vehicle that affords several hundred miles of autonomy between trips to the pump. This area is even more important for electric cars , as — despite there being close to ten million charging stations scattered across the planet — there are far more gas stations than EV chargers. As such, you’ll not only want to review an EV’s range, but also the charging network that’s available for said EV.

Comfort: Being comfortable in a car is obviously important, though this factor matters far more when dealing with road trip cars, as drivers — and their passenger(s) — typically spend hours at a time inside the cabin of these vehicles. Consequently, this makes a given car’s comfortability level of extreme significance. And while there are dozens of factors that contribute to how comfortable a car is, some of the more important elements to consider are the seats, their construction and upholstery, their level of adjustability, and whether they offer heating, cooling, or massage functions. Additional areas like dual climate control and robust soundproofing can also hugely up a car’s comfortability.

Amenities: While there’s no denying that comfort is a hugely important area when dealing with road trip cars, there are nonetheless a handful of additional features that can very much bolster one’s enjoyment during long-range drives. Alongside amenities like touchscreen infotainment setups and moon/sunroofs, there are also features like web browsers and connectivity to streaming services that can enhance the users’ experience. Likewise, most of today’s best road trip cars also pack advanced suites of electronic driver assists such as forward collision warning and avoidance systems, lane keep assist, blindspot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, just to name a few. Some brands also offer supplementary amenities, like Tesla, which sells cars equipped with features like “Caraoke,” HEPA filtration systems, and of course, the American automaker’s state-of-the-art autopilot system.

Storage: The longer the road trip, the more gear the driver will typically need. As such, the amount of cargo space afforded by a particular vehicle is of utmost importance, as roomier rides will boast more internal real estate for stashing bags and equipment. And, though this is clearly a crucial area to consider when reviewing cars for road trips, it is worth pointing out that one can always supplement a car’s internal square footage with a roof rack or rooftop cargo box, though this option is obviously less convenient — and will often slightly mitigate fuel — or battery — consumption. You’ll also likely want to consider how many people the car seats, as well as how much cargo space is available for each passenger’s bags and gear. Backseat legroom is also a crucial area to consider when reviewing this element.

Reliability & Service Intervals: The reality is that the vast majority of new cars are incredibly reliable and should have no issue driving cross country several times over. With that said, there are some models with better reputations when it comes to overall reliability. Additionally, if you plan to use this vehicle for extensive road-tripping, you’ll also want to look into the model’s required service intervals, as these figures can hugely vary. And, whether it’s a road trip car or a daily commuter — or even a motorcycle — it’s always worth looking into whether any recalls have been issued for a particular model.

Manufacturer & Dealer Support: When going on a road trip, not only is it important to review how often a car needs to be serviced but also where it can be serviced, as some makes will boast a markedly more robust dealership and support network should you need a part repaired or replaced. This extends to areas like the availability of roadside assistance offered by a marque. It’s also worth pointing out that rarer and more exotic models will make for a much more difficult time sourcing replacement parts – as it’s not that hard to find a replacement component for a BMW car just about anywhere in the country, though the same can’t be said for models from brands like Bentley or Aston Martin.

Drivetrain & Performance: Unlike commuting where the main objective is simply to get from A to B, long-range road-tripping is all about enjoying the journey and embracing the open road. As such, having a car that affords a more spirited driving experience makes for a markedly more enjoyable time behind the wheel, which is why reviewing a model’s engine is so important. Alongside the engine configuration itself, you’ll also want to check out its aspiration type and displacement — as well as horsepower and torque figures, 0-60mph times, and top speeds. A car’s suspension package is another crucial area to consider, as it will directly impact a model’s overall handling, as well as the smoothness of the ride. Quite a few cars also offer the best of both worlds with adjustable air ride suspension setups that can be lowered for spirited runs through the canyons, or raised back up for ultra-smooth and plush freeway travel.

Long-Haul Legends

The Best Road Trip Cars Currently On The Market

Now that you’re up to speed on what areas to take into consideration when shopping, let’s get into our picks for the finest and most well-appointed new road trip cars that are currently available on showroom floors.

An affordably-priced, rugged and spacious wagon with raised roof rails, 8.7” of ground clearance, & Subaru’s Starlink multimedia package all as standard.

Best Affordable Pick: One of the most versatile vehicles currently on the market, the latest generation Subaru Outback is a fantastic road trip car with seating for five, more than 75 cubic feet of cargo space, and an optional turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer engine. With features like 9.5” of ground clearance and asymmetrical all-wheel drive as standard, the Outback is also capable of some light off-roading duties .

Engine: Turbocharged 2.4L Boxer Four or NA 2.5L Boxer Four Power: 260HP & 277FT-LBs or 182HP & 176FT-LBs Cargo Space: 75.7 Cubic feet Range: 600+ Miles Seats: 5 MSRP: $28,895

A road-focused variant of Ford’s revived retro-inspired SUV that still packs Hoss suspension & cutting-edge electronics.

Best Retro-Inspired: One of the most anticipated new models from the last decade, Ford’s revived Bronco platform is a 4×4 vehicle that comes with more than 65 cubic feet of cargo space, an advanced electronics package, Hoss suspension, and nearly 9” of ground clearance. Sold in a variety of trim levels, the Sport-spec Bronco was also intentionally designed to be as modular as possible — an area furthered by the absolutely enormous range of factory accessories offered for the American SUV .

Engine: Turbocharged 1.5L Inline-Three or Turbocharged 2.0L Inline Four Power: 181HP & 190FT-LBs or 250HP & 277FT-LBs Cargo Space: 65.2 Cubic Feet Range: 416 Miles Seats: 5 MSRP: $31,230

An Abarth-specFiat 124 Spyder with a Garrett turbo, Bilstein shocks, & Brembo brakes all as standard.

Best Two-Door: Sharing its platform with the Mazda Miata, the Fiat 124 Spyder is the definition of a true driver’s car , standing as a peppy open-top roaster that can be had for a reasonable price. For those less concerned with cost, the company also makes the Abarth 124GT — a limited-edition variant with a Garrett Turbocharged engine, a dedicated sport mode, Bilstein shocks, Brembo brakes, 17” alloy wheels, special race seats, and a GT-specific slate gray livery. Sadly, the GT-spec isn’t offered on American shores, unlike the base model 124.

Engine: Turbocharged 1.5L Inline-Four Power: 170HP & 184.4FT-LBs Cargo Space: 4.94 Cubic Feet Range: 535 Miles Seats: 2 MSRP: $44,085

A luxurious Swedish-made hybrid mid-sized SUV with a more than 500-mile range per tank.

Best Long-Range Pick: A plug-in hybrid version of Volvo’s mid-sized SUV, the XC60 Recharge is a wildly-advanced vehicle that boasts features like best-in-class navigation, an optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system, a built-in Google smart assistant, and a state-of-the-art onboard air filter. Equipped with an all-wheel-drive setup, the five-seater’s turbocharged 2.0-liter hybrid inline-four generates more than 450hp and 523ft-lbs of torque, allowing for a machine that’s equal parts comfortable and exhilarating.

Engine: Turbocharged 2.0L Hybrid Inline-Four Power: 455HP & 523FT-LBs Cargo Space: 63.3 Cubic Feet Range: 520 Miles (or 32 Battery Only) Seats: 5 MSRP: $57,900

A revived take on Jeep’s legendary full-sized luxury SUV that sports a 6.4L V8, an AWD system, & over 116 cubic feet of storage space.

Best Full-Size SUV: First unveiled in March of last year, the Jeep Grand Wagoneer is a revived full-size SUV that, like the original model, offers the pinnacle of comfort and class. Returning after 30 years out of production, the Grand Wagoneer comes with quilted Palermo leather seats, a 6.4L V8 mated to one of three AWD systems, over 116 cubic feet of storage and cargo space, a 10,000lb towing capacity, and an ultra-top shelf McIntosh MX950 Entertainment System — all as standard fare.

Engine: 6.4L V8 Power: 470HP & 455FT-LBs Cargo Space: 116.7 Cubic Feet Range: 477 Miles Seats: 7 MSRP: $91,140

An ultra-potent family-hauler & grocery getter with a 621-hp bi-turbo V8 offering 3.3-second 0-60 runs and a 190-mph top speed.

Best Sport Wagon: The Audi RS 6 Avant is an ultra-high-performance sleeper that’s conducive to everything from track days to family-hauling duties to road trips. Alongside RS-spec components and wheels, this highly up-specced model comes adorned in a slammed stance with a full aero kit, a carbon trim package, nearly 60 cubic feet of cargo space, and, most importantly, a 621-hp 4.0-liter bi-turbo V8 that enables this elite sport wagon to achieve a 3.3-second 0-60mph time and a top speed of 190mph.

Engine: Twin-Turbocharged 4.0L V8 Power: 621HP & 627FT-LBs Cargo Space: 59.3 Cubic Feet Range: 425 Miles Seats: 5 MSRP: $125,800

A streamlined, 911-inspired shooting brake-style version of Porsche’s mighty new fully-electric four-door.

Best EV: Marking the Stuttgart firm’s first-ever all-electric offering, the Taycan GTS Sport Turismo is unequivocally one of the very best road trip cars currently in production. It offers an incredibly smooth ride, an impressive 300-mile range, and a decent amount of cargo space thanks to the extended sport back. Thanks to an ultra-potent 440kW EV powertrain setup and Overboost power with a launch control function, the GTS Sport Turismo-spec Taycan can reach 60mph from a standstill in 3.5 seconds flat.

Engine: Dual Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors Power: 440kW (590HP) & 626FT-LBs Cargo Space: 42.8 Cubic Feet Range: 313 Miles Seats: 5 MSRP: $141,200

A 612-hp ALPINA-tuned & upgraded grand touring car based on BMW’s already luxurious & thoroughly-capable 8 Series.

Best Grand-Tourer: While to the average observer, this road trip car may just look like a BMW 8 Series, those in the know are well aware of the ultra-top-shelf exotics offered by famed tuning outfit ALPINA. This high-end grand tourer’s ALPINA transformation includes 21″ ALPINA wheels, ALPINA 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes, an ALPINA Aerodynamic Kit, an ALPINA Sport suspension package with twin-tube gas-pressure shocks, double-wishbone multi-link aluminum suspension in front, and an integral-V multi-link aluminum setup in the rear, and an interior with ALPINA Lavalina leather steering wheel, engraved glass controls, and a unique digital instrument cluster. Finally, at the heart of this car is a 4.4-liter bi-turbo V8 that’s been tuned by ALPINA to produce 612hp and 590ft-lbs of torque.

Engine: Twin-Turbocharged 4.4L V8 Power: 612HP & 590FT-LBs Cargo Space: 15.5 Cubic Feet (Trunk Only) Range: 432 Miles Seats: 5 MSRP: $149,300

A hybrid-boosted bi-turbo 4.0-liter V8-powered version of Bentley’s normally V12-powered flagship model that retains its world-class luxury.

Best Hybrid Pick: The Bentley Flying Spur has long been one of the most luxurious and well-optioned cars on the market, making it an objectively fantastic choice for road-tripping — assuming you can swing its fairly exorbitant MSRP. However, last summer, the famed British firm rolled out a new version of the car that sees its usual V12 and V8 engine options swapped out in favor of a hybrid-boosted bi-turbo 4.0-liter V8 that makes 542hp and 568ft-lbs of torque and allows for a top speed of 177mph and a 0-60mph time of just 4.1-seconds. This hybrid luxury car also offers a range of 435 miles — or an all-electric range of 25 miles, if you want to go green for a portion of your trip.

Engine: Twin-Turbocharged 2.9L Hybrid V6 Power: 542HP & 568FT-LBs Cargo Space: 12.4 Cubic Feet (Trunk Only) Range: 435 Miles (or 25 Miles Battery Only) Seats: 5 MSRP: $210,600

A 707-hp mid-sized SUV boasting genuine supercar-grade performance with a 193-mph top speed & a 3.3-second 0-60 time.

Best Mid-Sized SUV: First unveiled in early February of 2022, the Aston Martin DBX707 represents the world’s most powerful luxury SUV . Taking its name from its 707-hp output, the DBX707 is another ultra-high-end vehicle that boasts a unique mix of world-class comfort and performance. Alongside a 360-mile range and a decent amount of cargo space, the DBX707 also packs a 4.0-liter bi-turbo V8 engine that’s mated to a 9-speed “wet clutch” automatic transmission and allows for 3.3 seconds 0-60mph runs and an impressive top speed of 193mph — a fairly insane figure considering this is an SUV.

Engine: Twin-Turbocharged 4.0L V8 Power: 707HP & 664FT-LBs Cargo Space: 54 Cubic Feet Range: 360 Miles Seats: 5 MSRP: $236,000

The Best SUVs for Camping

Want to check out an additional selection of vehicles that are great for recreational use? Then be sure to cruise over to our guide to the best SUVs for camping for the most comfortable and well-appointed rolling base camp options.

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Best Road Trip Cars: Top 10

Hitting the open road; there isn’t much that matches this feeling of freedom and adventure.

The great North American road trip is as old as the invention of the automobile itself. For over a century people have gotten behind the wheel to explore all our expansive continent has to offer.

Today it’s easy to board a plane and fly virtually anywhere in the world. But it doesn’t offer the same sights, sounds, and experiences as driving through the mountain passes, vast canyons, and twisting ocean drives in our own backyard.

Modern vehicles have made these journeys more enjoyable than ever too. Massaging seats, driving assists, crisp audio systems, and climate controlled seats are just a few of luxurious found in a plethora of automobiles. But what are the best road trip cars? There’s different answers for different people. Below we’ve selected 10 great choices that should offer a great solution for most.

Buick Enclave

For passengers, the best road trip cars need one thing above all else – comfort. When it comes to three-row SUVs, not many provide a more pleasing ride than the Buick Enclave . By eschewing any sporty pretences, the Enclave is set up to isolate occupants from the world outside. Expansion gaps, broken pavement, and rough concrete are swallowed up by the suspension making any road surface feel buttery smooth.

Great sound isolation and a V6 engine that’s rarely strained adds to the relaxed, cruiser feel of the Enclave. If hour after hour of freeway slogging encompasses your larger family’s road trip, this Buick is worth a consideration.

Chevrolet Suburban Diesel

Some road trips involve a couple taking a jaunt down a coastal highway. Others involve a large family, their pets, all their gear, and a sizeable trailer being hauled through the mountains. The Chevrolet Suburban diesel is a vehicle for the latter. With tremendous levels of torque, expansive levels of interior room, and respectable fuel economy, this is about as close as you can get to taking your house on the road.

Up to nine passengers can fit in the Suburban and towing capacity can reach 8,200 lbs. Plus, this big Chevrolet drives smaller than its size suggests, making it approachable for a variety of drivers.

Ford Mustang Convertible

Now we’ll change gears to the best road trip cars for two. When hitting the open byways along picturesque landscapes on a beautiful day, nothing beats driving a convertible. Drop tops are few and far between these days, but one icon remains; the legendary Ford Mustang . Taking a drive down the pacific coastal highway in California behind the wheel of a Mustang is something everyone should experience at least once. Ford’s pony car can even accommodate two small rear passengers if a young family is looking for an adventure.

This may not be the first choice for long distance, multi-day cruising. But wheeling a Mustang from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon on a warm spring day sounds great to us.

Honda Civic

Not everyone needs a large SUV or a sports car for an enjoyable road trip. Plenty of smaller vehicles are up for task, proving ample comfort, space, and impressive fuel economy. Chief amongst these choices is our favorite compact car here at AutoGuide, the Honda Civic . Available in a variety of flavors, the sweet spot for long distance driving is either the sedan or hatchback with the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine.

It provides plenty of power for the small car and sips gas. The car is fun enough to drive, but supple enough to not punish passengers. A premium interior is just the icing on the cake. The hatchback is the more practical choice of the two body styles and our personal pick. But really, one can’t go wrong with either Civic.

Kia Sportage Hybrid

The hottest segment right now is compact SUVs, even if these utility vehicles aren’t all that compact anymore. Being the primary vehicle for millions of families, many of these smaller SUVs will see duty as the transportation choice during vacation getaways. With so many options on the market, what is one to choose? Our current recommendation is the Kia Sportage , specifically the hybrid.

With ample power and impressive fuel economy, the Sportage features a sophisticated interior that delivers near mid-size levels of space. It’s also one of the more comfortable rides in the segment which should keep passengers happy.

Lexus ES 300h

Moving back to cars, the Honda Civic and Ford Mustang might not provide enough interior space or ride comfort for everyone’s taste. A great alternative for these road trippers would be the Lexus ES 300h . It’s one of the most supple riding, smooth driving sedans out there that just happens to also be very fuel efficient.

Like the Buick Enclave, the ES 300h eats up mile after mile of road without fatiguing the driver or its occupants. The Lexus’ focus is on comfort, refinement, and sound isolation rather than driving dynamics, which makes it a perfect long-distance cruising partner.

So far we covered gas, diesel, and a lot of hybrid choices. But what if you want to take a road trip in an electric vehicle? Many might scoff at this idea, but there are EVs on sale now that have surprising levels of range. Vehicles like the Lucid Air Grand Touring with a maximum range of 516 miles. That should give drivers a full day’s worth of driving before the car would need a charge.

The Lucid Air doesn’t come cheap though, with the Grand Touring beginning at a price of $138,000. A more affordable option, albeit with less range, is the Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD that can travel 358 miles on a single charge and should cost under $60,000.

Not all road trips involve driving to a destination with accommodations. Some adventures include bringing the accommodations with you, like a big fifth-wheel travel trailer. For this task, a vehicle with enough interior space for a family as well as enough towing capacity to haul such a trailer is needed. This is the realm of full-size pick up trucks.

Our choice is the Ram 1500 . With the adjustable air suspension, the Ram features very un-truck-like ride comfort, yet can still do truck things. With the efficient and torquey EcoDiesel engine, the Ram 1500 can tow upwards of 9,600 lbs. when properly equipped. If that’s not enough capability, there is the gasoline 5.7-liter V8 Hemi with a mild hybrid system that can pull upwards of 12,750 lbs.

Subaru Outback

Once upon a time, the best road trip cars were ruled by wagons. But the segment is nearly dead, with very few options left. One choice that is still available is a great one; the Subaru Outback . As a lifted crossover, this wagon-on-stilts features a long travel suspension that swallows up all but the worst road imperfections. The long wheelbase prevents the vehicle from wandering on the freeway and in the grandest of Subaru traditions, the Outback has fantastic sight-lines all around.

Being a wagon, there is amble room for passengers in the rear and their cargo behind them. The entry level engine, although good on gas, might be a bit overmatched for a fully-loaded Outback. Luckily, there is a punchy turbocharged option as well.

Toyota Sienna

Part of the reason station wagons demised as the go-to-choice for the best road trip cars was the invention of the minivan. But the practical people haulers have since fallen out of favor as well, and few choices exist on the market. The ones that are left are all very appealing and can’t be beat in terms of passenger space, cargo capability, and ease of operation.

Our recommendation for a road trip minivan is the Toyota Sienna . With a standard hybrid engine, the Sienna is surprisingly efficient and should travel long distances between fill-ups. There is also optional all-wheel drive, a major plus if your road trip involves a wintery chalet escape. New this year is the Woodland Edition that offers additional ground clearance for even more rough-road capability.

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A 20+ year industry veteran, Mike rejoins the AutoGuide team as the Managing Editor. He started his career at a young age working at dealerships, car rentals, and used car advertisers. He then found his true passion, automotive writing. After contributing to multiple websites for several years, he spent the next six years working at the head office of an automotive OEM, before returning back to the field he loves. He is a member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), and Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA). He's the recipient of a feature writing of the year award and multiple video of the year awards.

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The best road trip cars

Nothing picks up your mood faster than taking a long and relaxing road trip somewhere you love. But not every car is well suited to life on the road, and when you’re headed out for a long trip, the last thing you want is a car that can’t handle it. When you are ready to embark on a journey around the country, these cars have what it takes to help you enjoy the ride.

2020 Subaru Crosstrek

2020 honda hr-v, 2020 ford mustang gt convertible, tesla model 3, chevrolet bolt, 2020 ferrari gtc4lusso, 2020 volvo xc90, 2020 toyota prius, 2020 mazda mx-5, 2020 jaguar f-type convertible, lexus ls 400, volkswagen westfalia camper, ford crown victoria.

The best road trip cars have comfortable seats, lots of entertainment features, and plenty of room for all of your gear. Here are the best cars you can take on a long trip.

A good road trip car must be reliable, practical, capable, and fun, and few automakers satisfy those requirements better than Subaru. We’d love to take a WRX STI cross country, but the fuel-sipping Crosstrek makes our list for its rugged construction and well-rounded character. Plus, there’s plenty of room for speed and spoilers later.

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With fuel economy ratings of 27 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, the Crosstrek is an apt choice for couples or small families looking to log some serious highway miles. All-wheel drive is standard, of course, and with 8.7 inches of ground clearance, this compact crossover will go just about anywhere you need it to, on or off the interstate.

With the Fit, Honda proved a good value doesn’t always come with squished proportions and a chintzy interior. And, with the Fit-based HR-V , the Japanese firm added an extra dose of practicality to the mix.

Honda’s smallest crossover boasts 6.7 inches of ride height and an ingenious “Magic Seat” interior layout, which allows passengers to configure the cabin in five different modes — normal, split, tall, utility, and lounge. That means the car can easily ferry anything, whether it be luggage, bikes, tall plants, or even surfboards.

The HR-V’s biggest asset is its relatively low cost, which comes both at the dealer (starting MSRP is $20,620) and at the pump (it returns up to 28 mpg city/34 mpg highway when ordered with front-wheel drive). Throw in a plethora of safety features and you’re all set.

What goes better with a great American road trip than an emblematic American car? Nothing, that’s what. The Ford Mustang GT is a legend through and through, and the sixth-generation model is the most refined version yet. It has the best interior of any pony car before it, and with an independent suspension setup front and rear, this horse can corner with the best of ‘em. Ford recently updated the model with more tech features, too, including an available digital instrument cluster that will let you keep an eye on key road trip metrics such as speed, distance to empty, and the tunes blasting through the speakers.

Let’s be honest, you don’t need a thumping V8 soundtrack for a successful road trip, nor do you need the open wind rustling through your hair. You definitely want them, though, and the Mustang GT Convertible happens to provide both. “GT” does stand for “Grand Tourer,” after all.

For years, electric cars and road-tripping were mutually exclusive; range anxiety kicked in before you got a chance to leave your state. Advances in battery technology make the latest crop of electric vehicles better-suited to long drives. The Tesla Model 3 has up to 322 miles of driving range in its Dual Motor Long Range configuration, so you can drive from Detroit to Indianapolis without needing to stop and charge.

When you do need to fill up, you can rely on Tesla’s growing network of Supercharger stations. There are thousands of charging points in each state so finding one is a breeze, especially if you plan ahead. Clever features — such as in-car gaming and Netflix streaming — will help you pass the time while your car sips electricity.

If a Tesla isn’t your thing, or if the Model 3 is too expensive, the Chevrolet Bolt is another great option for those seeking a zero-emissions road-tripper. It offers 259 miles of range, so it can drive from New York City to Washington, D.C., in ideal conditions, and it’s spacious enough to comfortably carry a full load of passengers and their gear.

You can zap the Bolt’s battery with about 100 miles of range every 30 minutes when it’s plugged into a DC fast charger, a type of station that’s getting much easier to find as America’s charging infrastructure expands, though keep in mind you’ll need a special charging port Chevrolet charges extra for. Alternatively, if you’re not in a rush, the Bolt gains 25 miles of range per hour plugged in when it’s hooked up to a 240-volt level two charger, which you can find outside of many hotels, restaurants, and other businesses.

Ah, the practical Ferrari. The successor to the FF , the GTC4Lusso is a grand tourer in every sense of the word, as its gorgeously-appointed interior and quiet ride are offset by a 681-hp V12 and a trick four-wheel steering system. It does “GT” a bit differently, however, as the three-door configuration and shooting brake profile make this a head-turner in more ways than one.

It may not have the storage capacity of an SUV (though Ferrari is working on that ) or the fuel economy of a hybrid, but the GTC4Lusso is as easy to drive in the city as it is on the Italian autostrada, and the brilliant V12 will never, ever get old. These are the keys to life, folks, and don’t let anyone ever tell you differently. This machine speaks tech , too. Ferrari recently added a large screen with a split-view function, as well as Apple CarPlay compatibility.

We know Volvo can build safe, sophisticated, and elegant machines, but the levels of opulence found in the XC90 make us rethink our outlook on the brand entirely. Not only is the XC90’s interior one of the best we’ve ever seen in an SUV, its smart technology and excellent efficiency make it a no-brainer if you prefer your road trips with a group.

The available Bowers & Wilkins sound system is nothing short of fantastic in this car (a key factor for this list), and it can be shuffled between a variety of listening modes, including studio, concert hall, and stadium. The XC90 also features polished semi-autonomous technology for laid-back driving, and the tablet-style touchscreen interface is one of the most intuitive units on the market. Throw in an efficient T8 powertrain that combines a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with a plug-in hybrid system and you have the ultimate long-haul cruiser for up to seven people.

While most of the vehicles on this list emphasize fun, style, or practicality, the Toyota Prius is nearly singular in its goal: Maximum fuel economy. The most fuel-efficient car on the road without a plug, the Eco model returns up to 58 mpg on the freeway and flaunts a total range of more than 600 miles. In a word? Wow.

Toyota made notable enhancements to interior quality and driving dynamics over the previous generation, improvements that will be appreciated if you’re forced to sit in the car for extended periods. Looking to save at the pump? The Prius is your best bet. Select the plug-in Prime model if you’re looking to add a few miles of electric-only driving to your trip without stopping to charge a battery-electric car.

The Mazda MX-5 Miata wrote the book on the modern roadster, so it’d be a travesty if we didn’t include it. The long-standing sports car is as close to perfect as an inexpensive two-seater can be, with an expertly-balanced chassis, a fantastic six-speed manual, and a tangible passion for driving you can actually feel through the steering. It’s one of the few cars that hasn’t gotten significantly bigger or heavier since its inception.

There aren’t a ton of bells and whistles here, but that’s not the point. The MX-5 is about escapism done simply, and it emphasizes that better than just about any car on the market. It’s best suited for solo or short two-person trips, but the fourth-generation model features just enough modern gadgetry to keep you busy if the brilliant engineering isn’t enough.

Ok, we needed at least one more convertible for our list, and Jaguar’s stunning F-Type is one of the most evocative drop-tops ever put to pavement. It has the look, it has the sound — my goodness, the sound — and most importantly, it has the feeling. It’s also fast, agile, and surprisingly refined, as the suspension can be tuned depending on what surface you’re rocketing over.

Practicality takes a back seat in this one (if there were back seats, that is), but people don’t buy V8-powered convertibles because of logic or reason. They buy them because they’re beautiful, stirring, and create a new experience every time you press the start button. Hell, if all you need is to get somewhere quickly and you can’t live without your three favorite suitcases, you’d probably just buy a plane ticket. For the rest of us, open up the throttle and enjoy the ride.

With the new cars out the way, let’s take a short look back at a few legacy options. Lexus’ first vehicle, the LS 400 , was the product of a project called Circle F , which was Toyota chairman Eiji Toyoda’s vision to build the world’s best car. The result was something that shockingly still feels modern today, with a buttery ride, rock-solid reliability, and a tasteful interior that has stood the test of time. Speaking of sturdiness, the sedan’s 4.0-liter V8 is the only automobile engine to be rated by the FAA, meaning the 260-hp power plant is tough enough to power a plane. Seriously.

Impressive credentials aside, used LS400’s can be found for less than a few thousand dollars nowadays, which is an absolute steal for the amount of car you’re getting. Throw in reasonable fuel economy ratings of 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway and you might have the best budget road trip car in the world.

The Volkswagen Westfalia Camper is a hotel on wheels.

Westfalia is a German company that, for about 50 years from the 1950s, made a name for itself in the vehicle-as-living-space world. Westfalia created innovative liveable quarters made to fit inside Volkswagen’s iconic vans. Their configurations included pop-up camper designs, folding tables and chairs, portable toilets, sinks, stoves, and refrigerators. Daimler Chrysler purchased Westfalia’s conversion group in 1999.

The Ford Crown Victoria – or “Crown Vic” – is an iconic car known for its longevity and surprisingly large interior. Most people recognize them from classic movies or old-school taxicabs.

Range: 1,500 feet
Paging: One-way communication

If you’re looking for a basic, straightforward system that does what it needs to without costing an arm and a leg, Audiovox has got you covered. It features a decent range of approximately 1,500 feet, which should be adequate for most motorists. It has three-button remotes that only offer one-way communication, making it the perfect fit for motorists seeking an easy-to-use system.

The Audiovox is as effective and dependable as it is simple. You can program it to ignite the engine, thereby warming it up for as little as 5 minutes or as long as an hour, depending on your preferences. Audiovox’s APS57Z also lets you lock and unlock the car and pop the trunk open, as long as you are standing within range. You can use the Audiovox on fuel-powered as well as hybrid cars, and it’s CarLink capabilities allow it to sync up with your smartphone.

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Buying Guides

Owning and leasing a vehicle used to be the two primary ways to get behind the wheel. However, that's starting to change with the advent of car subscription services. These plans essentially take leasing to the extreme, covering every aspect of car ownership aside from the cost of fuel. That means you won't have to worry about unexpected expenses related to insurance or maintenance, as your single monthly payment takes care of all those headaches.

If you plan on driving a single vehicle for a long time, owning a car is undoubtedly a more frugal option. After all, there's nothing better for your wallet than having a paid off car. But if you can't be bothered to worry about the stresses of modern car ownership -- or you love checking out a new vehicle every few months -- car subscription plans are a nice alternative.

Whether you do your driving with an off-road vehicle, one of the most impressive EVs on the road, or anything in between, the driving experience can be made all the better by knowing you look good doing so. Keeping your vehicle clean isn’t always the easiest chore, nor is it something everyone likes to do. You can make shorter work of it with a pressure washer, and with warmer weather around the corner we decided to round up the best pressure washers for cars in 2024. The best pressure washers for cars in 2024

Buy the if you want the best pressure washer for cars overall. Buy the if you want the best gas-powered pressure washer for cars. Buy the if you want the best handheld pressure washer for cars. But the if you want the best budget pressure washer for cars.

In-car technology is advancing more quickly than anyone imagined, and it's also easier to upgrade an older car with Bluetooth and other cutting-edge features than it's ever been. Numerous aftermarket companies allow motorists to benefit from useful connectivity and safety features without having to buy a new car. In fact, Bluetooth has become a cheap, easy upgrade on any vehicle regardless of its age or value.

Bluetooth can be used to make phone calls (it channels the conversation through your car's speakers) or to stream music directly from your smartphone, though some of the more basic systems are limited to calls. Either way, it's a feature that significantly reduces distractions and allows the driver to keep both hands on the steering wheel at all times. That's why most states have laws that require hands-free calling while driving.

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10 best cars for long-distance driving

April 21, 2023 by Carwow staff

Regularly take lengthy journeys? Here are 10 great cars you could consider

Improvements in engineering and technology mean even a supermini is capable of undertaking any trip you care to ask of it, but those who regularly cover big distances are likely to want something that’s capable of eating up the miles in supreme comfort, as well as having plenty of driver aids and tech.

But it’s no use a car being comfortable if it’s going to cost you the Earth to fuel. So our 10 best cars for long-distance driving combine refinement and efficiency, helping you arrive unruffled, but without having spent a painful amount on fuel.

Speaking of which, while diesel cars offer great MPG, we appreciate some may not be keen on a car that requires the black pump, so have included a variety of powertrains here.

In time, electric cars will become more popular for long-distance driving as range and charging infrastructure improve, but for now most people who undertake regular long journeys will be better-suited to petrol and diesel models. We’ve included a couple of the best EVs for long-distance drivers, though, because if you can charge at home and can avoid pricey public charging too often they should work out cheaper in the long run…

Here are 10 of the best cars for long-distance drivers:

Ideal long-distance spec: eDrive40, up to 357 miles of range
Really comfortable for hours behind the wheel
Impressive range
Rapid charging for quick motorway battery top-ups

The BMW 5 Series has long been the go-to choice for those who spend hours behind the wheel, driving up and down motorways for a living. So it should, perhaps, be no surprise that the introduction of the i5 has seen this trend continue. Go for the eDrive40 model and you get brisk performance, a comfortable, high-tech interior and a quiet driving experience.

You could go for the high-performance M60 model, which still has an impressive official range of up to 315 miles, but you’re unlikely to get anywhere near that if you enjoy the epic power from time to time. Instead, the more affordable eDrive40 version should get you comfortably over 300 miles between top ups in the real world, and with a maximum DC charge rate of 205kW, it only takes half an hour to charge from 10-80% capacity. Just enough time for a toilet break and a coffee on a road trip.

2. Skoda Superb

Ideal long-distance spec: 2.0-litre TDI 150hp, 57.7 mpg
Huge amounts of space, comfort and refinement
Frugal diesel and punchy petrol engines
Strong value for money

Skoda’s flagship model really lives up to its name – it’s superb. You get high levels of comfort and refinement, plus vast amounts of interior space – the rear seats of the Superb really do give cars like the Mercedes S-Class a run for their money.

A new model is set to go on sale in 2024, but if you can’t wait the outgoing model offers fantastic value. We’d opt for the 2.0-litre 150hp diesel engine for its 57mpg fuel efficiency, while going for SE L trim will get you adaptive cruise control, blind spot assistance and a driver fatigue sensor, all of which will help those long trips pass by in an instant. The Estate, meanwhile, has one of the biggest boots in the business.

3. Range Rover

Ideal long-distance spec: D300, 36.7 mpg
Lofty driving position gives great visibility
Few cars are as comfortable on a long journey
Latest model is dripping with helpful tech

It may require pretty deep pockets, but it would be impossible to not include the Range Rover in our list of long-distance cars, thanks to the armchair-like seats and the high driving position that is often imitated but never bettered.

The 3.0-litre diesel engine is available with 300 or 350hp and returns around 30-35mpg in the real world, while the plug-in hybrids can cover up to 70 miles on battery power alone, and officially return over 300mpg (though getting close to this will require regular plugging in, and economy will dive further on the motorway once you’ve depleted the battery). Noise-cancelling speakers contribute to a hushed driving experience, while a high-end Meridian sound system, adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assistance are among the features that help make long trips even more effortless.

4. Citroen C5 X

Ideal long-distance spec: PureTech 130, 46mpg
Very comfortable over bumps
Stylish and practical interior
Usefully big boot

Wherever you take the Citroen C5 X it’s incredibly comfortable, largely because of the comfort-focused suspension that means bumps in the road feel like driving over squishy marshmallow. But it’s out on the open road where the C5 X really comes into its own, because the quiet cabin serves up the refinement of much pricier models.

There are only two engines on offer, and it’s the petrol that will be better for long-distance drivers, with fuel economy of 46mpg in official tests. There is a plug-in hybrid with temptingly high economy stats, but the battery isn’t very big so you will run out of electric power very quickly on the motorway, making your MPG figure nosedive.

5. Honda Civic

Ideal long-distance spec: 2.0 i-MMD Hybrid, 60.1mpg
Impressive efficiency
Great to drive
Quiet at a cruise

It’s not just big, expensive cars that make for good long-distance driving companions. The Honda Civic is a prime example of this, because it’s great to drive whether you’re on a twisty road or cruising down the motorway, but it’s still pretty affordable to buy.

Your only engine option is a self-charging hybrid, which promises excellent fuel economy and seems to be capable of spending a lot of time running on electric power even on longer trips. That means you can set the standard-fit adaptive cruise control and relax in the quiet cabin without having to worry about burning through petrol once the battery’s dead.

6. Mercedes E-Class

Ideal long-distance spec: E 220 d, 59mpg
About as comfortable and refined as it gets
Packed full of technology
Spacious and practical

You might think the Mercedes S-Class is the ultimate long-distance Mercedes, and while you might not be wrong, it’s arguably better if you’re sitting in the rear seats. That’s why the E-Class is our pick if you need to churn through the miles yourself.

The new E-Class went on sale in 2023 and it’s closer than ever to being a baby S-Class. It’s cheaper (but far from cheap) while being just about as comfortable and packed full of all the technology you could ever need. You can even get it with a diesel engine still, though you would have to be a high-mileage driver for it to work out cheaper than petrol in the long run.

7. Tesla Model 3

Ideal long-distance spec: Model 3 Long Range, up to 390 miles of range
Tesla’s Supercharger network appeals
More comfortable than ever before

The Tesla Model 3 has been one of the best electric cars at any budget for a few years now, and despite the fact there have been dozens more alternatives cropping up for sale recently, it’s still one of the very best – especially since a fairly comprehensive update was introduced in late 2023. What’s most important for long distance drivers is that the Model 3 is now more comfortable and quieter than the old version, making it even more relaxing to drive. And you still get access to Tesla’s excellent Supercharger network.

If you want to make your motorway mileage more stress free, go for the Enhanced Autopilot upgrade. It’s fairly pricey, but gives you an advanced cruise control system that keeps pace with the car in front and can even change lanes for you. New features, such as automatic parking, are coming soon and will be automatically added over your home WiFi. Full-Self Driving is the highest assistance offering from Tesla, but it doesn’t quite offer what the name suggests, and it’s very expensive for something that doesn’t add much over the cheaper system in the UK right now.

8. Volvo XC90

Ideal long-distance spec: B6 AWD Mild Hybrid, 32.5mpg
About as safe as cars get
Room for seven people
Relaxing to drive

If you spend a lot of time on the road, or have big journeys planned, it’s not just comfort and efficiency that are key concerns, it’s also safety – especially if you have your family along for the trip. That’s where the Volvo XC90 comes into its own, because it’s big and relaxing to drive, but also comes with all the safety kit you could reasonably want. It’s not quite as quiet and comfortable over bumps as you might expect, but the positives outweigh these negatives.

You can’t get a diesel engine, but the B6 petrol engine is more than up to the task of lugging this big old SUV about and cruising quietly at speed. You could go for the plug-in hybrid, but as with the Citroen, its electric range isn’t great so you will notice economy drop quite a bit on a long drive.

9. Volkswagen Golf

Ideal long-distance spec: 2.0-litre TDI 150hp, 62.8 mpg
Fantastic refinement for a hatchback
Wide range of engines suits all tastes
Plenty of driver assistance tech, too

It may seem odd to have a relatively small car nestled among this list, but the Volkswagen Golf has long been an impressively refined car for its size, and the eighth-generation version is no exception to this.

Choose from everything from an efficient yet peppy 1.0-litre petrol engine to the 320hp performance-orientated Golf R, though long-distance travellers may well favour the 150hp 2.0-litre diesel thanks to its official 62.8mpg figure. A head-up display, adaptive cruise control, fatigue assistance and a variety of lane-change assistance systems will help take the strain out of the drive, too.

10. Toyota Supra

Ideal long-distance spec: 2.0 Pro, 39.7mpg
Strong engines and sharp looks
A proper two-seat grand tourer
Genuinely impressive ride comfort

All of the cars we’ve featured so far presume you want or need to undertake long journeys and be able to carry multiple passengers and plenty of luggage, but some buyers will undoubtedly be making solo trips on a regular basis, and want something a little more spirited and stylish.

Step forward the Toyota Supra, which is more of a grand tourer than an outright sports car , offering excellent ride comfort, excellent interior technology, and an appealing 3.0-litre engine. True, the latter two aspects come courtesy of BMW, with whom the Supra was co-developed, but that just means you get an excellent infotainment system and driver tech, plus a great-sounding and potent six-cylinder engine. There’s also a 2.0-litre four cylinder petrol engine, which returns 39.7mpg.

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The 8 best cars for long-distance driving in 2024.

Source: Pixabay

Whether you have a family or do a lot of work in many places, long-distance cars provide the stamina and fuel efficiency for long drives. However, it can be tricky locating a quality vehicle for long-distance driving in a market jam-packed with cars claiming to be the best. What are the best cars for long-distance driving?

If you want to find your dream vehicle, you’ve come to the right place. Read on to learn more about eight of the best cars for long-distance driving. There are many options, whether you are a solo driver or someone who needs to fit five others in the vehicle. What are the best cars for long-distance driving? Let’s talk about it.

1. 2022 Subaru Forester

The 2022 Subaru Forester is an excellent car option for long-distance driving. It’s ideal for trips that may involve traversing off-road for a portion. The car has a USN safety score of 9. 5 ⁄ 10 and gets excellent mileage on the road - 26 in the city and 33 on the highway. It has all-wheel drive and a little less than a foot of ground clearance.

You’ll find that four people can ride comfortably inside the car, along with plenty of cargo. There are excellent safety features, like adaptive cruise control on the standard model. If you pay $3,000 more, you get reclining rear seats, heated front seats, and a hot spot in the car.

According to subaru.com , the 2022 Subaru Forester has a starting price of $25,895. It’s a relatively affordable option for all. Couples who love off-roading will thrive with this car.

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2. 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Next up is the iconic 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. This vehicle has a USN safety score of 9. 4 ⁄ 10 and offers excellent mileage on the road. You will find 36 miles in the city and 35 miles on the highway, making it an ideal commuting car.

There are tons of safety tech features inside this vehicle, from road sign assist to automatic emergency braking. It also has lots of space with three rows of seats for families and carpool situations.

According to toyota.com , the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid has a starting price of $39,555. It’s pricey but offers one of the best driving experiences if you must go a long distance.

3. 2022 Tesla Model 3

The next on our list of the best cars for long-distance driving is the 2022 Tesla Model 3. This vehicle has received excellent safety ratings and can take you far. You can go 138 miles in the city and 126 on the highway with its electric charge.

There’s lots of safety in the Tesla Model 3, including extensive features to keep you in your lane. There are also excellent entertainment choices. The car has Spotify, Pandora, and even Netflix when you are at a stop.

According to tesla.com , the 2022 Tesla Model 3 has a starting price of $40,390. It’s the best choice if you want an affordable, high-tech electric car.

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Whether you’re squeezing into a tight campus parking spot or hauling ten loads of laundry back home, these best cars for college students will get you, your friends, and your stuff where you’re going.

4. 2022 Honda Odyssey

If you are a fan of the classic van, the 2022 Honda Odyssey is the car for you on a long-distance trip. It’s an excellent family car with room for people and their cargo. The vehicle has a USN safety score of 9. 8 ⁄ 10 and has high-class mileage - you can get 19 in the city and 28 on the highway. That’s excellent for a van with so much room.

You can easily fit three rows of people in the car. It’s possible to opt for magic sliding seats, which allow seats to adjust for legroom for passengers in the second and third rows. It has a basic infotainment system, but there are additions like a Wi-fi hotspot and USB ports.

According to honda.com , the 2022 Honda Odyssey has a starting price of $33,040. It’s a little more expensive but worth it for a family on the road.

5. 2022 Ford Mustang

Surprisingly, the 2022 Ford Mustang is one of the best cars for long-distance driving. It receives 21 miles in the city and 32 on the highway.

If you love sports cars, the 2022 Ford Mustang is the vehicle for you. It has done well in crash tests and can hit high speed on the road. It even has driver assistance features like automatic emergency braking.

According to ford.com , you can get the 2022 Ford Mustang for a starting price of $27,470. It’s an excellent compromise between efficiency and style.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU REPLACE YOUR BRAKES?

Unless you’re a mechanic or super-dedicated car enthusiast, you might not know much about the brakes on your car. How long do they typically last? How often should you replace your brakes ? We’ve got answers

6. 2022 Kia Telluride

The 2022 Kia Telluride is the next option on our list of the best cars for long-distance driving. It has a USN safety score of 9. 3 ⁄ 10 , and the Kia Telluride can hit 20 miles in the city and 26 on the highway.

There are tons of features on the 2022 Kia Telluride. It has many standard driver assistance features, including highway assist. There is even a drowsiness monitoring system. The Kia Telluride has three rows of seats and can easily seat seven people with room to spare.

According to kia.com , the 2022 Kia Telluride has a starting price of $33,390. It’s an excellent deal if you want room and features.

7. 2022 Hyundai Ioniq

Another option is the 2022 Hyundai Ioniq. This high-tech car received a USN safety score of 10 ⁄ 10 . It receives 58 miles in the city and 60 on the highway.

On a long drive, this car is phenomenal. It’s almost impossible to beat the Ioniq’s incredible drivetrain and efficiency. You sacrifice room inside, but it’s worth it for a couple.

According to hyundaiusa.com , you can get the base model for a starting price of $44,000. It’s worth the investment.

8. 2022 Honda Accord

The 2022 Honda Accord might be last on this list, but it’s far from the least. This car received a 9. 9 ⁄ 10 USN safety score and gets 30 miles in the city and 38 on the highway.

The safety score is something to boast about to others. It has lots of space with two rows, so it’s ideal if you don’t need three rows of seats. It has many features and many trims to select from on the market.

According to automobiles.honda.com , you can find the car for a starting price of $26,520. It’s an excellent deal.

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Best Cars for Your Road Trip

CR's experts highlight the best long-distance haulers for individuals, small groups, and large families

Honda Accord Hybrid, Tesla Model3, Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, Lexus RX450H, Toyota Highlander Hybrid on an illustrated background

At CR, we think the best cars for road trips are the same ones that are great for everyday driving. They have lots of usable cargo space, a comfortable ride, and key safety technology, and they get great gas mileage. Lately, many vehicles that meet these criteria are hybrids. Today’s versions are bigger and more practical for more uses, while still offering significant fuel savings over their gas-only counterparts. Many also offer active driver assistance technology that can make driving less stressful. The Lexus RX450h and Toyota Highlander Hybrid and Sienna can even tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped—enough to haul a small camper.

@consumerreports Here are great long-distance haulers for individuals, small groups, and large families. For ratings and reviews, visit cr.org/cars 🚙. #cartok #carsoftiktok #roadtrip ♬ original sound - Consumer Reports

Room for One (or Two)

Three's comfortable, for the whole family.

Editor’s Note: This article also appeared in the July 2022 issue of Consumer Reports magazine.

Keith Barry

Keith Barry has been an auto reporter at Consumer Reports since 2018. He focuses on safety, technology, and the environmental impact of cars. Previously, he led home and appliance coverage at Reviewed; reported on cars for USA Today, Wired, and Car & Driver; and wrote for other publications as well. Keith earned a master’s degree in public health from Tufts University. Follow him on Twitter @itskeithbarry .

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The 10 best cars for a road trip

It’s the best kind of holiday you’re not having. Here’s how to do it properly

At the risk of premature optimism, we will eventually be shot of this hateful virus. And when that happy, halcyon day arrives, we’re going to need a proper holiday. Because this whole ‘staycation’ thing has worn about as thin as our COVID track pants.

But what sort of holiday are we going to take? Are we really just going to go back to hopping a plane somewhere, checking into an Airbnb and then gorging ourselves on cuisine that stopped being authentic after the first million tourists or so? Swanning around to the same old monuments, craning our necks past the sea of selfie sticks and manoeuvring among the phalanx-like throngs of tour-bus patrons? Yeesh. Even staying at home doesn’t sound quite so bad when you put it like that.

Luckily, there is a perfectly brilliant holiday just waiting in the... er, non-wings. Yep, it’s what holidays used to be back when flying was a) expensive and b) remotely enjoyable: the road trip. And, just like drive-in cinemas, it’s the kind of idea so great and so obvious that no one can really adequately explain why it was consigned to history.

And, as far as we can tell, it’s high time to bring it back. Maybe keep things to the planning stage at the moment, while everyone is still at the mercy of a deadly virus that’s stalking the globe and generally ruining whatever it touches – much like tour-bus patrons, now that we think of it. And while you’re planning, it makes sense to consider the perfect set of wheels for your upcoming road trip.

But what actually makes for a good road trip car? Well, decent mileage wouldn’t go astray, because, while a ghostly quiet service station on a pan-flat plain makes for great calm-before-the-storm pacing in movies, real-life service stations are about as enjoyable as... hm. How many times can we riff on tour buses before the joke gets old?

Reliability is another strong point. This doesn’t mean that everything has to work as accurately (and characterfully) as an industrial sewing machine. It does mean that everything that might break should be able to be diagnosed and repaired or replaced easily.

Space is an absolute must. Someone much cleverer than we are once said that space is the ultimate luxury. And it’s really hard to argue the toss on that one. Who doesn’t want a bit more width for their shoulders, a bit more legroom in front and headroom above? And then consider storage space, for luggage, drinks and food, and possibly hitchhikers – but only if they have their own towel – and you’re going to need more space than you think.

Character is often overlooked. But if you’re embarking on a lengthy trip, you actually have to want to be in the car. If you pull into your overnight holt and the prospect of getting back in the car the next day fills you with anything other than joy, what kind of holiday are you even having?

To that point, ride comfort is probably the most-overlooked part of any road-trip car. We get it: the allure of driving a GT3RS or Bowler Wildcat or broadly unobtainable hypercar is strong enough that it’s easy to overlook just how punishing these things can be over distance. With that in mind, we will be keeping a firm eye on the comfort portion of this little test.

Some would say that the most important part of a road-trip car – and any car, for that matter – is fun. But we’d like to split hairs for a little bit here. Fun, at least for us, comes from experiencing a car at the edge of its performance envelope. Just like a brilliant vintage Hiwatt amplifier doesn’t truly sing until you’ve turned it up to neighbourhood-dispute-starting levels, fun in a car tends to begin when you’re really pushing the car in a way that the local constabulary would likely take exception to. Enjoyment, on the other hand, doesn’t come from holding powerslides, inducing lift-off oversteer and all the other sorts of things that are incredibly fun to do and dull to describe to someone else in a conversation. Enjoyment can spring from the feel of the interior materials, the plushness of the ride, the smell of careworn leather and plastic that emanates every time you open the door. You can enjoy a car while driving, while sitting still, while having a cup of coffee and remembering that it’s waiting outside, ready to plod along for another 1,000 fault-free miles.

So, that makes up the six pillars of a good road trip car. However, finding cars that manage to be enjoyable, comfortable, characterful, spacious, reliable and economical is, to be frank, a bit of an ask. The good news, for you at least, is that we’re still at home, in our COVID track pants, with a lot of time to think about the right answer.

Best saloon: Citroen DS

Back in the day, when the world made a modicum of sense, saloons were pretty much the default choice. And they, unlike the modern world, continue to make sense. There are enough seats for a whole family, enough doors to let them all in and out again and a separate space to put your things. Saloons really are the definition of practicality. Quiet now, estates, and wait your turn. We’re getting to you.

So, saloons take care of the whole ‘spaciousness’ bit pretty easily. How about ride comfort and character? Well, surely the Citroen DS nails both of those harder than Thor picking up Mjolnir and trying his hand at construction work. Even now, the DS is still the yardstick for ride comfort. And this is a car from the 1950s. And character? The DS could be a character in a Pixar film, like Cars , if only there was a spot in the cast for a slow, front-drive French limousine that oozed cool the entire movie and then casually stymied a presidential assassination at the end. Maybe the fourth instalment, Pixar. Give us a call; we’ll talk through the rest of the script when you’re ready.

Unsubtle pitches to major animation studios aside, what does the DS offer in the way of reliability? Don’t forget that these things won rallies – Monte Carlo, 1000 Lakes and any number not famous enough to mention outside the most anorak-wearing circles. In any case, these things were properly tough. Case in point? In a 1974 rally from Great Britain to Germany, that just happened to take a 12,000-mile detour through the African continent, the DS – despite being nearly 20 years old by that point – still finished first.

Mileage will be excellent, too, because of the supremely streamlined body (which, we just have to mention, still looks amazing to this day) and a simple four-cylinder engine that can trace its origins to the Citroen Traction Avant. So, power? It has some. Longevity? Merveilleuse.

But surely, you think, the DS can’t be enjoyable to drive. Not like a modern sports car. But maybe, we suggest, you experience the absolute mayhem that is a modern sports car before deciding how much you want to slight the DS on that basis. You’d be hard-pressed to find a new sports car with less than three times the power of the old DS, and that makes for very rapid progress along your chosen road and equally rapid progress through the local court system if you’re caught.

Instead, enjoying the DS is something done at a lollop, gliding over the vagaries and vicissitudes of whatever road, track or assortment of cobblestones your route is taking you. Take some time to sit back and relax; god knows it’s been more than long enough since you did that.

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Best estate: mercedes w123.

‘So,’ you might be thinking, ‘if the perfect saloon for a road trip is the Citroen DS, then, surely, the best estate would be the DS Safari?’ OK, look. No one likes a smart ass. But then again, no one likes a dumb ass, either. In fact, just being an ass is enough for people to dislike you. Hm. This bears further investigation. It also feels like we’re digressing again.

Back to the DS Safari. This might be (OK, it absolutely is) nitpicking, but taking the incredibly avant-garde form of the DS and then combining it with the most practical of body styles loses something in the process. Really, it’s a victim of its own success – if the DS saloon wasn’t so shocking and so perfect and so jolie-laide, then tacking on a bit to hold antique buffets and Alsatians wouldn’t have been like resculpting a Rodin.

On the other hand, the Mercedes W123 is not a Rodin. It isn’t really sculptural at all, to be honest, unless you include a solid lump of uncarved marble in that description. Don’t get us wrong; we love it. We’re just saying that its more conventional, conservative appearance gels much better with the inherent practicality of the estate body style. In fact, we’d go ahead and say that, stylistically (and roughly every other way we can think of), the W123 works best as an estate.

And it’s hard to say that one of the most reliable cars in the world isn’t going to make it through whatever road trip you’re planning. Some of you might remember that a Top Gear TV alumnus drove a Mercedes W123 across Africa and could have driven right back to his starting point, were it not for a chronic lack of a sense of direction.

And there’s something incredibly enjoyable about piloting a car that feels about as impregnable as your average castle and gives the impression that it’ll last almost as long. And this is the W123’s calling card. It’s a classic car that still works as a day-in, day-out workshorse. And, not entirely coincidentally, as a road trip extraordinaire.

Given that it’s from back when estates weren’t sculpted and styled to look rakish and cool, the rear load area gives some impression of what it’d be like to cover your nearest sporting arena in carpet. And, because of the self-levelling suspension that came standard in the rear of all W123 estates, you can carry enough road-tripping supplies to circumnavigate Australia without having that dragging-bum look as the rear suspension capitulates entirely.

The danger with cars as reliable and reserved as the W123 is that, by doing its job with all the fuss and histrionics of your average toaster, it’ll be as memorable and characterful as... well, that very same toaster. But the Mercedes has that indefinable but unmistakable spark that separates it from any number of reliable, and reliably dull, pretenders to its throne.

Best ute: 1959 Chevrolet El Camino

At first blush (or blanche, depending on how you react to coupe utilities), utes don’t seem to make the same amount of sense as saloons and estates for road trips. No space for family or friends, to start with.

But, by now, you might be cottoning on to where we’re going with this: what if your idea of a perfect road trip is one undertaken with just one other person or even by yourself?

Every god since the Greek ones knows that there’s a huge distinction between being alone and being lonely. What’s more, travelling is the best way to learn about the people you’re with. And it stands to reason that travelling alone – especially into the unknown – is one of the very best ways to learn about yourself.

But before we put ourselves in jeopardy of trotting out any more ‘travel expands the mind’ idioms and completely descending into hackneyed guff about wanderlust, let’s think about the right kind of car for a one-person odyssey into self-discovery.

Would you believe it’s a sixty-something-year-old Chevrolet? No? All right, we like a challenge. First things first: the 1959 El Camino comes from the Cadillac school of design, where too much is never enough. Just look at the wraparound windscreen, art-deco-homage glasshouse and sculptural flanks and try to resolve what you see with the idea that this was sold as a commercial vehicle. See, it’s not just the Italians who can make the banal beautiful – let a few 1950s Americans off the leash and you get a near-architectural farm truck.

Just looking at a ’59 El Camino is a joy, let alone easing it along the road of your choice. And you will want to ease it, if the El Camino’s going to clear our whole ‘somewhat economical’ bar. But don’t stress; just waft along, carried by the immense low-down torque of a 5.7-litre, all-American, all-iron V8. Also, if you’re not so fussed on economy, remember that this is long before the dreaded Malaise years, when horsepower took a decade-long vacation from almost every American engine – the top-spec 1959 El Camino was good for 335bhp when new, as well as a sound glorious enough to rival the Stratocaster of the same year. And for the non-vintage-guitar-tragics among you, that’s saying pretty much everything we can say about it.

Out back, there’s space for pretty much every conceivable road-trip appurtenance. We’d suggest waterproof bags for the things you’d prefer to keep dry and clean, but even if you carried your actual wardrobe and its contents on the back, there’s still room there for more, like a bike to go and explore the wilder bits of the blue yonder. Hey, that gives us an idea...

Best bike: BMW R80 G/S

Yes, it’s not a car. We are super aware of this. But calling the article ‘the best machines for a road trip’ or ‘the best vehicles for a road trip’ feels like what someone from an alien land would call it if it were trying unsuccessfully to assimilate into humanity. And we’re doing a fine job assimilating. So cars it is.

And yes, if you are taking a proper road trip all by your lonesome, can we suggest truly embracing the double-edged sword of trepidation and enjoyment by putting yourself truly out there?

The BMW R80 G/S is the absolute daddy of putting yourself out there. In fact, ever since its introduction in 1980, it’s pretty much redefined just how out there one can put oneself. The G/S in the name stands for Gelande / Strasse – literally terrain / street, but a better translation is off-road / on-road. And this isn’t some marketing-led bumpf on BMW’s part; the R80 G/S won Dakar on its debut – and this is back in the days when they actually went to Dakar. It kept raking in victories at Dakar and Baja throughout the 1980s, too, until it was replaced in 1987.

By modern standards, the G/S is far from the quickest bike in the world, but It. Just. Keeps. Going. Case in point: Ed Culberson rode from the north coast of Alaska all the way to Argentina. And that’s a good 19,000 miles of road. And about 80 miles of the complete absence of roads. Yep, we’re talking about the Darien Gap, a swathe of rainforest so dense and forbidding that the general plan when doing the Pan-American Highway is to hop a ferry from Panama to Columbia and keep riding south. Culberson didn’t do that. He rode, dragged, pushed and winched the G/S through a literal jungle. So let’s just say it can handle the highways and dirt roads you have in mind.

As for character? Well, bikes tend to follow the same rules as Porsches: you want real character? Go air-cooled. And the upright riding position means your back doesn’t ache from hugging the fuel tank. Oh, and your hands won’t go numb. Say that about a cafe racer.

Because it’s a bike, fuel economy will be better than a Ford Fiesta. And because it’s a bike, you’ll be a part of the environment that you’re moving through. No car – not even Caterhams – involve you in your surroundings as much as a motorbike. If your road trip is going to take you to somewhere beautiful (and it really should), are you willing to experience that less than you could?

OK, so calling a 1980s motorbike spacious would take some mental gymnastics, there’s much more space than you think to stretch your legs. Add a few panniers and pack like a student backpacker and there’s not a lot you’ll miss leaving behind. Possibly one more set of clean underwear, but that’s not really our business.

Best grand tourer: Aston DB9

More than any other, the GT car makes sense for road trips, right? With power to burn, space for your fitted luggage, trophy spouse and obscenely expensive, yet entirely cheap-looking sunglasses, surely all other cars must bow their heads to the king of long-haul-without-the-long-face motoring? Well, there might actually be something in that, now that you mention it.

It’d make sense to pick a Bentley Continental GT and call it that, but you know we’re going to try a little harder. Yes, folks, it’s the Aston DB9, one of the most gorgeous shapes of the modern age that just so happens to make one of the most gorgeous sounds of the modern age. And even now, approaching two decades since we first saw the DB9, it remains, as we’ve said before , “one of the world’s prettiest, classiest GT cars”. And, we hasten to add, easily one of the most enjoyable.

OK, so the whole ‘fuel economy’ thing is dented somewhat by the presence of 12 cylinders and the constant temptation to deploy them in the loudest and most enjoyable way. But it’s not like you’ll always be channelling your inner Finnish rally driver at every conceivable moment. The DB9 has performance chops, for sure, but its raison d'etre is more considered than just speed and handling.

Come on, you know this one: the DB9 is about supreme comfort and superlative cool. And it’s hard to argue that the DB9 doesn’t nail that brief, even now, when they’re a £30,000 second-hand proposition. Here, listen (or, y’know, read) what our most helmsmanly road tester had to say about the DB9, a decade after its introduction: “The languid V12 never appears to work that hard. It’s smooth, cultured, urbane: forceful in a very understated way. So, yes, it will propel itself along any given road with as much vim and vigour as you dare deploy, but you’ll never get the feeling that the car is having to work particularly hard for its speed. This makes it a very relaxing car to pilot.”

This, perhaps more than any other on this list, is the one to pick if your idea of a road trip involves the phrase ‘a few thousand miles’.

Best convertible: Mercedes SL Pagoda

But what about convertibles? Don’t they epitomise the road trip, with wind sailing through whatever’s left of your hair and the sun beaming down on your blissful face? Well, the thing about road trips is that they tend to be fairly lengthy things, by definition. A road trip will not be, for instance, London to Slough, because a) it’s a very short distance, b) the road there is neither fun nor less-travelled, and c) you end up in Slough, which is entirely uncalled for.

Real road trips take in hundreds, if not thousands of miles. And your average human being who is considering a road trip – the bulk of which wake up in a climate-controlled house, drive a climate-controlled car to a practically hermetically sealed office and then return to said house in said car – aren’t really experienced in what exposure to the elements can do to a person’s body. Or indeed mood.

As our two-wheeled brethren will already know, even what feels like gentle sun and whispers of breeze can ravage skin that’s used to being kept inside and moisturised. So, take that into account before you start scouring the classifieds for an old SL you can afford.

And yes, it’s going to be an SL, because they’re the best convertibles ever made. And the apotheosis of road-trip convertible perfection has to be the W113 Pagoda. OK, sure, they’re not exactly free these days, but where in our rigorous search for ‘best’ did ‘cheap’ come up? While there have been swathes of good SLs – some of which, like the excellent R129, are still entirely affordable – the Pagoda is the summit of what Merc achieved with its Super-Leicht drop-top, at least in terms of road-tripping. We should mention that the Fifties 300SL, while absolutely magnificent, wasn’t super big on the whole ‘carry luggage’ thing, which knocks it out of contention.

But that’s no hardship when you’ve Paul Bracq’s finest design, married to underpinnings (and a glorious straight six) that’d keep contemporary Ferraris honest if the track was tight enough. There’s just enough space to scrape by with ticks in the ‘comfortable’ and ‘spacious’ columns (still, pack light, yeah?) and economy isn’t at all terrible, especially given its age and sporting bent.

Where it excels – aside from its incredible reliability, which you just kind of assume from a pre-1990s Benz – is character. This is the car that swayed everyone from Audrey Hepburn to Stirling Moss back in the day, then still had the goods to get Kate Moss’s attention and affection decades later. And it’s easy to see why. This car, perhaps more than any other, makes you happy just to be behind the wheel, even if it’s in the middle of rush-hour traffic, let alone an open highway.

Best hatch: Lancia Delta Integrale

Hm. This can’t be right. Surely hatchbacks aren’t road-trip material, right? Wrong. Allow us to reintroduce the Delta Integrale as you’ve never expected it to be used before.

So, you know all about how these things can cover ground like you wouldn’t believe, gripping like an episode of Chernobyl . But it’s worth remembering that, inside the fender flares and above the rally-spec drivetrain, lives a properly practical five-door hatch.

Speaking of practicality, the Integrale is left-hand-drive only. And this is actually handy, because that’s how most of the world does things. So you can cover the entire European mainland, almost all of the Americas, the top half of Africa, all of Russia and China and the bulk of southeast Asia without ever dicing with traffic from the wrong side of the car.

But who gives half a stuffed turkey about practicality when the Integrale is one of the most charismatic cars of all time? The Nineties-style turbo (hint: next to nowt down low, then a spitting, sizzling assault once past 3,000rpm or so), the super-quick steering rack, the blend of perfectly sculpted seats and a big plastic box for a dash, the immense grip only matched by the extraordinary suspension travel... every part of the Integrale is an event.

And that huge suspension travel also means that the little Lancia can eat up all the road imperfections that’d knock a more tightly screwed-down car off course, all while being as comfortable as a set of COVID track pants. This is a car you fire down a road on a rush of overboost, revelling in the joy of driving that’s untempered by the road surface.

So, it must be time to address the whole ‘Lancia reliability’ thing now, before someone digs up a joke so tired that it could pass for a first-time dad. And here’s how we choose to: six World Rally Championships on the trot, from a car that was pressed into service to replace a custom-built Group B monster at short notice. So yeah, it’ll likely handle the Côte d'Azur – after all, it won a rally there back in 1993.

Best electric car: Tesla Model S

This one’s tricky. First, because we rather like the planet and the idea of experiencing it without decade-long droughts, wildfires the size of continents and the concept of glaciers being a thing of the past. And we like electric cars too, especially the i3, Model 3 and Taycan.

But road-tripping, at least as much as we can conceive, is the Achilles’ heel of the electric car. While fast-chargers have been springing up about as quickly as TV subscription services, they tend to be on highways and heavily trafficked routes. And this makes complete sense for any number of logistical and economic reasons.

But perhaps the one central thing about road trips is that they’re always at their best away from the main thoroughfare. And the just-to-the-side-of-central thing about road trips is taking trips of fancy. Your intended route might be a top-to-bottom of the eastern seaboard of the US or Australia, but it’s the unintended diversions, spur-of-the-moment stopovers and unplanned explorations that engender the most memorable moments.

And how can you resolve that with an electric car’s charging constraints? It all seems a bit hopeless for the electric car.

But we have found something of a solution: the newly updated Tesla Model S Long Range Plus. Its range is now rated at a shade more than 400 miles. And how much do you really feel like doing more than 400 miles a day on your road trip?

Of course, you still need to put electricity back into the battery once it’s gone, and recharging a battery big enough to take a two-tonne car 400 miles isn’t going to be the work of a few minutes with a household outlet. But if you plan to stop at scenic locations for a day or two, that’s more than enough to hoover up the requisite kilowatt hours at your B&B, no? Also, be a mensch and pay your hosts for using more power in a day than they do in a month. Better yet, with a Tesla, you can take advantage of destination charging, where tourist destinations like wineries, hotels and so on install proper Tesla superchargers to attract the electric-car road tripper.

So, by taking your breaks at beauty spots, you can break free of main-road charging and middle-of-the-road trips. Anyone else up for an electric road trip through the Yukon?

Best van: VW T3 Syncro

Full disclosure: we’ve never done the whole ‘drive a van around Europe’ thing. Our parents did, and they’re still together, so it’s clearly possible. But, at least for us, it offers up something of a conundrum. Driving a van tends to be about as fun as driving a stake into the heart of your favourite child.

That said, vans tend to nail the whole ‘space’ thing. Comfort’s a bit more hit and miss, unless your van used to be the courtesy bus for a quote-unquote classy Las Vegas hotel. As for character? Unlikely – 99 per cent of the time, vans are only slightly less characterful than an airport departure lounge.

But not the Type 2 Kombi. Yeah, it’s a little bit on the obvious side of no duh, but there’s a very good reason for that. They’re plentiful, reliable, spacious, economical, fun to be in and brimming with character. Not bad, really, for an underpowered, slab-sided van.

Our pick? Well, just to bring a little contrariness back into the mix, we’re going for the squared-off T3, also known as the Vanagon in the States. Why Vanagon? Because van + wagon = a stupid name, as it turns out. It also turns out that Volkswagen was terrible at naming things waaaay before the Arteon, which seems to have turned into a ‘Hold my delicious Czech lager’ for the bods over at Skoda. But we, as ever, digress.

The T3 was the most spacious and most powerful Vee Dub van that still followed the proper Type 2 formula: engine at the back, driver at the front, young adults in varying stages of insobriety in the middle. Possibly Steely Dan on the stereo.

And call us odd, but the supremely oddball Syncro version, with all-wheel-drive, lifted ride height and styling only slightly more squared-off than your average Brutalist building really speaks to us, even if the concept of sleeping in a van rates slightly below the concept of just forgoing sleep altogether. But what on earth would we need a jacked-up 4WD for on a road trip? Well, as a nice lead-in to our next point, perhaps.

Photo: Sam Beebe

Best 4WD: Mercedes G-Wagen

We’re sure, by now, that at least a few of you are wondering why there haven’t been any SUVs in this list. And at least one of you has correctly surmised that it’s because they’re hateful objects, bereft of anything approaching enjoyment or character. And they tend not to be stellar in the whole ‘fuel economy’ thing, either. For anyone keeping count, that’s three out of the six pillars that make a good road-trip car, crumbled into dust and therefore not holding the roof up in a way that the people under said roof would much prefer they did.

But there’s also another reason. Cast your mind back to when cars were designed for specific purposes and not specific markets. Some of you will have to accomplish the faintly impossible task of casting your mind back further than your mind has actually existed. In this halcyon time, SUVs weren’t called SUVs, and car journalists couldn’t mock the fact that the cars in question weren’t sporty or particularly utilitarian, so were really only Vs. They were called 4WDs or off-roaders. And now, not a moment too soon, we reach our point: if you’re going on a road trip, is there not a whiff of logical fallacy in taking an off-roader?

And we reach another problem with including SUVs – if they’re designed to go off-road, they’ll be compromised on it. And if they’ve already been adapted to go on the road, then their original purpose has been compromised by the adaptation, and their use on the road will be compromised by the fact that the original purpose of a vehicle of that sort is to go off-road.

And now let us quietly pierce our own logical argument by remembering that not all roads are in tip-top shape. Some, such as those in less-developed parts of the world, like Australia, are in such poor condition that the open, grass-tufted paddock next to the road is often an inviting alternative to the torturous potholes and corrugations of the quote-unquote actual road.

So if your intended road trip takes you on roads that mimic the surface of the moon, there really can be only one choice. Something built to take hits that not even Rocky Marciano could walk off. Something with big wheels and tyres that won’t disappear into cavernous potholes. Something that oozes character, but generally not coolant or oil. And that something is probably going to be an old Land Rover Defender or a Jeep Wrangler.

Which side you fall on probably relates to how you feel about dumping tea in Boston Harbour, but our choice? Probably an old G-Wagen. Yeah, we picked German. Does that mean we have to surrender our British passports or something?

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The best cars to rent for every kind of road trip

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One of the not-necessarily unpredictable but perhaps unintended consequences of the coronavirus pandemic is the rediscovery of the great American road trip.

After borders around the world closed for foreign visitors, Americans who typically crossed oceans for their big vacations were forced to look for travel opportunities closer to home.

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Fortunately, we live in one of the most spectacular countries on earth, with wide-open spaces, awe-inspiring scenery, a national park system that is the envy of the world and a truly impressive variety of regional culture and cuisine -- made accessible thanks in no small part to the vast system of interstate highways constructed in the 20th century.

With the pandemic forcing hundreds of thousands of workers out of their cubicles and back into their home offices, people hit the road in droves, eager to explore this beautiful land of ours. RV rentals became a hot commodity, with some even ditching their homes to live on the road full-time.

International travel may be making its comeback this summer, but for plenty of Americans, the good old-fashioned road trip -- with its promise of the open road and the discovery of someplace new -- is calling.

But what's a road trip without a suitable car ? With so many automobiles to choose from for your next adventure, we wanted to highlight some of the very best options for any type of road trip.

For a coastal or island drive: Ford Mustang

Picture yourself driving down the Pacific Coast Highway in California or along the ocean in Hawaii , top-down, music turned up. It's hard not to see yourself driving a Mustang. Ford's pony car is one of the most emblematic symbols of Americana ever to exist. Conceived in the 1960s, it instantly became a hit for anyone looking for an affordable car went fast and turned a lot of heads in the process. The Mustangs of the past have become classics, but today's version is a thoroughly modern vehicle that's hard to beat for good-weather cruising.

The standard Mustang is no slouch: It comes equipped with a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 310 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque. But if you really want to have fun carving the curves of a long and winding coastal highway, splurge for the GT convertible, which comes with a 5.0-liter V8 producing 460 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque, which is sure to put a smile on your sun-kissed face.

For a cross-country adventure: Volvo XC90

If you're setting out on a cross-country road trip, comfort is key. You'll want a vehicle that's quiet, efficient, spacious, equipped with enough creature comforts to keep you and your companions entertained, isn't bothered by the wide range of pavement quality we have in this country and, perhaps most importantly of all, has comfortable seats.

Volvo's flagship SUV, the XC90, has all of that and more. It's roomy enough for you and your friends or family -- and all your things. Plus, it comes packed to the gills with the latest in automotive technology including a touchscreen-based entertainment system and top-notch stereo systems. Its solid build quality guarantees you'll have a comfortable ride, even over the pothole-ridden roads found in parts of the country (looking at you, upper Midwest ). And, last but certainly not least, the Swedish automaker is known for producing arguably the best seats in the automotive industry -- on some trim levels, you can even opt for seats that massage you as you drive.

For snowy roads: Audi A4 Allroad

If you're road-tripping in the winter -- or somewhere that sees snow almost year-round -- you're going to want a vehicle that's as sure-footed in the snow and slush as it is on dry pavement. The Audi A4 Allroad is a lifted version of its A4 Avant station wagon that offers extra inches of ground clearance, perfect for snowy roadways. But the main feature that make this elevated wagon a force to be reckoned with in the snow is its standard Quattro all-wheel-drive system, which allows the car to plod through rain, snow and slush with ease. (Of course, if you're driving on mountain roads with deep, heavy snow we'd recommend fitting the tires -- of any vehicle -- with chains for extra confidence.)

And, since this is more or less a station wagon, you'll have extra room for everyone and their things married with the driving dynamics of a car. The Allroad's four-cylinder turbocharged engine means you won't be stopping too often for gas, either.

For tackling all types of terrain: Jeep Wrangler

You can't do much better than a Jeep Wrangler if you're looking for a vehicle that will go anywhere and do (just about) anything. This iconic American truck comes in two- and four-door configurations and offers such options as a removable roof and doors for serious off-roading. The Wrangler comes with a true 4x4 four-wheel-drive system and is equipped with large tires and a high suspension which allows it to tackle rocks and other terrains with aplomb. Its generous ground clearance allows the car to ford through 30 inches of water -- in case your adventure brings you across rivers or streams.

If you're getting off the interstate and want to explore some of the landscape that can't be accessed by any old car, you can't go wrong with the Wrangler.

For national-park hopping: Jeep Grand Cherokee

There's another Jeep on this list -- and for good reason. Its venerable Grand Cherokee has been the brand's standard-bearer for years, combining the best of Jeep's inherent offroad abilities with creature comforts you'd expect from a luxury SUV. If you think your road trip will combine long stints on the highway with some offroading (perhaps at one or several national parks , for example), the Grand Cherokee is the perfect vehicle to choose.

It delivers a smooth ride on the road along with plenty of technology and other comforts that make it easy to spend a lot of time in it, but also can handle anything that comes its way once you veer off the pavement.

Use the right credit card for your rental

When renting a vehicle , it's important to make sure you are covered in case you get into an accident. Damage waivers are typically available to purchase from your rental company at a cost of about $10 to $20 per day, but some credit cards , including the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card and Chase Sapphire Reserve® offer a primary damage waiver in case of damage or theft. Since the insurance is primary, you won't have to file a claim with your personal car insurance if there's damage to your car. You won't have to pay a hefty deductible or be subject to rate changes, but be aware that coverage is only valid on rentals of 31 days or less.

Bottom line

Road trips will continue to be a big part of the way Americans travel for the foreseeable future. Once you decide where you're going and what type of road trip you'll be embarking on, finding the right vehicle for the trip is the next step.

Just promise us you'll take our advice on how to skip the line at the rental car agency .

10 Best Affordable Road Trip Cars

A road trip is a fantastic way to spend a vacation. Out on the open road, you can take time to appreciate and relish the journey, not just the destination. You have the freedom and flexibility to change your plans on the fly, and you don't have to deal with TSA security lines or three-ounce liquid restrictions. Sounds great, right? Now you just need to find a suitable vehicle that won't break the bank.

Whether it's a solo trip on winding backroads, a whimsical off-grid adventure with friends, or a family bonding session across state lines, there's an affordable option for any road trip you can think of. We came up with 10 of the best road-trip cars you can buy today, most of which are available for less than $33,486, which is the average vehicle transaction price in 2016.

Be sure to visit our Incentives and Rebates page to learn about current incentive and rebate offers before you buy.

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1. 2016 Volkswagen Golf

If you're looking to hit the highway with a couple of friends and explore a new city or two, a compact hatchback is a smart pick. Compacts are inherently maneuverable and if you can find one with good outward visibility, generous interior space and great fuel economy, you're good to go. You won't find a better embodiment of these qualities than the 2016 Volkswagen Golf.

The Golf offers real space for four adults, or five in a pinch, with a handy 22.8 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the rear seatbacks and an almost SUV-like 52.7 cubic feet with those seatbacks folded down. The large windows afford great sightlines in every direction, while the standard 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces enough power to slingshot you around an on-ramp without much effort. And yet, it gets 29 mpg combined in EPA testing (25 city/36 highway). This is sensible German engineering at its best.

2. 2016 Toyota Prius

If city touring is in your road-trip plans and you need more space than a compact vehicle can offer, check out the midsize 2016 Toyota Prius. It's a top pound-for-pound contender in passenger space and road comfort, not to mention its unbeatable fuel economy.

Go all-in with the Prius Eco model and you'll get ultra-low rolling-resistance tires along with a slight weight reduction, resulting in 56 mpg combined (58 city/53 highway). That extends fueling intervals to a bladder-challenging range somewhere north of 600 miles. Efficiency aside, this Prius is also more comfortable and rewarding to drive than any generation before it. And its midsize dimensions mean there's plenty of space for people and cargo.

3. 2016 Hyundai Genesis

Maybe you're someone who thinks a road trip — even one that takes weeks and a couple hundred miles a day — should not be a test of endurance. If so, a cushy luxury sedan like the 2016 Hyundai Genesis might suit you.

A base price of $39,700 might sound like it's stretching the definition of "affordable," but that's where this Hyundai's exceptional value comes into play. For the money, the Genesis simply can't be matched for feature content or interior quality, and it comes with industry-leading warranty coverage. The standard, smooth-revving 3.8-liter V6 is the smart choice (the optional V8 plays in a different league), and you can specify rear- or all-wheel drive.

4. 2016 Mazda CX-5

Maybe you're tired of the city because you have to live in one for 350 days a year. In that case, the point of a road trip is to get as far away from cities — or even roads themselves — as possible. We're with you.

The 2016 Mazda CX-5 is a winner here. On the pavement, it's downright sporty for a crossover, with impressive fuel economy to boot. But it can also be equipped with a capable all-wheel drive system for mild off-road exploration. While rock-crawling jaunts may be off the table, the versatile CX-5 should provide more overall satisfaction than a single-purpose off-road vehicle.

5. 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata

For the driver whose trip revolves around roads rather than destinations, a sublime connection between car and driver moves to the top of the priority list. Unfortunately, this kind of connection often comes with a monthly payment that looks more like a mortgage. But the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a notable exception.

The Miata provides a lightweight body, a feisty four-cylinder engine, a taut suspension and communicative steering, delivering endless driving fun in a package that's barely big enough to fit two. The cabin may be too cozy for certain body types, and the trunk is limited to 4.6 cubic feet of space, so plan on packing light. But spend just five minutes behind the wheel of the MX-5 and you'll completely understand the appeal.

6. 2017 Ford Mustang Convertible

Summer brings plenty of opportunities to soak up some rays. And if you live in a place that doesn't see sunshine on a regular basis, you'll definitely want to take full advantage of these months.

It's true that the Miata, the No. 5 pick, is a seriously good convertible, but it has real space constraints. So if your passenger and cargo needs are greater, the 2017 Ford Mustang Convertible is another great drop-top option. The Mustang may not be as spry as the Miata, but with double the seats, significantly more trunk capacity and nearly double the horsepower from even the base V6 engine, it compensates nicely in other areas. If you need more power, a turbo four-cylinder and V8 are also available. In any configuration, this is iconic American motoring.

7. 2016 Honda Odyssey

This list would not be complete without today's quintessential road trip vehicle: the minivan. For years, the minivan has provided larger families with a maximally efficient means of traveling together, supplanting the thirsty and unwieldly station wagons.

As in other vehicle segments, there are minivans that stand out from the crowd. Offering seating for up to eight, the 2016 Honda Odyssey is one of our favorites, scoring top marks in interior space and comfort, everyday drivability and even composure around corners. Some high-end features available on the Odyssey include a 12-speaker surround-sound audio system and a 16.2-inch widescreen rear entertainment screen with HDMI connectivity, as well as the industry's first on-board vacuum system. Wrangling the kids could still be a challenge, but convincing them to climb aboard a rolling movie theatre will take far less effort.

8. 2017 Chevrolet Traverse

So you need to haul a lot of people and cargo to faraway places, but you refuse to join the Minivan Alliance. No problem. The 2016 Chevrolet Traverse is a comfortable and unusually spacious three-row SUV that accommodates up to eight passengers and starts at around $30,000.

The Traverse can tow up to 5,200 pounds when properly equipped, which is impressive for a crossover. It also comes with a 288-horsepower V6 engine that can be paired with all-wheel drive. Even with all three seating rows in use, there's still a generous 24.4 cubic feet of cargo space. Folding the second- and third-row seats opens up a whopping 116.3 cubic feet, topping this segment by a wide margin. An all-new Traverse is waiting in the wings and will be substantially smaller, so if you like the road-trip possibilities opened up by that cavernous cabin, grab a current-generation Traverse while you still can.

9. 2016 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel

If the Chevy Traverse's 5,200-pound towing capacity seems puny to you, perhaps the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel's 9,050-lb capacity is more like it. If your road trip involves pulling a trailer, a boat or even a camper, you'll want a truck with enough muscle to make quick work of any route.

The Ram 1500's EcoDiesel V6 provides outstanding fuel economy (20 mpg city/28 highway) along with a healthy 420 pound-feet of torque. The four-door crew cab can seat up to six and is surprisingly pleasant on long hauls thanks to its airy cabin, supportive seats and supple coil-spring rear suspension. Note that the EcoDiesel carries about a $5,000 premium, which nudges even the cheapest diesel-powered crew cab past our price cutoff. But this engine is certainly worth the extra money if towing and fuel economy (or simply extended driving range) are top priorities.

10. 2017 Honda Ridgeline

If you like the utility of a truck but prefer the refined driving character of a car, the 2017 Honda Ridgeline could be the road-trip champion you've been waiting for. Based on the Honda Pilot SUV, the Ridgeline is packed full of versatile features catering to an active lifestyle, so it's a great choice for trips with outdoorsy themes.

The bed of the Ridgeline is where most of the magic happens. A dual-hinged tailgate folds down or swings open from the side to reveal lockable underfloor storage. You can toss your gear in there, or else throw in some drinks and ice to convert it into a fully stocked cooler (the melted ice drains out via a removable plug at the bottom). Also available on top-line models is a 540-watt sound system, paired with the industry's first truck-bed audio system. It makes every stop on your itinerary a party waiting to happen.

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Home & renters insurance, car repair estimates, read car content, jerry data & research, most comfortable vehicles for long-distance trips.

Most comfortable cars for long-distance driving

Most comfortable suvs for long-distance trips , most comfortable minivans for your road trip, 2022 acura tlx—$39.995.

Sedan feels spacious
Highly adjustable front seats
Excellent forward visibility
Padded resting place below the infotainment system controls for the driver’s wrist
Not a lot of leg space in the back seat
Adding SH-AWD drops fuel efficiency
Most desirable packages cost a significant amount

2022 Toyota Avalon—$37,920

Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning system with lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control
Impressively cavernous trunk
Rear seats provide plenty of legroom, even for tall passengers
The hybrid model’s battery shrinks the trunk significantly
No all-wheel drive option
The infotainment system isn’t very aesthetically pleasing
2022 is the last model year for this large sedan

2022 Chrysler 300—$35,140

Great cargo space
Roomy cabin
Available in your choice of rear- or all-wheel drive
Available comfort-focused features include adjustable lumbar support, dual-zone automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather seats, and illuminated front and rear cupholders
Unimpressive fuel economy
Doesn’t offer very many standard tech features
Entry-level only comes with cloth seats
V8 model comes with a stiff suspension resulting in a rougher ride

2022 Subaru Legacy—$24,490

Affordable price tag
Standard automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control with lane-centering capability
Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Impressive handling dynamics
Lousy standard audio system
Lower fuel efficiency than its direct competitors
Uninspired exterior styling

2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee—$40,120

Modern and luxurious cabin
Lots of cargo space, especially if you fold down the second row of seats
Generous list of safety features
Performs well both on- and off-road
Only available with two rows (buyers must upgrade to the Grand Cherokee L for a third row)
AWD isn’t standard
V6 and V8 engines are both pretty thirsty

2022 Volkswagen Taos—$25,450

Incredibly affordable MSRP
Infotainment system comes standard with WiFi and can be equipped with built-in navigation, an eight-speaker BeatsAudio stereo, SiriusXM satellite radio, and wireless smartphone charging
Plenty of legroom in the front and back
Available upgrades include customizable ambient lighting, an eight-way power driver's seat, dual-zone climate control, a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof
Unimpressive engine performance
Interior features lots of cheap-looking plastic

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2022 chevrolet tahoe—$53,695.

A quiet, smooth ride
Towing capacity of up to 8,400 pounds
Three spacious rows for adult passengers
Up to 123 cubic feet of storage space with the seats stowed
Price tag of upper trims matches far more luxurious options
Exterior is a bit clunky looking
Infotainment system can be irksome

2022 Honda Pilot—$39,375

Lots of family-friendly options, including a PA system
A whopping 16 cup holders throughout the cabin
Lots of interior cubbies
Clearly marked, easy-to-use gauge cluster
High driver’s seat offers best-in-class visibility
Cramped third row
Looks more like a minivan than an SUV
Difficult-to-use touchscreen infotainment system

2022 Chrysler Pacifica—$38,690

Vast cargo space, especially if you fold down the third row
Optional Amazon Fire TV can be added to rear-seat entertainment system
Impressive fuel efficiency on PHEV powertrain
Built-in vacuum cleaner to clean up spills
Sluggish drivetrains
Lots of cheap-looking plastic throughout the interior
Spare tire isn’t a standard feature

2022 Honda Odyssey—$34,335

Lots of standard driver-assistance tech
USB ports available throughout the cabin for mobile phone charging
Incredibly quiet ride
Mediocre fuel economy ratings
Second-row seats are difficult to remove
Ride feels incredibly firm
Offers fewer tech features than rivals

2022 Kia Carnival—$33,635

Affordable price tag
Modern and accommodating front seats
Available reclining second row with pop-up footrests
Available panoramic sunroof
Not available in all-wheel drive
Second-row seats cannot be removed
Less cargo space than several rivals

2022 Toyota Sienna—$36,620

All-hybrid lineup is good for the environment and your wallet
All-wheel drive is available as an option
Modern and stylish interior
Second-row captain chairs can slide front and back for flexibility
Much slower than non-hybrid vans
Interior isn’t as customizable as its rivals
Most desirable features exclusive to the expensive upper trims

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From SUVs to hatchbacks and estates, 11 of the best new cars for family road trips

A selection of spacious cars suitable for long-distance travel, whatever your budget.

Is there anything better than packing up the car and heading off on an adventure with all the family? Whether it's a trip to the beach, a visit to an attraction, or a camping expedition, there's no shortage of amazing places to go.

But it isn’t just the destination and stop-offs that make a good road trip, the car you choose is really important too. Comfort is a necessity, so the more space the better. Decent performance, economy and the latest in-car technology are also essential.

Here we take a look at some of the many new car options available to suit a whole range of buyers.

The 2024 Skoda Kodiaq seven-seater is better than ever

Skoda Kodiaq - from £36,645

New for 2024, the second generation of Skoda's popular seven-seater SUV is better than ever. Offered with a choice of petrol and diesel engines, plus a new plug-in hybrid option capable of 62 miles of electric-only driving, the latest Kodiaq boasts more space and more tech. For the record, luggage space in the five-seater version is 910 litres with the second row in use, and 2,105 litres with it folded down. The seven-seater now holds 340 litres behind the third row of seats, while the PHEV has a 745-litre boot capacity due to the battery being located under the floor. Still impressive.

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Jaguar f-pace - from £46,805.

Still one of the most elegant and engaging SUVs to drive, the F-Pace is available as a petrol, diesel or plug-in hybrid (with an electric-only range of 40 miles). Swift, comfortable, plush and packed with technology, there's space for three in the back, while boot capacity with the seats upright is an impressive 650 litres (1,740 litres with the rear seats folded).

The Dacia Jogger is the the cheapest seven-seater on the market

Dacia Jogger - from £18,295

The award-winning Jogger, from Renault's Romanian budget brand, is quite simply the cheapest seven-seater on the market. And unlike some bigger, more expensive cars with a third row of seats, there's actually space for seven adults. Easy to drive and economical, if ever a model epitomised Dacia’s value-for-money philosophy, then the Jogger is it.

Volkswagen ID.Buzz: The coolest planet-friendly people mover

Volkswagen ID.Buzz - from £59,035

Funky, functional, fun to drive, comfortable and safe, the retro-cool 100% electric ID.Buzz is expensive, but nothing comes close to it in the planet-friendly people mover market. There’s currently just the one five-seat model available with two trims, but a longer wheelbase version is coming with extra seating. With a claimed range of up to 257 miles, the ID.Buzz is amazingly nimble for its size. And even with five passengers on board, there’s 1,121 litres of cargo space (expanding to 2,123 litres with the rear seats flipped down).

Kia EV9 - from £65,025

Big, bold, spacious and oozing technology, the Kia EV9 seven-seater is a real statement car. Fully electric, it has a range of up to 349 miles and it can be charged from 10-80% in as little as 24 minutes. It also has a party trick, which makes it stand out from a road trip point of view. Opt for the six-seater and the two middle row seats swivel round, so it's possible to chat to the rearmost passengers. Oh, and like every Kia, the EV9 comes with a generous seven-year warranty, for some extra peace of mind.

The impressive all-electric BMW iX1 has a petrol-powered sibling, the X1

BMW iX1 - from £46,205

The all-electric version of BMW's impressive new X1 SUV is a class act. It has a range of up to 270 miles and offers a winning blend of style, technology, driving engagement and quality. There's plenty of room for five with superb leg and headroom in the back for a car of its size. Boot space is a healthy 490 litres (expanding to 1,495 litres with the rear seats folded). If you're not ready, or can't switch to electric, then consider the iX1's more affordable petrol-powered sibling - the X1.

The Suzuki Swace is a spacious, economical estate car

Suzuki Swace - from £29,999

With enough room for the family, a dog and luggage, estate cars were once the top choice for road trips. There's still a good choice if SUVs aren't for you. The affordable Swace, which is basically a Suzuki-badged Toyota Corolla Touring Sports, is well worth considering. Its efficient full petrol hybrid tech means it's capable of an impressive 62.7mpg, while CO2 emissions are as low as 102g/km. Inside, the Swace offers space for five with enough head and legroom for six-footers in the back. What’s more, there’s 596 litres of boot space (expandable to 1,232 litres if you drop the back seats).

The new Peugeot e-Rifter is a leftfield road trip choice

Peugeot e-Rifter - from £32,230

Refreshed for 2024, Peugeot's popular multi-purpose leisure vehicle is now all-electric with a range of up to 199 miles. Very similar to its cousins, the Citroen e-Berlingo and Vauxhall Combo Life, the new e-Rifter now looks much cooler inside and out, and it's available with two lengths – 4.4 metres and 4.7 metres – allowing five and seven-seat configurations, and up to 4,000 litres of load capacity.

The new Countryman is the biggest MINI ever

MINI Countryman – from £29,335

Looking like a cross between an estate and an SUV, the optical illusion that is the Countryman is actually about the same size as a family-sized Nissan Qashqai crossover. One thing is for sure, the new Countryman is the biggest MINI ever. A design evolution of the outgoing model, the biggest wow factor is inside where there's the first world’s first circular infotainment display. Fun to drive, well equipped and nicely finished, there's plenty of room inside for all the family with up to 460 litres of boot space (expanding to 1,450 litres when the rear seats are folded).

Honda Civic: One of the last family hatchbacks

Honda Civic - from £35,005

Remember when hatchbacks were the car of choice for families? SUVs aren’t for everybody and thankfully some manufacturers still give us the choice. And family hatchbacks don’t get much better than the latest Civic. Only available as a full hybrid (so there’s no need to plug it in to charge), it's sleek, safe, well built, packed with the latest tech, and rewarding to drive. CO2 emissions are as low as 108g/km, while fuel economy is up to 60.1mpg. There’s plenty of room up front, while rear passengers have space to stretch their legs, and only very tall people might struggle for headroom. The boot is a generous 410 litres, rising to 1,220 litres with the back seats flipped down, while the load space is long and wide.

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Lexus LM - from £89,995

And finally, if you prefer to travel in luxury and money is no object, then look no further than the epic Lexus LM luxury people carrier. Two versions are offered, with four or seven seats. The flagship four-seater features two “captain’s chair’ rear seats (inspired by those found in first class airline cabins) which can also be fully reclined. The seven-seat model has two seats with massage functionality, plus a third row of flip-up seats which can be folded away when more load space is required. In short, the Lexus LM recaptures the feeling of flying on a private jet, delivering superb comfort, refinement, quality, practicality and privacy.

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From saving on gas to driving with kids, here's your ultimate road trip planner

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Ina Daly has spent most of her life on the road.

“My dad was a truck driver and that led me to becoming a truck driver,” she said. “What we do in a day, on a daily job would be like a long road trip to most people.”

With nearly 40 years of driving for freight transportation services provider XPO and numerous industry accolades under her belt, including grand champion at this year’s Arizona Truck Driving Championship , Daly is a pro. She’s also a mom and a grandmother who’s happy to share her experiences to make everyone’s road trips better.

“Some of the things I'm telling you are what we truckers tell our family members,” she said. “I've had a lot of accomplishments in my career and going to the National Truck Driving Championships (this month) is a reward, but the bigger reward is being able to share some things … that have the potential to save lives.”

What to do before a long drive

“Make sure that your vehicle’s road trip ready,” Daly said. ”Really pay close attention to your tires, your coolant, your fan belt.”

She notes tire dealers often offer free inspections to ensure tires are properly inflated and undamaged.

AAA spokesperson Aixa Diaz advises getting the whole car serviced before hitting the road.

“If you're a car person and you can, do that yourself at home, by all means,” she said. Otherwise, she recommends getting the oil changed and battery and tires checked professionally.

To save time and avoid stress, Diaz also suggests filling up on gas the night before leaving and making hotel reservations well in advance, noting that many hotels allow cancellations without penalty up until the day beforehand.

What do you need before a road trip?

It’s always good to keep an emergency kit with supplies like first aid, a flashlight and extra batteries, and basic tools in the vehicle.

“You want to make sure that if you do have a tire issue, you have the proper tools and jacks in your vehicle to be able to change it,” Daly said. She said warning signals like reflective triangles can also warn other drivers to steer clear in the event of a breakdown.

For road trips, both she and Diaz recommend shelf-stable snacks like protein bars that won’t melt and plenty of water. “Don't think that a bottle or two for everybody is enough,” Daly said. “You've got to have, you know, five or six bottles for everyone.”

Diaz also recommends wet wipes, blankets during the winter, and any time-sensitive medication or pet food that might be needed in the event of an extended delay.

“These things ideally wouldn't take up too much room in your trunk but they're just good to have in case of an emergency,” Diaz said. “Just think, ‘If I were stuck for a long time, what would keep me comfortable until I was able to (get) help?’”

A printed map and a general sense of the route can also help in case there GPS hiccups or a phone dies. AAA’s free TripTik planner can help travelers plot their trips in advance and find rest stops, lodging, food and gas along the way. And its free Gas Cost Calculator can help locate the cheapest average gas prices for drivers when it’s time to refuel.

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What I should know before a road trip?

“Everything can be a distraction in the car – the radio, the kids, etc. But the phone is a big one,” Daly advised. “When you’re driving, that thing should not ever be in your hand.”

More than 3,500 people were killed on U.S. roads in 2021 because of distracted driving, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration .

Daly also recommends watching out for distracted drivers.

“You can tell a distracted driver by their fluctuating speed,” she warned. “They're drifting in their lane. Their head is looking down instead of focusing on the road. You want to give those people a wide berth.”

How long will a road trip take?

Road trips always take longer than expected because of traffic, construction and other things that arise en route.

Diaz says to expect at least an hour longer than whatever the GPS predicts. Daly recommends leaving at least two hours early.

“You don't want that stressful drive,” Daly said. “You’re hurrying. That lends to bad driving behaviors like tailgating and speeding, which leads to accidents. Don’t put yourself in that situation.”

How many hours a day should you drive on a road trip?

“It just varies so much from person to person, how long they’re comfortable driving,” Diaz said. “We want to err on the side of safety. We want people to be safe on the roads and drive the speed limit and not rush it, but everybody's different.”

Switching out drivers can lighten the load, but no matter who is driving, Daly said, “If you're starting to feel a little, less attentive, maybe a little fatigued, it’s time to take a break.”

What time is best to drive?

“We always recommend, especially during the holidays, leave early in the morning,” Diaz said. “The later you leave in the day, the worse it's going to be because a lot of times during the week … you're going to mix with those commuters on the road.”

“Some people enjoy night driving,” she added. “Once you get to like 8 p.m., 9 p.m. traffic comes down a lot.”

However, she noted drivers who leave in the evening should watch out for fatigue and plan to drive less than if they started fresh in the morning.

How do you take a good road trip with kids?

When possible, Daly recommends having a designated passenger to help with kids so the driver can focus on the road.

Another important thing is to keep seatbelts on the whole way.

“Kids have a tendency to take those off,” Daly said. “Make sure they stay buckled up. I've seen some horrible things out there.”

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What do kids need on a road trip?

Entertainment helps pass the time, but it doesn’t have to be digital. There are all sorts of screen-free road trip games .

Diaz recommends printing a map or list of sites or cities for kids to watch for along the way.

“You know, yell it out or mark it on your sheet,” she said. “Have some crayons in the car with them so they're following along on the trip, and they feel like they're part of it.”

“Point out historical landmarks and scenery; enjoy nature,” Daly echoed. “That's one of the things that we truck drivers love about our jobs is we get to see the country and nature.”

Stop at points of interest every few hours or simply for everyone to stretch their legs.

And for those times when kids are on screens, make sure to pack car chargers.

What is the best way to save gas?

Don’t speed.

“Fuel economy peaks at around 50 miles per hour on most cars, and then it drops off as the speeds increase,” Diaz said. “You think, ‘OK, if I just go 70, I'm going to get there faster, and it'll be better,’ but essentially, you're just wasting gas at that point." Fuel economy can be increased by as much as 15% by reducing highway speeds by 5 to 10 miles per hour, she said.

Don’t idle unnecessarily either, like at rest stops.

“Your car engine consumes about a quarter to a half a gallon of fuel per hour while it's idling,” she said. “But a warm engine only takes about 10 seconds’ worth of fuel to restart, so if it's safe to do so, just shut off your engine.”

Story continues below.

What happens if my tire blows out?

“When you blow a tire, kaboom, it freaks you out. Do not panic,” Daly said. “Don't slow down abruptly or brake hard or jerk the wheel because that will cause you to lose control and have an accident.”

“Just focus on steering,” she added. “Slow very gradually, off to the side of the road in a safe area, and you won’t have any issue from your blown tire.”

How do you drive around semitrucks?

“Be aware of our needs and limitations,” Daly said. “You know we’re big. We need a lot of space around us. We have big blind spots. … If you can’t see the truck driver’s face in the mirrors of the truck, the truck driver can’t see you.”

She advised against passing on the right.

“If you have to pass quickly, don’t linger over there. We see people driving over there for the shade (and it) puts us in a very dangerous situation,” she said. “And don’t cut in front of us and then hit your breaks. People don’t like to follow a truck because they can’t see around us, so they pass us and then cut in front of us.”

“It takes away that safety cushion we leave in front of us,” she added. “When you see all that space in front of a truck, that's not for your convenience so that you can pass us and cut into it. That’s for our safety and yours.”

By the same token, she advised fellow drivers to leave plenty of space in front of their own vehicles, so they have enough room to stop quickly in an emergency. If another driver cuts into that space, she suggested, “Take a break. Slow down again. Recreate that space. Bite your tongue and think pure thoughts.”

That last tip may not be so easy.

What has been your best or worst road trip experience?

How to travel long-distance with an Electric Vehicle in Malaysia?

S o, you’ve gotten an electric vehicle ( EV ) and now you want to take it for a road trip. There have been a lot of questions about EVs in Malaysia. Like, are EVs practical for a long-distance drive? Is it hard to find a charger? Will I get stranded without any juice left? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Over at SoyaCincau.com, we’ve driven a lot of EVs and personally, I have an Kia EV6 as a daily driver with over 15,000km on the odometer so far. We have done several long-distance road trips and most recently, we completed a single charge challenge with the Hyundai Ioniq 6 by driving from Taiping to Johor Bahru .

Understand your EV’s range and charging speed

Firstly, not all EVs are built the same. There are different motors, batteries and efficiency figures which affect the overall driving performance. You need to understand your EV’s real-world range on a full charge.

Most EVs these days can do 400km and above, but there are some with smaller batteries which do 300km or less. If your destination is say 350km away, an EV that can deliver 400km of real-world range should be able to do the job on a single charge. If the destination is further away, you’ll need to plan a charging top-up along the way. Of course, you need to buffer the range a little bit more as it all depends on your driving style.

Another thing to take note of is your EV’s supported charging speed. For long-distance drives, you would need to use DC fast charging but the charging rate is different for each car. Some can do over 200kW, while others may do 100kW or less.

For AC charging, this is the most cost-effective way to charge when your car is not in use. For example when you’re at a hotel, shopping mall or at a tourist attraction.

Most EVs can do 11kW on AC where a full charge can be achieved in about 5-7 hours. But there are other EVs especially from China like BYD Atto 3 / Dolphin and GWM Ora Good Cat that charge slower at 7kW. A full charge may take 10 hours or longer, depending on the battery size.

There are some EVs like the Renault Zoe or the Lotus Eletre that can accept 22kW on AC. With this charging rate, you can get a full charge in as little as 3 hours (for the Zoe) which is amazing.

Plan your EV charging route

Unlike petrol stations, the reality is that EV chargers are still not widely available in Malaysia. However, the situation is improving gradually as more charge point operators are deploying more EV chargers nationwide. Finding a place to charge your EV isn’t very obvious since most charging locations don’t display a huge sign like petrol stations.

It is still possible to have a seamless long-distance trip on your EV, just that you just need a little bit of planning.

In a typical road trip, you definitely need some toilet breaks along the way and you can plan those breaks with a bit of EV charging. A quick 10-20 minutes of DC fast charging is usually sufficient for a decent top-up.

So if you’re travelling somewhere, find out what chargers are available at the destination as well as for the midpoint of the journey. At the moment, there are quite a number of EV chargers between Johor to Penang and there are some chargers between the East Coast and the Klang Valley. When you reach the destination, we recommend finding AC chargers as they are much cheaper to charge when your car is not in use for several hours.

Recommended apps to plan your EV journey in Malaysia

So how do you find EV chargers and where should you charge? Here are a couple of apps that you can download to make your road trip better.

The first app is Plugshare ( Apple App Store , Google Play Store ) which is basically like the Foursquare of EV chargers. Not only you can view all chargers on the map, but you can also check out details of the charger, which network is it on and also read the reviews and comments for the charger. Plugshare is also a great place to find out how to get to the charger, especially if it is inside a building’s basement car park. DC chargers are marked in orange while slower AC chargers are marked in green.

Also, we recommend performing a check-in so that people know that you’re using a charger and the rate of charge you’re getting. This is great for the EV community so that everyone knows the status of the charger.

A Better Route Planner

Another recommended app to plan your journey is ABRP or also known as A Better Route Planner ( Apple App Store , Google Play Store ). You can select your EV model, choose the starting and end point of your trip, and it will recommend charging stops along the way. It even recommends the duration and percentage of each charge as well as the expected state of charge for each stop.

You can even add filters like having fewer or more stops along the way, and also how much charge remaining you would like to have when you reach the destination. There are a lot of options to plan the route including changing the recommended charging location to alternative chargers and adjusting the time to charge for each stop.

Good driving habits improve efficiency of your EV

Your driving habits have a huge impact on your EV’s mileage. If you’re light footed you can probably squeeze more range from a single charge and get somewhere closer to the advertised range. If you’re heavy-footed with lots of aggressive overtaking, you would get a much lower range.

You might hear people saying that EVs won’t survive a traffic jam during Balik Kampung trips. Actually, that’s a myth and EVs do better than petrol engines when it comes to crawling traffic. When you’re stuck in the jam, the motors are not using any energy and the batteries are merely used to run the aircon and electronics which is about 1kW. In stop-and-go traffic, EVs are highly efficient as they use regenerative braking to recoup energy back to the battery. In fact, having a lower average speed of 50-80km/h on an EV offers greater energy efficiency than driving at over 100km/h.

To really get the most out of your EV’s battery, just keep to the speed limit and you’ll do just fine. Personally, I’ll recommend setting adaptive cruise control at the permitted maximum speed limit (e.g. 110km/h) and sticking to the left lane unless overtaking.

Best way to charge your EV for long-distance trips

Here’s where a lot of first-time EV owners get it wrong. You probably heard some users complain about EVs taking too long to charge or spending over RM100 just for one charging stop, which can be avoided. With an EV, you don’t really need to charge it to full all the time. I know it is an old habit with petrol cars where we tend to do a full tank.

With EVs, there’s something called the charging curve and essentially, the charging rate slows down significantly when the battery reaches 80%.

Similar to smartphones, EVs often boast about their fast charging speeds from 10 to 80%. The reason for that is that the time to charge from 80-100% may take longer than charging from 10-80%.

So, don’t waste time and money trying to charge your EV to 100%. Instead of wasting over 40 minutes at a charger, you should probably do a quick 20-minute charge while you go for a toilet break, and then move on and charge at the next R&R when the battery percentage is low.

When you’re at a DC charging stop, just charge what you need or up to 80%. If you plan your journey properly and there’s a charger at the destination, just make sure you have enough range to get there with about 50km of extra buffer.

Of course, there are some exceptions. If you’re driving a short-range EV with small batteries like the Mazda MX-30, Mini Cooper Electric or the older Nissan Leaf, then you’ll probably need the 100% charge to reach the next stop if the range is not enough.

Recommended charging networks for DC fast charging

From our experience with interstate road trips, we would recommend Gentari , JomCharge and ChargEV . Most of their new DC chargers are using kWh-based pricing which is a much fairer way to pay for EV charging, especially for EVs with low maximum charging speed. These are some that are priced per minute but their rates are generally pretty reasonable.

Our least favourite DC fast charging network is Shell Recharge along the North-South Expressway . These chargers cost RM4 per minute which is expensive and on top of that, you need to have at least RM200 in your ParkEasy account in order to start charging. We recommend that you stay away from these chargers unless you really need to use them as a last resort.

Of course, there are other charging networks out there like ChargeSini and TNB Electron which are pretty decent as well. So search around using the PlugShare app because there could be a better EV charger around the corner.

EV challenges that you should know

During the festive season, there’s always a concern about long queues to charge, which does happen at popular stops with just a single charger. If you want a higher chance of an available charger, do find alternative EV charging hubs with more nozzles or stations. You can search around using the Plugshare app.

If a charger is offered for free, it is likely there will be a long queue during peak seasons. So it might be more worthwhile to pay a little bit more for a charger that’s more likely to be available.

Most, if not all EVs, don’t have a spare tyre and most brands do this in the name of weight saving. In most cases, newer cars including hybrids and EVs come with a tyre repair kit but from my experience, that can destroy any chances of repairing the tyre. You see, most repair kits that use a liquid sealant are just a temporary one-time solution. Whether or not it works, you’ll have to replace it with a new one which can be a costly affair .

My suggestion is either get the car towed to a workshop or get one of those DIY tyre repair strips. If you’re travelling on tolled highways, you can contact the highway assist team to help jack your car and patch the tyre with the DIY kit.

How to travel long-distance with an Electric Vehicle in Malaysia?

IMAGES

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25 Best Cars For Long Distance Driving
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COMMENTS

Best Road Trip Cars in 2023
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid takes everything that has made this compact SUV popular over the years, like a comfortable ride and plenty of standard high-tech features, and added a fuel-efficient and quick-accelerating hybrid powertrain. It can get up to 41 mpg on the highway, which helps cut road trip costs. It was also a finalist for our Best Hybrid SUV for the Money award.
The 15 Best Road Trip Cars 2024
The 2022 Kia Stinger is gorgeous and one of the best road trip cars for 2022 and beyond. With the Sun and Sound package, this sports sedan is outfitted with 720-watt Harman Kardon QuantumLogic ...
10 Best Road-Trip Vehicles That You Can Buy Right Now
All the vehicles featured here, except the Buick, come standard with forward collision warning (FCW) and automatic emergency braking. (AEB) with pedestrian detection. (The advanced safety systems ...
Consumers' Favorites: Best Cars for Long Road Trips
Consumers' Favorites: Best Cars for Long Road Trips. The athletic and involving BMW 3 Series wagon comfortably took the top spot, with 26.0 percent of the vote. Second place went to the well ...
The Best Road Trip Cars for Exploring Solo, Sightseeing with Family
Genesis G70. The refined Genesis G70 has been named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, one of many accolades for this polished, comfortable sedan. It's a pleasure ...
10 Best Road Trip Cars of 2021
Best Road Trip Cars of 2021. As far as we're concerned, it's always road trip season. No matter the weather outside, the time of year, or even the destination, we love to get behind the wheel ...
The Best Road Trip Cars From Every Category
The Crossover: 2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid. This fuel-efficient road trip car boasts a hybrid system, achieving an impressive 38 mpg combined EPA rating. The hybrid powertrain comprises a 1.6-liter ...
The 10 Best Road Trip Cars
Best Affordable Pick: One of the most versatile vehicles currently on the market, the latest generation Subaru Outback is a fantastic road trip car with seating for five, more than 75 cubic feet of cargo space, and an optional turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer engine. With features like 9.5" of ground clearance and asymmetrical all-wheel drive as standard, the Outback is also capable of some ...
The Best Vehicles for Road Trips in 2024
On a road trip, though, the Suburban is comfortable and capable, no matter which of the three engine choices you select. The most suitable for long-distance touring would be the 3.0-liter turbodiesel, which provides 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway in the four-wheel drive (4WD) configuration.
Best Road Trip Cars: Top 10
For passengers, the best road trip cars need one thing above all else - comfort. ... the sweet spot for long distance driving is either the sedan or hatchback with the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine.
The Best Road Trip Cars
2020 Volvo XC90. 2020 Toyota Prius. 2020 Mazda MX-5. 2020 Jaguar F-Type Convertible. Lexus LS 400. Volkswagen Westfalia Camper. Ford Crown Victoria. Show 9 more items. The best road trip cars have ...
10 best cars for long distance driving
Here are 10 of the best cars for long-distance drivers: 1. BMW i5. Ideal long-distance spec: eDrive40, up to 357 miles of range. Really comfortable for hours behind the wheel. Impressive range. Rapid charging for quick motorway battery top-ups. Buy a new BMW i5 through Carwow. The BMW 5 Series has long been the go-to choice for those who spend ...
10 Best Road Trip Cars
Although the standard Leaf's 40-kilowatt-hour battery and 147-hp electric motor offer just 149 miles of range per EPA-estimates, the extended-range Leaf Plus brings a more road-trip-worthy 226 ...
The 8 Best Cars For Long-Distance Driving in 2024
1. 2022 Subaru Forester. The 2022 Subaru Forester is an excellent car option for long-distance driving. It's ideal for trips that may involve traversing off-road for a portion. The car has a USN safety score of 9. 5 ⁄ 10 and gets excellent mileage on the road - 26 in the city and 33 on the highway.
10 Best Cars for Traveling Long Distances
Best for a family road trip: 2018 Honda Accord. The 2018 Honda Accord mid-size sedan has made frequent appearances on "best of" lists, and for good reason. Today's 10th-generation Accord is the best in a long line of excellent Honda vehicles, and it makes a great long-distance car. Select the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and 10-speed ...
Best Cars for Your Road Trip
Many also offer active driver assistance technology that can make driving less stressful. The Lexus RX450h and Toyota Highlander Hybrid and Sienna can even tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly ...
The 10 best cars for a road trip
The BMW R80 G/S is the absolute daddy of putting yourself out there. In fact, ever since its introduction in 1980, it's pretty much redefined just how out there one can put oneself. The G/S in ...
The best cars to rent for every kind of road trip
The standard Mustang is no slouch: It comes equipped with a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 310 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque. But if you really want to have fun carving the curves of a long and winding coastal highway, splurge for the GT convertible, which comes with a 5.0-liter V8 producing 460 horsepower and 420 lb ...
10 Best Affordable Road Trip Cars
9. 2016 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel. If the Chevy Traverse's 5,200-pound towing capacity seems puny to you, perhaps the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel's 9,050-lb capacity is more like it. If your road trip involves ...
Most Comfortable Vehicles for Long-Distance Trips
The 2022 Acura TLX, Chevrolet Tahoe, and Toyota Sienna are some of the very best cars, SUVs, and minivans for optimal comfort on long-distance trips. Investing in a comfortable car is important, especially if you're someone who commutes to work daily. Long-haul road trips just up the ante, making the ergonomic features of a vehicle one of the ...
Good long distance car : r/whatcarshouldIbuy
An Acura TLX would give you an in-between for reliability and luxury and also sportiness. Volvo V60. Small SUV such as Honda CRV, Toyota Rav4, Mazda CX-5 or Hyundai Tucson. A midsize sedan is probably the best road trip vehicle for two people, a dog, and some luggage.
Best new cars for family road trips: SUVs, hatchbacks and estates
From SUVs to hatchbacks and estates, discover 11 of the best new cars for family road trips. A selection of spacious cars suitable for long-distance travel, whatever your budget
The 11 Best Long Range Electric Cars on the Market (2024)
Though the average American drives fewer than 40 miles per day, the ability to take a longer road trip, to visit friends or family, or go on a vacation, is akin to a national right.
5 Best Road Trip Games for Kids
One way to keep children entertained on long car trips is by playing games, and today, I'm sharing five of the best road trip games for kids. 5 BEST ROAD TRIP GAMES FOR KIDS 1.
Road trip planner: Your ultimate guide to a safe and fun vacation
What to do before a long drive "Make sure that your vehicle's road trip ready," Daly said. "Really pay close attention to your tires, your coolant, your fan belt."
The best long-distance moving companies 2024
With 75 years of experience, Atlas Van Lines earns high marks for providing full-service local and long-distance moves, full-service packing and unpacking and vehicle shipping for longer-distance ...
How to travel long-distance with an Electric Vehicle in Malaysia?
Over at SoyaCincau.com, we've driven a lot of EVs and personally, I have an Kia EV6 as a daily driver with over 15,000km on the odometer so far. We have done several long-distance road trips and ...

Best Road Trip Cars in 2023

Looking for Adventure? Head Out on the Highway!

2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

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2023 Volkswagen Atlas

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2023 Lincoln Navigator

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2023 Chevrolet Suburban

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2023 Genesis G90

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2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

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2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

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2024 Kia Carnival

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2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

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2023 Ram 1500

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2023 Honda Civic

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2023 Ford Mustang

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The Best Road Trip Cars for Exploring Solo, Sightseeing with Family, and More

For packing in the whole family

Chevy Suburban

For trekking 2,500 miles across the country

Genesis G70

For exploring solo, safely

Ford Mustang

Honda Accord

For navigating the backroads

Subaru Ascent

Volkswagen Atlas

For going greener

Toyota Prius

Jaguar I-Pace

The Best Road Trip Cars From Every Category

Civic Hatchback

The Hatchback: 2024 Honda Civic Hatch

The Crossover: 2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

The Sports Car: 2024 Mustang GT Coupe

The Wagon: 2024 Volvo V60 Cross Country

The Minivan: 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid

The Truck: 2024 Ford F-150 Raptor

The Full-Size SUV: 2023 Cadillac Escalade

The Grand Tourer: 2024 Lexus LC Hybrid

The Luxury Sedan: 2024 Audi S8

The Convertible: 2023 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet

The 10 Best Road Trip Cars for Open-Road Adventures

The Best Road Trip Cars Rundown

Subaru Outback

Ford Bronco Sport

Abarth 124GT

Volvo XC60 Recharge

Jeep Grand Wagoneer

Audi RS 6 Avant Performance

Porsche Taycan GTS Sport Turismo

BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive Gran Coupe

Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid

Aston Martin DBX707

Long-Haul Legends

The Best SUVs for Camping

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Best Road Trip Cars: Top 10

Buick Enclave

Chevrolet Suburban Diesel