Cruising in Comfort: The 20 Recommended Cars for Long Road Trips

“Road trip to Buckeye; Tire Shop #3” by kevin dooley is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Embarking on a long road trip can be an exhilarating journey filled with scenic views and exciting destinations. However, the right vehicle can transform this experience from a long slog into a comfortable cruise. Whether you’re driving for leisure or need to haul luggage and family members, a comfortable car is essential. In this article, we will explore the twenty best cars for long road trips—each designed for comfort, safety, and reliability on those lengthy journeys.

1. **Subaru Outback**: The Subaru Outback is a perennial favorite among road trippers. Its all-wheel drive capabilities and rugged reliability make it perfect for adventures on and off the beaten path. The spacious interior is designed for comfort, featuring supportive seating and a quiet cabin. With up to 75.7 cubic feet of cargo space, you will have ample room for luggage, sports equipment, or even a furry companion. It also comes equipped with advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control, ensuring peace of mind during travels.

2. **Honda CR-V**: This compact SUV is renowned for its fuel efficiency and practicality. The Honda CR-V boasts a spacious cabin that can accommodate both passengers and cargo comfortably. The ride quality is smooth, and with features like the Honda Sensing safety suite, it makes for a reliable choice on long-distance trips. With options for leather-trimmed seating and advanced technology integration, the CR-V is built for comfort and convenience on the road.

3. **Toyota RAV4**: Another strong contender in the compact SUV category is the Toyota RAV4. It combines a spacious interior with great fuel efficiency, making it a fantastic option for families. The RAV4 features a robust design suitable for various driving conditions. Additionally, it offers impressive safety ratings and advanced tech features that enhance the driving experience, making it a practical choice for long journeys.

4. **Ford Explorer**: The Ford Explorer is a midsize SUV that excels in comfort and technology. With three rows of seating, it’s perfect for larger families or groups traveling together. The Explorer’s sophisticated infotainment system keeps everyone entertained and informed on the road. Plus, its powerful engine options provide a smooth ride, whether you’re navigating through city traffic or cruising down the highway. The ample cargo space ensures you can carry all essentials without feeling cramped.

5. **Tesla Model X**: For those embracing electric vehicles, the Tesla Model X is a top-tier option. With its spacious interior and cutting-edge technology, it redefines comfort. The Model X features an impressive range, allowing for long trips without the constant worry of recharging. Its advanced safety features and autopilot capabilities provide a unique driving experience that can take some of the stress out of long drives.

6. **BMW X5**: Luxury meets practicality in the BMW X5. This midsize luxury SUV offers a plush interior filled with high-end materials, ensuring a comfortable ride. The X5 is equipped with powerful engine options and advanced technology, making it both fun to drive and practical for long trips. With its spacious cargo area and numerous comfort features, it stands out as a premium choice for travel enthusiasts.

7. **Mercedes-Benz GLE**: Known for its sumptuous interior and advanced technology, the Mercedes-Benz GLE is a luxury SUV that prioritizes comfort. Its spacious cabin offers a serene environment for long journeys, and the state-of-the-art infotainment system keeps passengers engaged. The GLE’s smooth ride and robust performance make it an excellent vehicle for extended road trips, and it comes loaded with safety features to enhance security.

8. **Chevrolet Tahoe**: If you need a full-size SUV, the Chevrolet Tahoe offers ample space and comfort. This vehicle is perfect for families with its three-row seating and excellent cargo capacity. The Tahoe is built to handle long distances with ease, thanks to its powerful engine and smooth ride quality. Its interior is designed with comfort in mind, featuring high-quality materials and an intuitive infotainment system.

9. **Honda Odyssey**: While often overlooked, the Honda Odyssey is a powerhouse for family road trips. This minivan excels in passenger space, comfort, and practicality, making it an ideal choice for families. With features like rear entertainment systems and ample storage, it turns long drives into enjoyable experiences for everyone. The Odyssey’s reliability and safety features further enhance its appeal as a family vehicle.

10. **Volvo XC90**: The Volvo XC90 is synonymous with safety and comfort. This luxury SUV offers a sophisticated design paired with advanced safety features, making it a smart choice for long trips. The interior is spacious and well-appointed, ensuring that all passengers enjoy a comfortable ride. With its powerful yet efficient engine options, the XC90 combines performance with practicality perfectly.

11. **Mazda CX-9**: If you are searching for an SUV that feels sporty but is still family-friendly, the Mazda CX-9 is worth considering. Its responsive handling provides a connected driving experience, while the upscale interior offers comfort for passengers. With three rows of seating and a stylish design, the CX-9 is perfect for both everyday use and long-distance travel.

12. **Hyundai Palisade**: The Hyundai Palisade is rapidly becoming a favorite among families for its blend of comfort, safety, and value. It features a spacious interior with user-friendly technology and safety systems that enhance your driving experience. The Palisade’s smooth ride and ample storage capacity make it an outstanding option for families embarking on long road trips.

13. **Kia Telluride**: The Kia Telluride has quickly gained recognition as one of the best SUVs for family road trips. With a spacious interior and three rows of seating, it can comfortably accommodate your whole family and their gear. The Telluride is equipped with high-quality materials and advanced tech features, ensuring a pleasant experience on long drives. Additionally, it boasts impressive safety ratings and offers an upscale vibe that rivals more expensive luxury SUVs, making it an excellent value choice for road-tripping families.

14. **Chrysler Pacifica**: If you’re looking for a family vehicle that combines space and comfort, the Chrysler Pacifica is a standout minivan. It offers an incredibly versatile interior with Stow ‘n Go seating, allowing you to easily configure the cabin for cargo or passengers. The Pacifica is loaded with family-friendly features, including an available rear entertainment system, making it a hit with kids. Plus, its smooth ride and great fuel efficiency make it a top choice for long-haul journeys.

15. **Ford F-150**: While traditionally known as a truck, the Ford F-150 offers impressive comfort and technology that can make it suitable for long road trips. Its spacious cabin can be outfitted with all the creature comforts you desire, and ample cargo space is guaranteed. With multiple engine options and configurations, you can tailor the F-150 to your exact needs, ensuring a capable and comfortable ride, whether you’re towing a trailer or just enjoying the open road.

16. **Nissan Murano**: The Nissan Murano is an excellent choice for those prioritizing comfort and style in an SUV. With its sleek design and premium interior materials, it provides a sophisticated atmosphere for both driver and passengers. The Murano’s spacious seating and cargo area, alongside its smooth ride and advanced safety features, make it well-suited for long-distance travel, helping to keep everyone relaxed throughout the journey.

17. **Hyundai Tucson**: The Hyundai Tucson stands out in the compact SUV segment with its feature-rich interior and comfortable ride. It offers a generous amount of cargo space and impressive technology options, including an intuitive infotainment system. The Tucson is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, making it a practical option for road trips without sacrificing comfort or style.

18. **Jeep Grand Cherokee**: For those who crave adventure without compromising on comfort, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is a top-notch option. It combines off-road capability with a luxurious interior, ensuring a smooth ride on any terrain. With spacious seating and advanced technology, the Grand Cherokee is perfect for both family trips and individual adventures. Its variety of powertrains, including hybrid options, allows for flexibility depending on your needs.

19. **Acura MDX**: The Acura MDX is a luxury SUV that delivers on comfort and performance. It features a refined interior with upscale materials and spacious seating for up to seven passengers. With a host of tech features and a smooth, quiet ride, the MDX is tailored for long journeys. Its advanced safety and driver-assistance technologies make it a safe choice for family road trips, giving peace of mind on the road.

20. **Lexus RX**: Known for its reliability and luxurious feel, the Lexus RX is another excellent option for road trips. It offers a plush interior with comfortable seating and a user-friendly infotainment system. The RX’s quiet cabin and smooth ride contribute to a relaxing driving experience, while its suite of safety features ensures that you and your passengers are well-protected on the road. This blend of comfort and practicality makes the RX a worthy contender for any long-distance journey.

vehicle road trip — Royalty-Free photo: Two women inside van | PickPik, Photo by pickpik.com, is licensed under CC Zero

Embarking on a long road trip can be a thrilling adventure, and the right vehicle can make all the difference in your journey. Each of these options has unique benefits, ensuring that your travel experience is as enjoyable as possible. Whether you prioritize space, comfort, technology, or safety, there’s a perfect car out there ready to accompany you on your next great escape. So gear up, load the car, and let the road take you to new horizons!