Planning a road trip can be exciting, but choosing the right car is crucial for a smooth, comfortable, and memorable journey. Whether you’re heading across states or exploring scenic countryside routes, the best cars for road trips combine comfort, fuel efficiency, storage capacity, and entertainment features.
This guide covers top-performing vehicles that make long drives enjoyable and cost-effective. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, these options offer reliability, comfort, and value.
What Makes a Car Ideal for Road Trips?
Before diving into the list, it’s important to understand the key features that make a vehicle road-trip-worthy:
1. Comfortable Seating
Long hours on the road require supportive, adjustable seats for both drivers and passengers.
2. Fuel Efficiency
Better mileage means fewer stops at gas stations and more savings throughout your journey.
3. Cargo Space
Room for luggage, gear, coolers, and other road trip essentials is a must.
4. Infotainment System
Touchscreens, navigation, Bluetooth, and smartphone integration keep everyone entertained and connected.
5. Safety Features
Advanced driver assistance like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist ensure peace of mind.
Best Cars for Road Trips in 2025
Here are top vehicles ranked for road trip performance, comfort, and efficiency:
1. Subaru Outback
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Type: Crossover SUV
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MPG: Up to 33 highway
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Why It’s Great: Standard all-wheel drive, spacious interior, and large cargo area make the Outback a reliable road trip companion, especially for outdoor adventures.
2. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
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Type: Hybrid SUV
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MPG: Up to 41 city / 38 highway
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Why It’s Great: Excellent fuel economy, high safety scores, and roomy seating make it ideal for long drives with family or friends.
3. Honda CR-V
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Type: Compact SUV
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MPG: Up to 34 highway
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Why It’s Great: Offers excellent comfort, cargo space, and a quiet ride — all essential for road trips.
4. Kia Telluride
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Type: Midsize SUV
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MPG: Up to 26 highway
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Why It’s Great: Three-row seating, premium interior, and user-friendly tech make it perfect for group road trips.
5. Mazda CX-5
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Type: Compact SUV
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MPG: Up to 31 highway
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Why It’s Great: Sporty handling, upscale cabin, and comfortable seats provide a luxury feel at an affordable price.
6. Chrysler Pacifica
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Type: Minivan
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MPG: Up to 28 highway (gas), 82 MPGe (hybrid)
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Why It’s Great: Ultimate road trip vehicle for families, with tons of space, entertainment screens, and USB ports for all passengers.
7. Chevrolet Tahoe
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Type: Full-Size SUV
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MPG: Up to 28 highway (diesel option)
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Why It’s Great: Ideal for long-distance travel with large groups, with towing capacity and spacious third-row seating.
Road Trip Car Comparison Table
| Vehicle | Type | MPG (Highway) | Seating Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subaru Outback | Crossover | 33 | 5 | Adventure & off-road |
| Toyota RAV4 Hybrid | Hybrid SUV | 38 | 5 | Fuel efficiency |
| Honda CR-V | Compact SUV | 34 | 5 | All-around performance |
| Kia Telluride | Midsize SUV | 26 | 7–8 | Group road trips |
| Mazda CX-5 | Compact SUV | 31 | 5 | Comfort & style |
| Chrysler Pacifica | Minivan | 28 / 82 MPGe | 7–8 | Families with kids |
| Chevrolet Tahoe | Full-Size SUV | 28 (diesel) | 7–8 | Large family or towing |
Honorable Mention: Fuel-Efficient Sedans
While SUVs are top choices for road trips, don’t overlook fuel-efficient sedans like the Toyota Camry Hybrid and Honda Accord. These models provide comfort, advanced safety features, and great mileage for couples or solo travelers.
Interestingly, many of these sedans and compact SUVs are also affordable cars with high resale value, making them smart choices for both travel and long-term ownership.
Road Trip Tips for a Better Experience
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Plan Fuel Stops in Advance: Use apps to find the cheapest gas prices and rest stops.
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Pack Smart: Keep essentials like snacks, chargers, water, and a first-aid kit within reach.
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Download Entertainment: Audiobooks, playlists, and offline maps help pass the time.
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Check Tire Pressure and Fluids: Prep your car before the trip for optimal performance and safety.
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Consider Roof Racks or Cargo Boxes: If luggage space is tight, these add valuable storage.
FAQs
What is the most reliable car for long road trips?
The Subaru Outback and Toyota RAV4 Hybrid are among the most reliable cars for road trips, thanks to their durability, fuel efficiency, and comfort.
Are SUVs better than sedans for road trips?
SUVs generally offer more space and cargo flexibility, but sedans like the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry are also excellent for two-person trips due to their fuel economy and ride comfort.
Which car has the most cargo space for a road trip?
The Chrysler Pacifica and Chevrolet Tahoe lead in cargo space, making them ideal for large families or travelers with lots of gear.
Do hybrid cars perform well on long road trips?
Yes. Hybrids like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offer excellent mileage and are very reliable for extended trips.
How do I choose the best car for my travel needs?
Consider the number of passengers, type of terrain, fuel economy, and required cargo space. Also, factor in safety features and technology to enhance the driving experience.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best cars for road trips depends on your lifestyle, travel plans, and comfort preferences. Whether you’re navigating mountain roads, cruising highways, or camping out of the trunk, the vehicles on this list offer the reliability, comfort, and versatility needed for memorable travel experiences.
From budget-friendly sedans to luxurious SUVs, these cars are built to go the distance—literally. And as a bonus, many of these models are also affordable cars with high resale value, making them smart long-term investments.
Start your next journey with the right vehicle, and enjoy the road ahead with confidence and comfort.