Motor Trend’s Top Road Trip Car Recommendations

There’s something magical about hitting the open road with nothing but the hum of your engine and the promise of new adventures ahead. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an epic cross-country journey, the right car can elevate the experience from good to unforgettable. Choosing the best road trip cars can make all the difference, offering comfort, reliability, and the necessary features to ensure your journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. In this guide, we explore Motor Trend’s road trip picks for the ideal road trip companions, featuring top cars for long drives that are tailored for comfort, efficiency, and style.

1. Honda CR-V – The Dependable All-Rounder

When it comes to the best road trip cars, the Honda CR-V stands out as a reliable and versatile option. Known for its spacious cabin, efficient fuel economy, and smooth ride, this compact SUV delivers the perfect balance of comfort and practicality for long drives. The generous cargo space allows you to pack your road trip essentials—whether it’s luggage, camping gear, or snacks—without sacrificing legroom.

Additionally, the CR-V comes equipped with advanced safety features, ensuring peace of mind as you cruise down highways and backroads. If you’re looking for an all-around performer, the Honda CR-V should be near the top of your list for Motor Trend’s road trip picks.

2. Toyota RAV4 – A Rugged and Refined Choice

For those who crave a bit of adventure on their road trip, the Toyota RAV4 is a great option. It strikes an impressive balance between ruggedness and refinement, making it one of the top cars for long drives. With excellent fuel efficiency, all-wheel-drive capabilities, and a smooth ride, the RAV4 is equipped to handle both city streets and rougher terrains.

Inside, it offers a comfortable cabin with user-friendly tech and a suite of safety features like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. Whether you’re embarking on a scenic route or tackling a challenging trail, the Toyota RAV4 offers the versatility and dependability you need for a memorable road trip.

3. Ford Mustang – The Classic Road Trip Cruiser

Sometimes, a road trip is about more than just getting from point A to point B—it’s about enjoying the drive itself. For those who appreciate power and performance, the Ford Mustang is a road trip vehicle like no other. With its unmistakable roar and exhilarating performance, this iconic muscle car brings excitement to the road.

The Mustang might not be the most practical option for large families or those needing a lot of cargo space, but for solo travelers or couples looking to hit the open road in style, it’s hard to beat. It offers a surprisingly comfortable ride for long distances, and with its robust engine options, the Mustang ensures you can cruise through the highways with confidence.

4. Chevrolet Traverse – Spacious and Comfortable for Families

For families looking for a spacious and comfortable ride on their next road trip, the Chevrolet Traverse is an excellent choice. With three rows of seating, it comfortably accommodates up to eight passengers, ensuring everyone has room to stretch out. Whether you’re traveling with kids, pets, or a group of friends, the Traverse offers ample space for everyone and everything.

The cabin is quiet and refined, and the Motor Trend road trip picks highlight the Traverse’s user-friendly technology, including an intuitive infotainment system. With its smooth handling and powerful engine options, the Traverse can easily tackle long stretches of highway and winding backroads, making it one of the top cars for long drives for larger groups.

5. Subaru Outback – The Adventure-Ready Wagon

For road trips that venture off the beaten path, the Subaru Outback is the ideal vehicle. This all-wheel-drive wagon combines rugged capabilities with car-like handling, making it a favorite among those who enjoy outdoor adventures. Whether you’re exploring mountain roads or heading to a remote campsite, the Outback’s high ground clearance and advanced safety features provide peace of mind during your travels.

Inside, the Outback offers a roomy and comfortable cabin with generous cargo space, perfect for gear or souvenirs. With excellent fuel economy and a reputation for reliability, the Subaru Outback deserves a spot on any list of road trip vehicle recommendations.

6. Tesla Model X – For a High-Tech, Eco-Friendly Journey

For those looking to make an eco-conscious road trip without sacrificing performance or luxury, the Tesla Model X stands out. As a fully electric SUV, it offers impressive range, quick acceleration, and cutting-edge technology, making it a strong contender for top cars for long drives. The spacious interior features ample room for passengers and luggage, while the car’s futuristic design and self-driving capabilities offer an unmatched driving experience.

Although the initial cost may be higher than traditional vehicles, the Tesla Model X’s low operating costs, sustainability, and sheer fun factor make it a prime choice for those planning a long journey. With an extensive network of supercharger stations, your road trip is only limited by your imagination.

7. Mercedes-Benz E-Class – Luxury Meets Comfort

If comfort and luxury are at the top of your priority list, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class is an excellent choice. As one of the best road trip cars for those who want a refined, premium driving experience, the E-Class delivers a plush interior, advanced driver-assistance features, and a smooth, quiet ride. Its spacious cabin offers both ample legroom and cutting-edge technology, ensuring you and your passengers can relax during long drives.

With a strong, turbocharged engine, the E-Class offers smooth acceleration and excellent fuel efficiency, making it equally at home on highways and winding country roads. For those seeking the perfect blend of luxury, performance, and practicality, the E-Class is a top pick.

8. Kia Sorento – A Hybrid Option for Efficiency

For those looking to reduce their environmental impact while still enjoying the benefits of a spacious and capable vehicle, the Kia Sorento Hybrid is an excellent option. This mid-sized SUV offers a great balance of comfort, efficiency, and technology, making it one of Motor Trend’s road trip picks for eco-conscious travelers.

With its impressive hybrid powertrain, the Sorento delivers excellent fuel economy without sacrificing performance. Inside, the Sorento is packed with modern amenities and offers plenty of space for passengers and luggage, making it a great choice for families or small groups heading on a road trip.

Conclusion

Choosing the right vehicle for a road trip can significantly enhance the experience, ensuring that your journey is as enjoyable as the destination. From the spacious Chevrolet Traverse to the eco-friendly Tesla Model X, there’s a road trip vehicle recommendation for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking luxury, adventure, or efficiency, Motor Trend’s road trip picks cover a wide range of vehicles suited to long drives. So, hit the road in one of these top cars for long drives, and make your next adventure one to remember.