When embarking on a long road trip, the right car can make all the difference. Between the need for comfort, ample storage, fuel efficiency, and entertainment features, the perfect car for road-tripping can transform hours on the highway into a delightful journey. Here’s our list of the 10 best cars for long road trips, taking into account comfort, space, and features.
Tesla Model S
The groundbreaking Tesla Model S starts at a commanding $89,880, available in two distinct trims. Its top-tier version, costing $109,880, offers unmatched electric performance and cutting-edge technology.
- Comfort: The Model S is renowned for its spacious and plush interiors. Its silent electric drive ensures a quiet cabin, reducing the fatigue that can come from constant engine noise.
- Space: With its hatchback design, there’s more than enough space for luggage. Plus, the “frunk” (front trunk) offers additional storage.
- Features: The huge central touchscreen boasts an intuitive navigation system, entertainment options, and the ability for over-the-air updates to introduce new features. The vehicle’s Autopilot feature can also ease driving on long stretches.
Honda Odyssey
The family-oriented Honda Odyssey starts at $39,215, with five trims focusing on providing essential features. The high-end model, at $51,345, showcases Honda’s commitment to luxury and comfort.
- Comfort: As a minivan, the Odyssey is designed for long family trips. It has spacious seating with plenty of legroom and comfortable seats.
- Space: Abundant storage space is available, with additional compartments and an expandable cargo area.
- Features: With rear-seat entertainment systems and multiple charging points, it’s family-friendly to its core.
Subaru Outback
Starting at a competitive $30,190, the Subaru Outback offers a choice of nine trim levels to cater to diverse driver needs. With a top-tier model priced at $44,090, it marries ruggedness with refinement for a thrilling driving experience.
- Comfort: The Outback offers plush seating with ample head and legroom. It rides smoothly, absorbing highway imperfections with ease.
- Space: Its wagon design means a spacious cargo area, which can be expanded by folding rear seats.
- Features: All-wheel drive, adaptive cruise control, and infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are highlights.
Toyota Sienna
Priced from $38,220, the Toyota Sienna is the perfect blend of style and function, available in 14 distinct trims. Its top variant, at $54,440, promises luxury without compromising utility.
- Comfort: Known for its spacious interiors, the Sienna ensures that all passengers, even those in the third row, travel in comfort.
- Space: The cargo area is generous and the third row can fold down for even more room.
- Features: The Sienna offers a rear-seat entertainment system, adaptive cruise control, and even a refrigerator in some models!
Chevrolet Suburban
Chevrolet’s behemoth, the Suburban, begins at $59,095, offering 11 unique trim levels that highlight American automotive excellence. The top-of-the-line, priced at $82,295, brings unrivaled space and luxury.
Chevrolet’s behemoth, the Chevy Suburban, begins at $59,095, offering 11 unique trim levels that highlight American automotive excellence. The top-of-the-line, priced at $82,295, brings unrivaled space and luxury.
- Comfort: This large SUV offers a smooth ride and plush seating.
- Space: If you’re carrying lots of luggage or equipment, the Suburban’s vast cargo space won’t disappoint.
- Features: Equipped with Chevy’s latest infotainment system, it also boasts multiple USB ports and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Ford Mustang GT Convertible
The iconic Ford Mustang Convertible starts at $34,665, delivering unrivaled American muscle in three trims. Its top variant, priced at $50,260, offers the timeless joy of open-top driving with modern comforts.
- Comfort: It might not be the roomiest, but for a couple, the GT Convertible offers a thrilling and comfortable ride.
- Space: Enough trunk space for a weekend getaway, especially if you pack light.
- Features: The thrill of open-top driving, SYNC infotainment, and selectable drive modes for varying terrains.
Volvo XC90
With a starting price of $57,195, the Volvo XC90 stands out in its class offering seven exquisite trim levels. Its pinnacle variant, at $71,095, exemplifies Scandinavian luxury and craftsmanship.
- Comfort: Volvo is synonymous with comfort. The XC90 provides a luxury experience with fine materials and top-notch seating.
- Space: It’s a large SUV, ensuring ample room for both passengers and cargo.
- Features: Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving, a Bowers & Wilkins sound system, and a heads-up display are notable.
Mazda CX-9
The Mazda CX-9, beginning at $40,125, is a testament to Mazda’s vision of affordable luxury across its five trims. Its elite model, priced at $49,835, epitomizes style and performance.
- Comfort: With its upscale interior and excellent ride quality, the CX-9 punches above its price point.
- Space: Three rows of seating and a generous cargo area make it great for families.
- Features: The infotainment system supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the vehicle features active safety tech.
Chrysler Pacifica
Chrysler’s Pacifica starts at an attractive $39,215, and with 10 trim levels, it guarantees a fit for every family. The premium model, priced at $62,390, offers opulence without breaking the bank.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Representing the pinnacle of luxury, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class starts at a majestic $115,650, spanning five glorious trims. Its most luxurious offering, at an astonishing $230,150, sets the gold standard for opulence in the automotive world.
- Comfort: As a luxury sedan, it offers opulent interiors and a silky-smooth ride.
- Space: The trunk is sizable, and rear-seat passengers are treated to a limo-like experience.
- Features: A top-of-the-line infotainment system, ambient lighting, massaging seats, and driver assist technologies.
Summary of the 10 Best Cars for Long Road Trips
| Model | Starting MSRP | Top MSRP | Number of Trim Levels |
| Subaru Outback | $30,190 | $44,090 | 9 |
| Toyota Sienna | $38,220 | $54,440 | 14 |
| Chrysler Pacifica | $39,215 | $62,390 | 10 |
| Honda Odyssey | $39,215 | $51,345 | 5 |
| Mazda CX-9 | $40,125 | $49,835 | 5 |
| Volvo XC90 | $57,195 | $71,095 | 7 |
| Chevrolet Suburban | $59,095 | $82,295 | 11 |
| Tesla Model S | $89,880 | $109,880 | 2 |
| Mercedes-Benz S-Class | $115,650 | $230,150 | 5 |
| Ford Mustang Convertible | $34,665 | $50,260 | 3 |
Wrapping It Up
The ideal car for a long road trip depends on your unique needs. Whether you’re seeking luxury, storage, family-friendly features, or the thrill of the open road, there’s a car on this list that promises to make your journey memorable. Safe travels!
AutoByPayment.com offers accurate estimates of used car loan payments based on self-selected credit score, current rebates, down payment, and trade equity or negative equity, without customers having to provide their personal identifying information such as email and phone.