Your Perfect Road Trip Starts Here
A good road trip starts with the right car, as it can make a journey feel effortless. But not every vehicle is cut out for hours on the road. Some cars can turn a fun adventure into a grueling test of endurance, with cramped seats and tech that’s more frustrating than helpful. So, as you prepare for your next road trip, it’s important to pick the right car. To help you with that, first, here are the ten best cars for cruising down the highway in style.
1. 2023 Toyota Highlander
With comfortable three-row seating for up to eight passengers, the 2023 Toyota Highlander is well-suited for family travel. Despite its size, the Highlander delivers impressive fuel economy at 36 mpg on the highway, making long drives easier on the wallet.
2. 2022 Subaru Outback
Equipped with standard all-wheel drive, the 2022 Subaru Outback is built to handle unpredictable weather and unpaved paths. Inside, the ride stays smooth and comfortable, with generous legroom to make drives easier for all passengers.
3. 2023 Honda CR-V
Long drives become more efficient in the 2023 Honda CR-V, thanks to its impressive 34 mpg highway fuel economy. That efficiency pairs well with a quiet, smooth ride, supported by an insulated cabin and refined suspension that reduces fatigue over time.
4. 2023 Tesla Model Y
Electric travel reaches new heights with the 2023 Tesla Model Y, as it offers an impressive 330-mile range that stretches the distance between charging stops. And when a recharge is needed, Tesla’s expansive Supercharger network ensures hassle-free access along major routes.
5. 2022 Ford F-150
When heavy hauling meets everyday versatility, the 2022 Ford F-150 stands out with its 14,000-pound towing capacity. Its onboard power system brings added convenience, letting you charge electronics directly through built-in outlets.
RL GNZLZ from Chile on Wikimedia
6. 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offers strong fuel economy when equipped with its diesel engine, which makes it suitable for long-distance travel. Built for durability, it also provides flexible cab and bed configurations to match specific needs.
RL GNZLZ from Chile on Wikimedia
7. 2023 Kia Telluride
The 2023 Kia Telluride seats up to eight across three rows, providing generous cabin space for long-distance travel. For drivers seeking premium features without a premium price, the Telluride stands out as a strong value choice.
8. 2023 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
In the 2023 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, every element is designed to make long-distance travel feel effortless. It starts with a fuel-efficient engine that stretches highway miles without frequent fuel stops. That efficiency goes well with safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
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9. 2022 Toyota Camry
Road trip plans often start with fuel range, and the 2022 Toyota Camry sets the tone with around 39 mpg on the highway. Paired with intuitive tech like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, this ride stays user-focused from start to finish.
10. 2023 Hyundai Kona
Squeeze into tight spots, then fly down the open road—the 2023 Hyundai Kona thrives at both. With 30 mpg on the highway, it keeps stops minimal and spirits high. And thanks to its compact size and budget-friendly price, the Kona proves that great road trips don’t need to come in large packages.
Now, let’s explore the ten worst cars that could turn your road trip into a series of unfortunate events.
1. 2023 Nissan Versa
If you're planning to stretch your legs, the 2023 Nissan Versa might not be your best road trip companion. Its tiny trunk barely fits weekend bags. Then there's the ride—it jolts you awake with every bump, thanks to its stiff suspension.
2. 2022 Ford Mustang
The Mustang's suspension delivers every bump straight to your spine. Fuel efficiency also plays the villain here, forcing more pit stops than planned and stretching your budget along with your patience. Passengers hoping for backseat comfort won’t find it, as the legroom is practically an afterthought.
3. 2022 Dodge Charger
At first glance, the 2022 Dodge Charger looks ready to eat miles for breakfast. But once the road trip stretches past the first tank of gas, reality hits hard, because its V8 engine guzzles like it’s always thirsty, and your wallet won’t find it charming.
4. 2023 Hyundai Elantra
The rear seats of the 2023 Hyundai Elantra are cramped, offering limited space for passengers. Its firm suspension makes the ride feel rough, especially over uneven roads. Additionally, the engine lacks sufficient power, which makes it hard to pass other vehicles or accelerate quickly on highways.
5. 2023 Audi Q7
For those considering the 2023 Audi Q7 for a road trip, be prepared for high repair and maintenance costs. The complex tech system is also cumbersome, often making it difficult to use. Moreover, with premium features comes a premium price, which may not justify this one’s road trip experience.
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6. 2022 Chevrolet Spark
This car struggles with stability at higher speeds, particularly on windy days, which makes for a tense drive on the highway. Inside, its tiny interior leaves little room to stretch out. And to top it off, the outdated tech system makes navigation and entertainment a hassle.
7. 2023 Fiat 500X
The 2023 Fiat 500X is far from ideal for road trips, as its tight interior space, with cramped seats and a small trunk, makes packing and comfort a struggle. Poor fuel efficiency adds to the inconvenience, while the outdated infotainment system increases the level of frustration.
8. 2023 Fiat 500L
With a fuel economy of only 28 mpg, this car is not the most efficient for extended journeys. The stiff suspension amplifies every bump, leading to a rough ride. Additionally, the infotainment system is slow and frustrating, adding to the discomfort on long drives.
2023 Fiat 500X Sport - Interior & Exterior In-depth Review by RevealCars
9. 2023 Mini Cooper Countryman
To start with, the sport-tuned suspension of the Mini Cooper Countryman delivers a stiff, bumpy ride that wears on passengers over time. And when it comes to performance, the engine lacks the strength needed for smooth highway merging or consistent long-distance driving.
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10. 2022 Honda HR-V
Hit the highway in the 2022 Honda HR-V, and the engine’s sluggishness becomes apparent almost immediately. On the inside, things don’t improve much, as the infotainment system is basic and misses key features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
