The Best SUVs for Road Trips – Comfort and Performance Guide

There are few ways to travel that are better than embarking on a road trip: freedom, adventure and memories that last a lifetime. From the scenic highways to national parks or long stretches of open road, having the proper vehicle makes all the difference. For these reasons, SUVs are one of the best vehicles to take on a road trip with their spacious interiors, smart technology, powerful performance, and enhanced safety features.

So many SUVs to choose from, but which are the ones you want for long-distance travel? Analysing comfort, performance, fuel efficiency, storage space and road-trip-friendly will help you find the best SUVs for accurately pacing the miles.

What to Look for in a Road Trip SUV

Before we get into the list of the best SUVs for long drives, it’s worth knowing the features that make an SUV great for long-distance travel.

A. Comfortable Seating and Loads of Room

• The well-cushioned seats are ergonomic and don’t tire you out on long bills.
• The adjustable lumbar support can help alleviate back pain.
• There is plenty of leg room and head room in all of them.
• There are also ventilated and heated seats to keep things tolerable in extreme temperatures.
• Multiple configurations are available thanks to second and third-row seating flexibility.

B. Chewing Gum Smooth Ride & Rock Solid Performance

• A strong engine aids in the effortless handling of highways and mountainous terrain.
• Use smooth suspension systems for better ride quality.
• If you encounter different terrains, AWD or 4WD is perfect.
• The cabin is quiet with noise insulation that tames road noise for long drives.

C. Fuel Efficiency & Range

• Hybrid or fuel economy engines keep fuel stops to a minimum.
• Bigger fuel tanks mean long-distance travel without the need to stop all the time to fill up.
• Long-range electric SUVs can be a good green option.

D. Cargo Space & Storage

• Adjustable rear seats create more room to carry all your luggage.
• Additional hidden storage compartments keep small items organized.
• Roof racks provide supplementary storage for bikes, kayaks, or other equipment.

E. Technology and advanced connectivity

• Apple CarPlay & Android Auto ensure that drivers stay connected to navigation and entertainment.
• Passengers can stay online with a Wi-Fi hotspot.
• Several USB ports and wireless charging keep devices energized.
• High-quality sound systems take the drive experience to the next level.

F. Safety and Driver-assistance Features

• Adaptive cruise control cuts down on long-distance driving fatigue.
• Safety features include blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist.
• Collision prevention systems provide an additional level of safety.
• The cameras aid parking and where you could navigate in a limited area.

Top Reviewed SUVs for Road Trips

Now that we know some of the critical features, here are our top picks for best road trip SUVs in their respective segments.

1. Toyota Highlander – Best Family Road Trip Car

✅ Why It’s Great:

• Seating configuration for 8 across 3 rows.
• Also offers hybrid option at 36 MPG.
• A suite of safety technology called Toyota Safety Sense.
• Cargo room: 84.3 cubic feet with the seats folded.

🔹 Best For: Families who need comfort, safety & fuel economy.

2. Honda CR-V — Best Compact SUV for Small Families

✅ Why It’s Great:

• Powertrain: The gasoline is the 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine with 4 cylinders, 2.0-liter inline-4 hybrid with a rechargeable battery pack Fuel economy: Up to 40 MPG.
• Somewhat unhappy with our ride quality with supportive seats.
• Very familiar infotainment system.
• Cargo volume: 76.5 cubic feet with rear seats down.

🔹 Perfect For: A small family or couple who desires a compact SUV that doesn’t compromise comfort

3 . Ford Explorer – Best for Adventure & Towing

✅ Why It’s Great:

• Forceful 2.3L EcoBoost engine gets highway cruising.
• All-wheel drive (AWD) available.)
• Max towing capacity of 5,600 lbs for boat or trailers.
• Roomy interior that feels luxurious in upgraded versions.

🔹 Best For: Adventurers who want a mix of capability, towing prowess, and comfort.

4. Subaru Outback — Best Off-Road Road Trip

✅ Why It’s Great:

• Standard AWD for offroad capability.
• 26-33 MPG — excellent fuel efficiency and good for long distances
• Durable construction with high ground clearance.
• Considerable seating with premium enclosures included.

🔹 Best For: Explorers of national parks, camping and off-roaders.

5. Chevrolet Tahoe — The Best for Families

✅ Why It’s Great:

• Massive inside room for 9 passengers.
• Strong V8 engine delivers smooth high-speed highway driving
• Magnetic Ride Control for a plush ride.
• 10.2-inch touch infotainment system.

🔹 Best For: Groups or families who want ultimate space and luxury

6. Tesla Model X: Best Electric SUV for Long-Distance Driving

✅ Why It’s Great:

• Up to 348 miles per charge.
• Access to Tesla’s Supercharger network.
• Crazy futuristic autopilot features.
• Seating for up to 7 adults.

🔹 Best For: Eco-minded road trippers seeking an all-electric road experience.

More SUV Comparisons: Which Is Best for You?

Conclusion

Selecting the right SUV when you’re hitting the road can impact your comfort, efficiency, and safety on the road. From a compact, fuel-sipping model to a long-haul adventure-ready SUV to a full-on electric, there’s also an SUV to match each type of traveler.