Top 5 Best Long Distance Travel Cars In 2025
Long-distance driving is much more than getting from Point A to Point B. You have to actually enjoy the journey without arriving stiff, tired, or frustrated. Suppose you’re searching for the best long distance travel cars. In that case, you’re likely looking for a vehicle that offers a soothing ride, ergonomic seating, intuitive tech, and solid fuel efficiency. And while many cars claim to be road-trip ready, only a few truly deliver the full package.
We reviewed cars among the latest top-ranked vehicles from the U.S. News and World Report to compare the most comfortable and capable models in 2025. Whether you’re headed cross-country or simply looking to ease your highway commute, one of these five vehicles could be the right fit, but by the end, we’ll point you to the best choice for true long-haul comfort.
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2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV — Quiet Confidence with a Plug
Starting MSRP: $54,400
Score: 8.9/10
The CX-70 PHEV is Mazda’s latest plug-in hybrid SUV designed for drivers who value luxury without the European badge. It behaves like a classic hybrid on long highways but can go fully electric for up to 26 miles in the city, a handy perk for eco-conscious travelers. Inside, it feels premium: leather upholstery, spacious rows, and a cabin designed to stay quiet and composed even at higher speeds. For long-distance drivers, adaptive cruise control and multiple USB ports take the stress out of long hours behind the wheel. The only downside? Its higher starting price.
Comfort Verdict: Refined, well-equipped, and a great option if you value style and plug-in capability.
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2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid — Everyday Practical Meets Road-Trip Ready
Starting MSRP: $34,650
Score: 9.0/10
The Honda CR-V Hybrid offers one of the most balanced rides in its class. It delivers great fuel economy and a comfortable, stain-resistant cabin, a plus for families or snack-happy passengers. The rear seats recline, which isn’t common in compact SUVs, and it’s loaded with road-trip-friendly tech like adaptive cruise and Wi-Fi hotspot.
You may notice more transmission noise at higher speeds, but for the price, it punches well above its weight.
Comfort Verdict: An excellent balance of efficiency, comfort, and value, ideal for practical-minded long-distance drivers.
3. 2025 Chevrolet Suburban — Big, Bold, and Built for the Open Road
Starting MSRP: $62,000
Score: 9.0/10
Few vehicles scream “American road trip” like the Chevy Suburban. Recently refreshed, it offers an enormous cabin, up to nine seats, and a feature-rich interior with a 7-inch touchscreen and surround-view cameras. There’s ample legroom in all three rows, which is rare.
Its size is both its strength and its weakness. It’s incredibly comfortable once you’re on the highway, but maneuvering through cities or parking can be challenging.
Comfort Verdict: This is the go-to if space is your top priority. It is best suited for large families or group travel.
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2025 Kia Carnival — The Underdog Champion of Road Comfort
Starting MSRP: $36,800
Score: 8.7/10
Minivans might not be the most glamorous choice, but when it comes to long-distance comfort, few can compete with the 2025 Kia Carnival. With three adult-friendly rows, generous cargo space, and optional second-row lounge seats, the Carnival is a sleeper hit for travelers who prioritize space and serenity.
Update infotainment and thoughtful safety features like blind-spot monitoring and lane-keep assist round out the road-trip package. Easy-to-clean materials and quiet cabin insulation are great for family travelers and solo drivers.
Comfort Verdict: If comfort, space, and convenience are your non-negotiables, the Carnival should be on your shortlist.
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2025 Honda Civic — Budget-Friendly and Surprisingly Capable
Starting MSRP: $24,250
Score: 9.2/10
Don’t let its size fool you, the Honda Civic offers more comfort than many larger cars. With excellent fuel efficiency, well-bolstered front seats, and a clean, tech-friendly cabin, the Civic is built for drivers who don’t need to haul a full crew but still want a pleasant ride across state lines.
Road noise can creep in at higher speeds, but the Civic makes up for it with top-tier standard features like adaptive cruise control and traffic-sign recognition, all at the lowest MSRP on this list.
Comfort Verdict: The smart pick for solo travelers or couples who want great value without sacrificing long-haul quality.
So, What’s the Best Long Distance Travel Car?
Each vehicle is great in different ways: the CR-V for balance, the Suburban for space, the Carnival for all-around comfort, the Civic for value, and the CX-70 for quiet, hybrid capability. But if we had to choose the one vehicle that delivers the best comfort, tech, practicality, and road-trip readiness, our pick would be the 2025 Kia Carnival.
No other model on this list combines multi-row space, road-trip features, and pure ride comfort like the Carnival. It’s the ideal choice for long-distance travel with a competitive price, modern cabin design, optional lounge seats, and an easy highway driving experience.
What to Look for in the Best Long Distance Travel Cars
If you’re still weighing your options, here are the key features that matter most for comfort over many miles:
Supportive seating with lumbar support and recline options
Smooth ride quality with solid suspension and quiet cabin
Driver-assist tech like adaptive cruise and lane-centering
Spacious layout for passengers and cargo
Infotainment & USB access to stay connected on the go
Final Thoughts
Finding the best comfortable car for long-distance driving involves identifying what matters most to you. Are you looking for plug-in efficiency, family-sized seating, or sleek affordability? Whichever it is, there’s a standout option waiting, and if comfort is king for you, then the Kia Carnival reigns.
Read the original ranking here.
