Road trips are the best way to explore India’s beauty, from the mountains of Himachal Pradesh to the beaches of Goa. But to have a smooth and enjoyable journey, you need the right car. The perfect road trip car should be comfortable, fuel-efficient, safe, and reliable.
In this guide, we will explore the best cars for long road trips in India, covering SUVs, sedans, and hatchbacks that offer the best comfort and performance.
What Makes a Car Great for Road Trips?
Before choosing a car, let’s look at some important factors that make a vehicle suitable for long-distance travel.
1. Comfort and Space
- Spacious seating with enough legroom and headroom.
- Adjustable seats with lumbar support.
- Climate control for different weather conditions.
- Good infotainment system for entertainment on the go.
2. Fuel Efficiency
- Long trips mean long drives, so a fuel-efficient car will save money and reduce refueling stops.
3. Safety Features
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).
- Airbags for driver and passengers.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) for better handling.
- Rear parking sensors and cameras for easy reversing.
- A strong build for maximum protection.
4. Performance and Reliability
- Smooth and refined engine for effortless driving.
- A good suspension system to handle rough roads.
- Reliable brakes and steering response for better control.
5. Luggage Space
- Enough boot space to carry all travel essentials.
- Foldable rear seats for extra storage.
Now, let’s explore the best cars for long road trips in India based on these features.
Best SUVs for Long Road Trips in India
SUVs are the best choice for road trips because of their spacious interiors, powerful engines, and ability to handle rough terrains.
1. Mahindra XUV700
The Mahindra XUV700 is one of the best road trip SUVs with luxurious features and great performance.
Why It’s Ideal for Road Trips:
- Spacious cabin with premium leather seats.
- Advanced ADAS (driver assistance system) for safety.
- Powerful petrol and diesel engine options.
- Large panoramic sunroof for a scenic experience.
- 5-star NCAP safety rating.
2. Tata Safari
The Tata Safari is comfortable, reliable, and built for Indian roads.
Key Features:
- 6 and 7-seater options for big families.
- Large boot space for luggage.
- High ground clearance to tackle bad roads.
- Excellent suspension for a smooth ride.
3. Hyundai Alcazar
The Hyundai Alcazar is a feature-loaded SUV that ensures a smooth journey.
Why Choose It?
- Comfortable captain seats for long drives.
- 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
- Fuel-efficient engine options.
- Large boot space for travel essentials.
4. Toyota Fortuner
The Toyota Fortuner is known for its rugged build and powerful performance.
Best Features:
- Diesel engine for long-distance travel.
- High ground clearance for all terrains.
- 7-seater option for family trips.
- Reliable and durable build quality.
Best Sedans for Long Road Trips in India
Sedans provide a smooth and comfortable ride with great fuel efficiency.
5. Honda City
The Honda City is a perfect balance of comfort, efficiency, and performance.
Why Choose It?
- Spacious and premium interiors.
- Fuel-efficient petrol engine.
- Great audio system for long drives.
- Safety features like ABS and multiple airbags.
6. Skoda Slavia
The Skoda Slavia is a premium midsize sedan with a powerful engine.
Top Features:
- 1.5L TSI engine for effortless highway cruising.
- Large touchscreen infotainment system.
- Ventilated seats for extra comfort.
- Premium build quality.
7. Hyundai Verna
The Hyundai Verna offers style, performance, and comfort in one package.
What Makes It Special?
- Stylish LED headlamps.
- Reliable petrol and diesel engines.
- Digital cockpit with modern tech.
- Spacious rear seat for extra comfort.
Best Hatchbacks for Long Road Trips in India
Hatchbacks are a great choice for budget-friendly and fuel-efficient road trips.
8. Maruti Suzuki Baleno
The Baleno is one of the most fuel-efficient hatchbacks.
Why It’s Great for Road Trips:
- Comfortable seats with ample cabin space.
- SmartPlay infotainment system.
- Petrol and CNG engine options.
- Smooth ride quality on highways.
9. Tata Altroz
The Tata Altroz is a premium hatchback with a strong safety rating.
Best Features:
- 5-star Global NCAP safety rating.
- Excellent mileage and performance.
- Comfortable seats for long journeys.
- Modern touchscreen infotainment system.
10. Hyundai i20
The Hyundai i20 is a well-balanced hatchback with comfort and performance.
Why It’s a Good Choice?
- Sporty design with sunroof option.
- Premium sound system for music lovers.
- Reliable engine for highway driving.
- Decent boot space for a hatchback.
Which Car Should You Choose?
Your choice of car depends on your budget, travel needs, and preference.
- If you need a spacious and powerful car, go for an SUV like the Mahindra XUV700 or Tata Safari.
- If you want a fuel-efficient and comfortable ride, a sedan like the Honda City or Skoda Slavia is a great option.
- If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, a hatchback like the Maruti Baleno or Hyundai i20 is ideal.
No matter which car you choose, always check for safety features, comfort, and fuel efficiency. A well-chosen car will make your road trip more enjoyable and hassle-free.
Now that you have the perfect car list, it’s time to hit the road and explore India with a smooth and comfortable journey!
