Top Car Brands Perfect for Your Ultimate Road Trip Adventure

Embarking on a road trip is as much about the journey as it is the destination, and choosing the right vehicle can make all the difference. Whether you're winding through mountains, cruising along the coast, or zipping across vast plains, you want a car that offers reliability, comfort, and ample storage space. From fuel efficiency to advanced safety features, certain brands have consistently stood out in accommodating travel enthusiasts and families. Below, discover our curated list of top brands that excel in providing the ultimate road trip experience.

Illustration of car for road trips

Best brands of car for road trips in 2025

Subaru

Subaru is renowned as one of the best producers of cars for road trips, particularly highlighted by the 2022 Subaru Outback, which ranks as the number one small SUV for road trips due to its reliability score of 8.4, retained value score of 8.0, and a perfect safety score of 10.0. In 2023, Subaru saw a 14% increase in US car sales, with the Outback being the most popular model, selling 161,814 units, a 10% increase from the previous year. The Outback's fuel efficiency, with EPA ratings of up to 26/33 mpg city/highway, and its capability in both on-road and off-road conditions make it an ideal choice for adventurers. Additionally, the Outback's new Wilderness model offers enhanced off-road capabilities, further solidifying Subaru's position in the market. For more details on why the Subaru Outback tops as the best SUV for road trips and adventures, visit Torque News.

Honda

Honda is renowned for producing vehicles that are ideal for long road trips, thanks to their excellent safety features, unique storage solutions, and reliable performance. With models like the Honda Civic and HR-V, you can expect fuel efficiency, such as up to 56.6mpg for the Civic, and versatile seating options that cater to both individuals and families. The Honda Prologue, an all-electric SUV, offers a range of up to 296 miles on a single charge and fast charging capabilities, making it a top choice for those seeking an electric vehicle. Honda's commitment to fuel efficiency is evident, with hybrid cars using up to 30% less fuel per mile compared to typical petrol vehicles. These features ensure a comfortable and stress-free journey, whether you're commuting or on a family holiday. For more information on the best Honda models for long road trips, please visit Swansway Garages.

Toyota

Toyota stands as a leading manufacturer for road trip vehicles, boasting a global market share of 10.7% and selling over 11.2 million vehicles in 2023. Models like the Highlander Hybrid, with its 36 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, and the RAV4, which was the best-selling vehicle in 12 U.S. states in 2022, are highly regarded for their fuel efficiency and comfort. The Highlander offers ample cabin and cargo space, with 16 cu.ft. behind the third row and up to 48.4 cu.ft. when the third row is folded. Toyota's vehicles are also equipped with advanced safety features, such as Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, enhancing the road trip experience. Additionally, models like the Venza and 4Runner provide versatile options for different road trip needs. Check out great Toyota vehicles for road trips to explore more about their offerings.

Volvo

Volvo is renowned as one of the best producers of cars for road trips, particularly with models like the XC60 T8 ER, which offers excellent fuel efficiency and comfort. On a 5,000-mile road trip, the XC60 T8 ER achieved an average of 25-26 mpg on long highway drives, with variations from 21 to 31 mpg depending on conditions. The car's hybrid modes, such as "Hybrid Hold" and "Hybrid Charge," optimize battery use and fuel efficiency. Additionally, features like Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and one-pedal driving enhance the driving experience and reduce brake wear. Volvo's commitment to innovative production concepts, as seen in their Uddevalla plant, further underscores their focus on quality and efficiency. For more detailed information on Volvo XC60 T8 ER and other innovative features, visit their official support page.

Ford

Ford is renowned as one of the best producers of vehicles for road trips, offering a range of models that excel in comfort, fuel efficiency, and performance. For instance, the Ford F-150 with the 3.5 ecoboost engine can achieve up to 20 mpg on return trips without wind, and the Ford Maverick Hybrid impressively averages 47 MPG over nearly 1,900 miles of travel. The Ford Raptor, with its smooth ride and lane keep assist, reduces driver fatigue and offers a range of 540 to 600 miles between full fuel ups. Additionally, the 2024 Ford Ranger Lariat 4x4 has demonstrated excellent fuel economy, achieving 25.0 mpg over a 14-hour drive with significant cargo load. These features make Ford vehicles highly suitable for long road trips. For more information, visit Ford's official website.

Jeep

Jeep is renowned as one of the best producers of vehicles for road trips, particularly due to its strong presence in the North American market, where it holds a market share of approximately 12.3% in the SUV segment as of 2024. The brand's popular models, such as the Grand Cherokee and Wrangler, recorded significant sales of 212,701 and 155,491 units, respectively, in 2023. Jeep's revenue in North America from SUV sales was around $12 billion in 2023, with projections to maintain a strong market share and revenue in the coming years. The brand's off-road vehicle segment market share stands at about 29.5% in 2024, highlighting its dominance in rugged terrain vehicles. Jeep's global revenue for passenger cars is estimated to reach $50 billion in 2024, with unit sales projected to hit 1,015,000 vehicles by 2028. For more detailed insights and statistics, visit the Jeep statistics page.

Chevrolet

Chevrolet is renowned as one of the best producers of cars for road trips, offering a diverse range of vehicles that cater to various needs. With models like the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, known for their spacious interiors and robust performance, Chevrolet ensures comfort and reliability on long journeys. The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette, a mid-engine sports car, and the Chevrolet Blazer EV, with its advanced charging infrastructure, further enhance the road trip experience. Chevrolet's vehicles often feature advanced technologies, such as OnStar services, which provide real-time navigation, entertainment, and emergency assistance, making road trips more enjoyable and safe. For instance, the OnStar system allows passengers to connect up to seven devices via Wi-Fi, stream content, and stay informed about weather and news. Explore Chevrolet's diverse range of vehicles to find the perfect model for your next adventure.

Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz stands as a premier choice for road trips, boasting a robust global sales performance with 2,491,600 vehicles sold in 2023, marking a 1.5% increase despite supply-chain constraints. The brand's focus on desirable cars and the electrification of its fleet has been pivotal, with fully electric passenger car sales rising by 73% in 2023, accounting for 11% of overall sales. China remains a significant market, contributing substantially to the brand's revenue. The GLC is the top-selling model worldwide, and the brand has seen strong growth in electrified vehicles, including a 124% increase in BEV deliveries in 2022. Mercedes-Benz's commitment to quality and innovation, such as the upcoming electric G-Class and new E-Class, continues to drive customer satisfaction. For more information, visit their official website.

Audi

Audi is renowned for producing cars that excel in road trips, combining refinement, efficiency, and powerful performance. For instance, the 2024 Audi RS 7 Performance, with its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 621 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque, can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds and achieve a quarter-mile time of 11.9 seconds at 118 mph. Audi's commitment to innovation is evident in their financial performance, such as in 2010 when they set new records for revenue and operating profit, delivering over 1.1 million vehicles globally. The brand's focus on comfort and technology, like the optimized chassis setup in the Audi RS 3, ensures a smooth and enjoyable driving experience on long journeys. With a winning ratio of 76.9% in Le Mans events, Audi's engineering prowess translates to reliable and high-performance vehicles for any road trip.

Kia

Kia is renowned as one of the best producers of cars for road trips, offering a diverse range of vehicles that cater to various needs. The Kia Forte stands out for its impressive fuel efficiency, achieving 41 miles per gallon on the highway, making it a practical choice for long journeys. For families, the Kia Carnival MPV is ideal with its best-in-class cargo and passenger space, accommodating up to eight passengers. The Kia Sportage is versatile, offering off-road capability and a hybrid option, making it suitable for both adventure and eco-friendly travel. Additionally, models like the Kia Niro EV provide a range of up to 253 miles, suitable for shorter to medium-length road trips. For more details about the top Kia vehicles perfect for a road trip, visit this comprehensive guide.