One can argue that road trips can get uncomfortable and inconvenient at times. But there is a good reason why movies and TV shows have always romanticised road trips. In their own fun way, they make us realise why the journey is more important than the destination. However, the fun quotient can’t be the only consideration when planning long distance travel. The safety, comfort and mileage of the car you choose can greatly influence your entire experience.
Looking for a new car to buy or rent for your next road trip? Allow us to take you on a virtual test drive of the best cars for long distance driving in India.
1. Maruti Suzuki Baleno
For all the roadtrip cars promising to be the best for long-distance driving, they must have comfortable seating, big storage space, fuel efficiency, safety features, and a decent infotainment system. The Baleno is one of the most fuel-efficient long-driving cars that has a mileage of 22.94 kmpl. The mileage combined with 37 litres of fuel tank capacity allows you to cover longer distances without worrying about having to make frequent stops at fuel stations.
Baleno has a spacious interior that comfortably seats 5 people. It also has 318 litres of boot space that allows you to carry your bags and essentials comfortably. Besides all this, the engine produces 113Nm@4400rpm torque that provides enough power to cover the challenging terrain conditions found in India.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno Specifications
- ARAI Mileage: 22.94 kmpl
- City Mileage: 19 kmpl
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Engine Displacement: 1197 cc
- Max Power: 88.50bhp@6000rpm
- Max Torque: 113Nm@4400rpm
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Transmission Type: Automatic
- Boot Space: 318 Litres
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 37 Litres
- Body Type: Hatchback
- Car Price: Rs. 6.66 – 9.83 Lakh
2. Maruti Suzuki Swift Dzire
Maruti Suzuki Swift Dzire is one of the most affordable sedans and long-driving cars in India. It makes a great road trip partner. Swift Dzire features a spacious interior and comfortable seating for 5, making long trips comfortable. It is well-known for its exceptional fuel economy of 22.61 kmpl, which reduces fuel expenses on long journeys.
Besides being comfortable and fuel-efficient, Dzire also guarantees a safe driving experience with its dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors. Even on bumpy roads, its suspension system offers a steady and smooth ride. A 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system further improves the driving experience.
Maruti Suzuki Swift Dzire Specifications
- ARAI Mileage: 22.61 kmpl
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Engine Displacement: 1197 cc
- Max Power: 88.50bhp@6000rpm
- Max Torque: 113Nm@4400rpm
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Transmission Type: Automatic
- Boot Space: 378 Litres
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 37 Litres
- Body Type: Sedan
- Car Price: Rs. 6.57 – 9.34 Lakh
3. Tata Nexon
The Tata Nexon offers a perfect mix of style, safety, and technology. Beyond its style and safety, this roadtrip car is one of the best long-distance drive companions you can have. Nexon’s fuel efficiency is remarkable, making it cost-effective for extended travel. You will also have to make fewer stops because of its 44-litres fuel tank capacity.
Nexon offers 209 litres of boot capacity, which is ample space for baggage and other necessities for travel. This allows you to pack everything for long-distance trips. It also guarantees a safe driving experience with its dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and electronic stability program (ESP).
Tata Nexon Specifications
- ARAI Mileage: 24.08 kmpl
- Fuel Type: Diesel/Engine
- Displacement: 1497 cc
- Max Power: 113.31bhp@3750rpm
- Max Torque: 260Nm@1500-2750rpm
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Transmission Type: Automatic
- Boot Space: 382 Litres
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 44 Litres
- Body Type: SUV
- Car Price: Rs. 8 – 15.50 Lakh
4. Hyundai Creta
Hyundai Creta is the ultimate trip companion that exudes great style and sophistication. It is one of the best road trip cars available in India that combines legendary performance and great looks with lavish comfort. This fuel-efficient car has a mileage of 19.1 kmpl that helps cover more distance with less fuel. Furthermore, a 50 litres fuel capacity tank eliminates the need to make frequent stops at fuel stations. Even at high speeds, its suspension system offers a steady and comfortable ride.
Hyundai Creta Specifications
- ARAI Mileage: 19.1 kmpl
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Engine Displacement: 1493 cc
- Max Power: 114bhp@4000rpm
- Max Torque: 250Nm@1500-2750rpm
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Transmission Type: Automatic
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 50 Litres
- Body Type: SUV
- Car Price: Rs. 11 – 20.30 Lakh
5. Toyota Innova Crysta
The Toyota Innova Crysta provides unmatched boldness and performance on long-distance trips. Its diesel engine delivers remarkable fuel economy, making it cost-effective for extended travel time. Its roomy and supportive seats ensure a comfortable long-distance trip for both the driver and the passengers.
With dual airbags and ABS with EBD, the car provides a safe driving experience. Even on unpaved roads, the suspension system provides a bump-free comfortable ride.
Toyota Innova Crysta Specifications
- City Mileage: 9 kmpl
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Engine Displacement: 2393 cc
- Max Power: 147.51bhp@3400rpm
- Max Torque: 343Nm@1400-2800rpm
- Seating Capacity: 7, 8
- Transmission Type: Manual
- Boot Space: 300 Litres
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 55 Litres
- Body Type: MUV
- Car Price: Rs. 19.99 – 26.55 Lakh
6. Honda City
Honda City is a smartly styled, fuel-efficient car with superior technological prowess. Its invigorating cockpit design exceeds expectations in terms of luxury and comfort. The rear seats offer ample cushioning and knee room, so as to not cause the slightest discomfort to those seated behind.
With 18.4 kmpl mileage, the Honda City proves to be an economical vehicle for long-distance travel. Its 506 litres of boot space provides sufficient space for all your baggage and essentials for days to come.
Honda City Specifications
- ARAI Mileage: 18.4 kmpl
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Engine Displacement: 1498 cc
- Max Power: 119.35bhp@6600rpm
- Max Torque: 145Nm@4300rpm
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Transmission Type: Automatic
- Boot Space: 506 Litres
- Body Type: Sedan
- Car Price: Rs. 11.82 – 16.35 Lakh
7. Toyota Fortuner
The all-new Toyota Fortuner is a rugged SUV that has the muscle to overpower any terrain or road in India. No matter how rough and long the road ahead appears to be, the new Fortuner keeps you in place and secure. With Antilock Braking System and Active Traction Control, you can overcome any obstacle with ease and feel in control.
The car has an Automatic Climate Control system and an Automatic Rear Cooler that adjusts the temperature depending on the temperature outside. The cabin of the car can accommodate up to 7 people and offers enough headroom and legroom, making it ideal for extended travel.
Toyota Fortuner Specifications
- City Mileage: 11 kmpl
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Engine Displacement: 2755 cc
- Max Power: 201.15bhp@3000-3420rpm
- Max Torque: 500Nm@1620-2820rpm
- Seating Capacity: 7
- Transmission Type: Automatic
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 80 Litres
- Body Type: SUV
- Car Price: Rs. 33.43 – 51.44 Lakh
8. Mahindra XUV700
The XUV700 exudes luxury and features technology that takes the driving experience to a whole new level. With its state-of-the-art features and dynamics, this formidable SUV is designed to make long-distance trips easier and comfortable for everyone involved.
With its trademarked Skyroof, you can enjoy breathtaking landscapes throughout. The XUV700 also comes with Driver Drowsiness Detection. It tracks the movement of the driver’s eyelids and promptly issues alerts if the driver’s eyes are shutting at the wheel.
Mahindra XUV700 Specifications
- ARAI Mileage: 16.57 kmpl
- Fuel Type: Diesel/Engine
- Displacement: 2198 cc
- Max Power: 182bhp@3500rpm
- Max Torque: 450Nm@1750-2800rpm
- Seating Capacity: 5, 6, 7
- Transmission Type: Automatic
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 60 Litres
- Body Type: SUV
- Car Price: Rs. 13.99 – 26.04 Lakh
9. Honda Amaze
Honda Amaze is tailored for magnificence and to make long-distance trips more comfortable and memorable. It features a roomy cabin with ample legroom that comfortably fits 5 people. Automatic Climate Control is another feature that adjusts the temperature inside during long drives.
The Honda Amaze comes with Cruise Control, which lets drivers establish and maintain a desired speed without having to continuously press on the pedal. This feature of Honda Amaze is especially helpful on long highway drives, as it lessens driver fatigue and promotes a more enjoyable driving experience.
Honda Amaze Specifications
- ARAI Mileage: 18.3 kmpl
- Fuel Type: Petrol/Engine
- Displacement: 1199 cc
- Max Power: 88.50bhp@6000rpm
- Max Torque: 110Nm@4800rpm
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Transmission Type: Automatic
- Boot Space: 420 Litres
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 35 Litres
- Body Type: Sedan
- Car Price: Rs. 7.20 – 9.96 Lakh
10. Hyundai i20
The new Hyundai i20 features a new grille, tail lamps, and resplendent DRLs that make it a sight to behold. Its features and dynamics, however, make it an excellent driving partner for long-distance trips. The Voice-activated intelligent electric sunroof allows you to witness the mesmerising landscape throughout the drive.
The i20’s 37-litre fuel tank capacity ensures that you don’t need to halt at fuel stations every now and then. Its 20 kmpl mileage adds more to it by covering extended distances. The i20’s remarkable fuel efficiency makes it cost-effective for lengthy travels.
Hyundai i20 Specifications
- ARAI Mileage: 20 kmpl
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Engine Displacement: 1197 cc
- Max Power: 87bhp@6000rpm
- Max Torque: 114.7Nm@4200rpm
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Transmission Type: Automatic
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 37 Litres
- Body Type: Hatchback
- Car Price: Rs. 7.04 – 11.21 Lakh
Summary
When going on a long trip, a car has numerous advantages over trains or even planes. It offers the freedom and flexibility to let you explore places on your own terms and schedule. It brings those locations within reach that are otherwise impossible to find by train or plane.
When choosing long-driving cars, you must consider safety, space, seating, and fuel efficiency. Fuel efficiency, for instance, makes travel more cost-effective by reducing stops and saving money. Sufficient boot space allows the space for the storage of all required gear and baggage. In a nutshell, all these factors have the power to influence your long-distance driving experience.
FAQ’s
Q. Which is the best car for long-distance driving?
Reliability, comfort, and fuel economy are some important factors that make a car best for long-distance driving. Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Tata Nexon, and Toyota Fortuner are some of the best cars for long-distance driving.
Q. Which car engine is best for a long drive?
Smaller engine cars often struggle during long drives. This can cause annoyance when you are unable to cover as much distance as you would like to. Bigger engines help you cover the distance effortlessly.
Q. What is the most comfortable car to travel long-distance?
Tata Nexon, Hyundai Creta, and Honda City are among the most comfortable cars for travelling long-distance.
Q. What is the most economical car for long-distance driving?
Maruti Suzuki Swift Dzire is one of the most economical cars for long-distance driving because it offers a mileage of 22.61 kmpl.
Q. Which SUV is best for a long journey?
Hyundai Creta is the best SUV for long journeys. It provides not only the utmost comfort but also an impressive mileage of 19.1 kmpl.
