For those who frequently embark on long road journeys or travel extensively by car with friends and family, selecting the best car for long drives is essential and important. The right vehicle must combine robust power, ample space, and excellent fuel efficiency to ensure that your journeys are not only enjoyable but also economical. Most importantly, the best car for a long drive should be reliable and safe, offering peace of mind on every trip. Below is a curated list of vehicles by dailybharat team that are considered the best cars for long drives, spanning various categories to suit different preferences and needs.
1. Honda Jazz (2014-2020)
Price: ₹5.60 – ₹9.40 Lakh | Mileage: Up to 27.3 kmpl | Engine: Up to 1498 cc | BHP: 98.6
Opting for a hatchback may seem unconventional when searching for the best car for long drive, but the diesel-powered Honda Jazz is an exception. Despite its compact size, it offers a comprehensive feature set, a spacious cabin, and an engine that is both fuel-efficient and powerful. This makes it a standout candidate among the best cars for long drives.
However, the diesel engine can become a bit noisy under pressure. The Volkswagen Polo, a strong competitor, offers a refined engine, excellent transmission, and superb handling. Yet, the Polo’s rear seat comfort doesn't quite measure up to the Jazz. The BS6 update has limited the Polo to a 1.0-litre three-cylinder MPI engine, but the more robust 1.0-litre TSI variant is recommended for those looking for the best car for long drive performance.
2. Honda Civic
Price: ₹15 – ₹22.35 Lakh | Mileage: Up to 26.8 kmpl | Engine: Up to 1799 cc | BHP: 139.46
The Honda Civic is often hailed as the best car for long drives in the sedan category, offering superb handling and a comfortable cabin. It's designed to make every journey a pleasure, and its reputation as the most comfortable car in India for long trips is well-deserved. During road tests, the diesel engine easily maintained high speeds, dispelling any doubts about its power. While it might not cater to those seeking raw performance, its plush interior, excellent ride quality, and precise handling, especially on winding roads, make it a top choice for anyone searching for the best car for long drives.
3. Kia Carnival (2020-2023)
Price: ₹25.15 – ₹35.49 Lakh | Mileage: Up to 14.11 kmpl | Engine: Up to 2199 cc | BHP: 197.26
The Kia Carnival stands out as the best car for long drive experiences in the MUV category. This long car in India offers a near-luxury experience on the road, making it a favorite for extended journeys. Despite its premium price, the Carnival delivers a business-class experience that few other vehicles can match. Its spacious interior and advanced features make it the best car for long drives if you prioritize comfort. The Maruti Ertiga and Toyota Innova Crysta are also strong contenders, but they fall short in features and luxury compared to the Carnival. Among long cars in India, the Carnival is unrivaled for those who seek the best car for long drives with family or large groups.
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4. Ford Endeavour (2020-2022)
Price: ₹29.99 – ₹36.27 Lakh | Mileage: Up to 13.9 kmpl | Engine: Up to 1996 cc | BHP: 167.62
The Ford Endeavour is a prime example of the best car for long drives that also offers off-road capabilities. For those who need a vehicle that can handle both highway cruising and rough terrain, the Endeavour is an excellent choice. Despite the engine downsizing to meet BS6 norms, which has improved its fuel efficiency, the Endeavour remains a strong performer on long drives. Among long cars in India, it’s often considered the best car for long drive adventures, offering a sophisticated ride quality that surpasses even its closest rival, the Toyota Fortuner.
5. Skoda Rapid
Price: ₹6.99 – ₹13.49 Lakh | Mileage: Up to 21.72 kmpl | Engine: Up to 1598 cc | BHP: 108.62
For those seeking the best car for long drives in a more compact form, the Skoda Rapid is a top pick. After extensively driving this vehicle, I can confidently say it offers exceptional ride quality. The diesel engine combined with the DSG gearbox made it a joy on long stretches of road. Although the diesel variant has been discontinued with the arrival of BS6, the new 1.0-litre petrol TSI engine is expected to continue delivering the performance that made the Rapid a favorite. Among the best cars for long drives, the Rapid is a solid choice for those who value a balance of comfort and driving pleasure.
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Here's a table categorizing the vehicles into their respective types with their price ranges:
| Category | Model | Price Range (₹ Lakh) |
|---|---|---|
| SUVs | Mahindra Thar ROXX | 12.99 – 20.49 |
| Mahindra Thar | 11.35 – 17.60 | |
| Mahindra Scorpio | 13.62 – 17.42 | |
| Citroen Basalt | 7.99 – 13.83 | |
| Mahindra Bolero | 9.79 – 10.91 | |
| Tata Punch | 6.13 – 10.20 | |
| Hatchbacks | Maruti Swift | 6.49 – 9.60 |
| Maruti Baleno | 6.66 – 9.83 | |
| Maruti Wagon R | 5.54 – 7.33 | |
| Hyundai i20 | 7.04 – 11.21 | |
| Maruti Alto K10 | 3.99 – 5.96 | |
| Tata Tiago | 5.65 – 8.90 | |
| Sedans | Hyundai Verna | 11.00 – 17.42 |
| Maruti Dzire | 6.57 – 9.34 | |
| Honda City | 12.08 – 16.35 | |
| Hyundai Aura | 6.49 – 9.05 | |
| Volkswagen Virtus | 11.56 – 19.41 | |
| Honda Amaze | 7.20 – 9.96 | |
| MUVs | Toyota Innova Crysta | 19.99 – 26.30 |
| Maruti Ertiga | 8.69 – 13.03 | |
| Renault Triber | 6.00 – 8.97 | |
| Maruti XL6 | 11.61 – 14.77 | |
| Toyota Rumion | 10.44 – 13.73 | |
| Maruti Invicto | 25.21 – 28.92 | |
| Luxury Cars | Land Rover Defender | 97.00 Lakh – 2.85 Crore |
| Land Rover Range Rover | 2.36 – 2.60 Crore | |
| Jeep Wrangler | 67.65 – 71.65 | |
| Mercedes-Benz GLA | 51.75 – 58.15 | |
| BMW X7 | 1.27 – 1.30 Crore | |
| Volvo XC90 | 1.01 Crore |
