If you are planning the ultimate cross-country adventure, you have come to the right place. Saddle up and get ready for an open-road adventure in style, for today we delve into the top picks for vehicles that will make your journey a story to be told.
In this guide, we handpicked a lineup of the best road trip companions, those which share the perfect balance of comfort, performance, and reliability. From the luxurious SUV to the rugged off-roader, there is something for every taste and preference. But before getting into the nitty-gritty of each ride, let’s highlight what makes these vehicles stand out and why they earned a spot on our list.
Why Do These Cars Stand Out for Road Tripping?
For starters, they are all equipped to take long-distance driving in stride. From winding mountain roads to long stretches of highway, the cars on this list will take you on a smooth ride to your destination, feeling refreshed and ready for adventure.
And that is not all. From fuel-efficient engines to spacious interiors, to leading-edge technology, each car offers something unique. And with towing capacities, cargo space, and horsepower to spare, they are more than capable of fitting all your gear and travel needs.
So if you are ready to hit the road and embark on the journey of a lifetime, then join us as we dive into the 11 best vehicles for your cross-country road trip of 2024. From coast to coast, and everywhere in between, these rides are sure to make your next adventure one to remember.
1. Mercedes Benz GLC (Starting From $47,450)
The Mercedes Benz GLC combines luxury and power, making it one of the best choices for comfort on your cross-country road trip. Its smooth ride and up-to-date features ensure that one can continue their journey without any problem, both on highways and winding roads. Hence, it stands out as one of the best long-distance travel vehicles for cross-trips. Whether cruising the coastal highway or stalking the countryside, the GLC offers a refined drive that is hard to match.
Key Features:
- Fuel Economy: Up to 26 city / 33 highway
- Engine: 2.0 L 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 255 hp
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic
- Pulling Power: 3,500 to 5,291 lbs
2. Chevrolet Suburban (Starting From $59,200)
The Chevrolet Suburban is your go-to for a cross-country road trip. This beast can haul eight people comfortably and tow up to 7,800 pounds, making it one of the best vehicles for cross-country road trips. With a vast cargo volume of 121 cubic feet, it’s perfect for all your gear. On-road, the Suburban is comfortable yet capable, with the 3.0-liter turbodiesel engine offering 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. Opt for the 5.3-litre or 6.2-litre V8s for more grunt.
Key Features:
- Fuel Economy: Up to 21 city / 27 highway
- Engine: 3.0 L 6-cylinder diesel, 5.3 L V8, 6.2 L V8
- Horsepower: 277 to 420 hp
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Towing capacity: 7,400 to 7,800 lbs
3. Ford Mustang Mach-E (Starting From $39,995)
The Ford Mustang Mach-E is perfect for a cross-country road trip, even as an electric vehicle. An extended battery with a range of up to 312 miles means it is built for long hauls. It drives quietly, but you can add “exhaust” noise via the audio system. The Mach-E has 29.7 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 59.7 cubic feet with the rear seats down, perfect for all your gear.
With the Blue Oval Charge Network’s 106,500 stations, charging is a breeze, and the Mach-E can add 59 miles in just 10 minutes at a DC Fast Charging station. My Trip function on the FordPass app lets you map out charging stops, making it one of the best vehicles for a cross-country road trip.
Key Features:
- Fuel Economy: Up to 111 city / 100 highway
- Range: 250 to 320 mi battery-only
- Fastest charging: About 195 miles in 36 minutes (80% charged)
- Engine: Electric
- Horsepower: 264 to 480 hp
4. Hyundai Santa Cruz (Starting From $26,900)
The Hyundai Santa Cruz redefines the crossover/pickup hybrid as one of the top choices for a cross-country road trip. The bed is small but functional, with room to carry over 1,000 pounds. Towing capacity runs from 3,500 pounds to 5,000 pounds, so it can handle personal watercraft or a small travel trailer, making it one of the best vehicles for cross-country road trips. Fuel economy comes in at 27 mpg on the highway and 19 mpg city in AWD, and the Santa Cruz has accessories like racks for rooftop tents, bikes, and kayaks to enhance its versatility.
Key Features:
- MPG: Up to 22 city / 26 highway
- Engine: 2.5 L 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 191 to 281 hp
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Towing capacity: 3,500 to 5,000 lbs
5. Kia Telluride (Starting From $36,190)
The Kia Telluride is a rare vehicle that is both exceptional and underpriced. It will take eight passengers in civilized travel while putting the hurt on similar models like the Chevrolet Suburban and Lincoln Navigator. Its potent 291-hp V6 provides ultra-smooth performance. Its interior is stylishly appointed, with first-rate seating and top-rate tech, including a 12.1-inch touchscreen, USB ports for each passenger, and the innovative Kia Connect app. For the money, it’s among the best on offer as a cross-country road tripper.
Key Features:
- Fuel Economy: Up to 22 city / 26 highway
- Engine: 2.5 L 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 191 to 281 hp
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Towing capacity: 3,500 to 5,000 lbs
6. BMW XI (Starting From $40,500)
The BMW X1 brings together legendary driving dynamics and leading-edge technology, making it one of the best choices for a cross-country road trip. With up to 1,550 litres of cargo space, the rear seats down, and 505 litres when carrying four passengers, it makes room for all your gear. This SUV will give you the smooth, comfortable ride needed for one of the best vehicles for cross-country road trips, all in a small package.
Key Features:
- Fuel Economy: Up to 25 city / 34 highway
- Engine: 2.0 L 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 241 to 312 hp
- Transmission: 7-speed automatic
- Dimensions: 177″ L x 73″ W x 65″ H
7. Subaru BRZ (Starting From $30,195)
The Subaru BRZ is a modern throwback to the classic British and Italian sports cars of the ’60s and ’70s, designed to experience the joy of driving. Recently redesigned, the BRZ marries the Subaru drivetrain to Toyota chassis expertise. It features a 228-hp boxer four-cylinder engine, a Torsen limited-slip differential, and Subaru Starlink Multimedia Navigation with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
With a starting price of less than $34,000, the Limited trim adds such luxury touches as Leather and Ultrasuede trim, 18-inch alloy wheels, and heated seats. With a new TS trim featuring an STI-tuned suspension and Brembo brakes, the BRZ is among the best choices for a spirited cross-country road trip.
Key Features:
- Fuel Economy: Up to 21 city / 30 highway
- Engine: 2.4 L 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 228 hp
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic, 6-speed manual
- Dimensions: 168″ L x 70″ W x 52″ H
8. Volvo V90 (Starting From $59,800)
The Volvo V90 Cross Country has matured into one of the classiest station wagons sold in the U.S. today. With a sophisticated 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, turbocharged, supercharged, and a mild-hybrid setup, it manages up to 29 mpg on the highway and provides 69 cubic feet of cargo space. Inside, it shines with sumptuous Blond upholstery, complemented with Linear Walnut accents. Its infotainment system is in line for an update, but it still supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, albeit via a plug-in. It offers almost as much towing capacity as a midsize SUV, making the V90 Cross Country a quality choice for a refined cross-country road trip.
Key Features:
- Fuel Economy: 22 City / 29 Highway
- Engine: 2.0 L 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 295 hp
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Towing capacity: 3,500 lbs
9. Ram 1500 (Starting From $40,275)
The 2025 Ram 1500 is the best choice for a road trip tow vehicle if you plan on towing a camper or boat. Properly equipped, it can tow up to 11,580 pounds. You can configure it in various bed, cab, and powertrain combinations to suit your needs. A spacious, high-quality interior with many standard safety features, such as stop-and-go adaptive cruise control and rear cross-traffic alert, is available in all body styles. The 2025 model includes an updated infotainment system with three screen sizes, three sound systems, and various tech options, making it one of the best road trip-friendly cars.
Key Features:
- Fuel Economy: Up to 20 city / 26 highway
- Engine: 3.0 L 6-cylinder, 3.6 L V6
- Horsepower: 305 to 540 hp
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Towing capacity: 6,450 to 8,380 lbs
10. Land Rover Defender (Starting From $56,400)
The Land Rover Defender is an off-road legend for adventure enthusiasts. Its robust build and advanced terrain response system take on rocky trails and muddy paths without a hitch. Whether you’re mountain climbing or a deep forest navigator, the Defender ensures a comfortable ride and lots of excitement. Famous for its all-terrain abilities, it’s one of the best cross-country travel cars, which is why we rate it for those wild U.S. landscapes.
Key Features:
- MPG: Up to 18 city / 23 highway
- Engine: 2.0 L 4-cylinder, 3.0 L 6-cylinder, 5.0 L V8
- Horsepower: 296 to 518 hp
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Towing capacity: 7,716 to 8,201 lbs
11. Porsche Cayenne (Starting From $79,200)
The refreshed Porsche Cayenne seamlessly mashes up luxury and performance, making it a perfect choice for those yearning for a sporty drive in a versatile crossover. This performance luxury SUV drives like a sports car while efficiently handling any cargo load. Opt for the coupe body style if your rear passengers are okay with giving up a bit of headspace for those sleek, stylish looks. With its best-of-the-best interior and cutting-edge tech, the Cayenne ensures every road trip is thrilling and comfortable.
Key Features:
- Fuel Economy: Up to 17 city / 23 highway
- Engine: 3.0 L V6, 4.0 L V8
- Horsepower: 348 to 468 hp
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Towing capacity: 7,700 lbs
In a nutshell, many stellar options are available when choosing the comfort vehicle for a cross-country road trip in 2024. Whether you’re a fan of luxury, power, versatility, or off-road capability, there’s a perfect match for every kind of traveller with their requirements and tastes. Whether the Mercedes Benz GLC, the Chevrolet Suburban, the Ford Mustang Mach-E, or the Land Rover Defender, every vehicle has unique features and advantages that fit perfectly in several lifestyles and travel styles.
Families on a cross-country drive would be best served by the Kia Telluride, which puts all the others to shame with its comfort, spaciousness, and technology right at the top. Whatever vehicle you use, your journey will be exciting and comfortable, creating lifetime memories.
