When planning a long road trip, the right SUV can make all the difference. From comfort to fuel efficiency and the latest safety features, a long journey demands a vehicle that can handle hours on the road while offering the convenience and reliability needed for the adventure. With numerous options available, it’s important to choose an SUV that can offer a smooth ride, plenty of space, and modern technology.
Let’s explore some of the best SUVs for long journeys, and we’ll also highlight a specific model to avoid based on certain years.
1. Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander has been a popular choice among families and road trip enthusiasts for years. It’s known for its reliability, spacious interior, and advanced safety features. The Highlander offers a smooth ride, even on long highway drives, thanks to its comfortable seating and responsive handling.
Why Choose the Toyota Highlander for Long Journeys?
- Comfortable Interior: The Highlander offers three rows of seating, providing ample space for passengers. Plus, its plush seats and premium materials make it perfect for long trips.
- Fuel Efficiency: With a hybrid version available, the Toyota Highlander offers excellent fuel economy, which is especially important when traveling long distances.
- Safety Features: Toyota’s Safety Sense suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision warning, ensuring peace of mind during long drives.
2. Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is another standout when it comes to long-distance travel. This compact SUV offers a balanced combination of fuel efficiency, comfort, and cargo space. The CR-V is well-suited for those who prefer a smaller SUV but still need enough room for passengers and luggage.
Why Choose the Honda CR-V for Long Journeys?
- Spacious Cabin: The Honda CR-V has one of the most spacious interiors in its class, offering plenty of legroom for both front and rear passengers.
- Impressive Fuel Economy: With up to 34 mpg on the highway, the CR-V is perfect for long journeys without constantly needing to refuel.
- Driver Assistance Features: The CR-V comes with Honda Sensing, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation braking, and road departure mitigation.
3. Ford Explorer
If you're seeking a larger SUV with plenty of power, the Ford Explorer is a great option for long road trips. It offers a smooth, comfortable ride with powerful engine options, making it ideal for families who may need extra power for towing or carrying larger loads.
Why Choose the Ford Explorer for Long Journeys?
- Performance: The Ford Explorer comes with multiple engine choices, including a turbocharged four-cylinder and a V6, giving you the option for more horsepower if needed.
- Generous Cargo Space: This SUV offers ample cargo space, which is a huge benefit when packing for a long trip.
- Advanced Tech: The Explorer includes a large touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, keeping you connected and entertained during your journey.
4. Nissan Murano
The Nissan Murano is another great choice for long-distance driving. It is known for its refined design, quiet cabin, and smooth ride. However, not all years of the Murano are equal, and some have had reliability issues. Specifically, when considering a Nissan Murano for your trip, it's best to be aware of certain years to avoid. Nissan Murano years to avoid include 2015 and 2016 due to reports of transmission problems and potential reliability concerns. Stick to newer models for the best experience on long drives.
Why Choose the Nissan Murano for Long Journeys?
- Comfortable Ride: The Nissan Murano is known for its comfortable, supportive seats and a ride that smoothens out even the roughest of roads.
- Quiet Cabin: Its cabin is especially quiet, making it ideal for long drives where a peaceful environment is essential.
- Modern Technology: The Murano comes equipped with Nissan's intuitive infotainment system, offering features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available safety tech.
5. Jeep Grand Cherokee
For those who want a combination of ruggedness and comfort, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is an excellent choice. This SUV can handle both city streets and off-road terrain, which makes it perfect for adventurous road trips.
Why Choose the Jeep Grand Cherokee for Long Journeys?
- Off-Road Capabilities: If your journey includes rough roads or off-the-beaten-path adventures, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is the ideal option with its 4WD and off-road features.
- Luxury Interior: While rugged, the Grand Cherokee also offers a luxurious interior with high-end materials and a range of comfort features.
- Powerful Engines: The Grand Cherokee offers a variety of engine options, including a V8 for those who want more towing capability or power on long trips.
6. Chevrolet Traverse
For families looking for a spacious SUV with plenty of seating and storage, the Chevrolet Traverse stands out. It’s a great option for those who prioritize passenger space without sacrificing on-road comfort.
Why Choose the Chevrolet Traverse for Long Journeys?
- Family-Friendly Interior: The Traverse offers three rows of seating, providing enough space for up to eight passengers.
- Cargo Space: There’s plenty of cargo space for luggage, gear, and anything else you may need on a long journey.
- Smooth Ride: The Traverse offers a comfortable ride with an easy-to-drive character, making it an excellent choice for long highway drives.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best SUV for long journeys, comfort, reliability, and fuel efficiency are key factors to consider. The Toyota Highlander, Honda CR-V, Ford Explorer, and Nissan Murano (newer models) are all fantastic options for long road trips, offering a mix of comfort, space, and performance.
However, be sure to avoid certain Nissan Murano years to avoid, specifically from 2015 and 2016, as they had some reliability issues. Opting for a more recent model will ensure you get the best experience on your long-distance journey.
