Best Cars for Long Drives in India: Expert Choice

Looking for an all round option for long drives, which is budget-friendly yet premium, with high carrying capacity yet powerful and very safe yet efficient? Fortunately, you are not limited with only a handful of options, but many models ready to take you on the long drives.

Currently cars like Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara and Mahindra XUV700 are the ones considered best cars for long drives in India. Their popularity is backed by strong sales. Creta alone crossed 2 lakh units in 2025, averaging around 550 units daily. Grand Vitara recorded over 1.23 lakh units in FY2025 and XUV700’s strong demand is due to its widespread acceptance for highway journeys.

This blog takes you through the 10 best long drive cars in India with proper reason as to why they’re considered better than others.

Top 10 Long Drive Cars in India: Quick Comparison

Sl No	Model Name	Ex-showroom Price	Why Best for Long Trips
1	Toyota Innova Hycross	Rs. 18.70 - 31.84 Lakh	Exceptional ride comfort with hybrid efficiency (23+ kmpl) and lounge-like Ottoman seats for fatigue-free journeys
2	Mahindra XUV700	Rs. 14.49 - 25.14 Lakh	Powerful diesel engine and Level 2 ADAS ensure effortless cruising and reduced driver fatigue
3	Tata Safari	Rs. 13.29 - 25.96 Lakh	Strong build, 5-star safety rating, and stable ride over rough highways
4	Hyundai Creta	Rs. 10.79 - 20.20 Lakh	Quiet cabin, refined engine, and feature-rich interior for comfortable highway drives
5	Maruti Grand Vitara	Rs. 10.77 - 19.72 Lakh	Outstanding fuel efficiency and long tank range ideal for uninterrupted trips
6	Honda City e:HEV	Rs. 19.99 Lakh	Smooth hybrid drive and segment-leading seat comfort for relaxed cruising
7	Volkswagen Virtus	Rs. 10.00 - 17.99 Lakh	Engaging driving dynamics and high-speed stability, especially on twisty roads
8	Kia Carens	Rs. 10.99 - 12.77 Lakh	Spacious cabin with practical storage, perfect for large families
9	Toyota Fortuner	Rs. 34.76 - 50.46 Lakh	Legendary reliability and ability to tackle extreme terrains with ease
10	Hyundai Tucson	Rs. 29.99 Lakh	Premium cabin, excellent NVH levels, and AWD capability for all-weather drives

The following section now guides you to specifically each model and how they qualify to be in the list of top 10 cars for long drives in India.

1. Toyota Innova Hycross (Rs. 18.70 - 31.84 Lakh)

This Toyota SUV was launched in India in 2022, where it redefined MPV comfort with a monocoque platform and strong hybrid tech. It provides outstanding long drive experience due to its plush ride quality, silent EV operation and relatively high fuel efficiency among other members in its class. This makes it ideal for inter-state journeys. Its standout USP is the Ottoman second-row seats which offer a high level of relaxation.

• Highway suited features: Strong hybrid system offering 23+ kmpl overall mileage, cruise control, panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats
• Safety features: It has achieved 5-Star BNCAP ratings. Available with 6 airbags, ADAS, ESC, 360-degree camera
• Seating plan: 7 & 8-seater
• Mileage: Up to 23.24 kmpl 

If comfort is your top priority, this is easily the best highway cruiser in India.

2. Mahindra XUV700 (Rs. 14.49 - 25.14 Lakh)

Once Mahindra’s primary sales driver, this powerful SUV made its debut in 2021. Quickly in some time, XUV700 became a benchmark in the SUV segment. Its powerful diesel engine and advanced ADAS suite make it one of the most capable long drive cars for highways. The USP lies in its effortless high-speed cruising and driver assistance tech.

• Highway suited features: Comes with the Level 2 ADAS, adaptive cruise control, powerful diesel engine which is best for high economy highway driving.
• Safety features: 7 airbags as standard, 5-star Global NCAP safety rating and lane keep assist as primary highlights.
• Seating plan: Comes in both 5 and 7-seater configurations.
• Mileage: 13–17 kmpl

Perfect for those who want performance with next level tech on highways.

3. Tata Safari (Rs. 13.29 - 25.96 Lakh)

Tata Safari is a highway icon when it comes to highway driving. Launched in 1998 but reintroduced in 2021, it is built on the OMEGARC platform derived from Land Rover. It excels as one of the best cars for long drives due to its embedded ride and ability to absorb rough patches easily. Its USP is its strong build and commanding road presence.

• Highway suited features: The Terrain response mode enables you to drive effortlessly regardless of any terrain. The smooth suspension helps in a comfortable ride and cruise control give additional convenience.
• Safety features: 7 airbags standard, 5-star BNCAP crash ratings, ESP and ADAS (new variants).
• Seating plan: Comes in both 6 and 7 seater configurations.
• Mileage: 14 - 16 kmpl

Ideal for Indian highways where road conditions are unpredictable.

4. Hyundai Creta (Rs. 10.79 - 20.20 Lakh)

The Hyundai Creta comes in the list of most sold models in India (till now). It was launched in 2015 but updated multiple times, and its next facelift is expected no earlier than late 2026. The model remains a segment leader because it is a top choice among long drive cars. This is due to its refined engines and extremely quiet cabin. Its USP is its excellent NVH control and comfort-oriented interior.

• Highway suited features: Ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof and smooth automatic gearbox
• Safety features: 6 airbags, ADAS (facelift), ESC
• Seating plan: 5 seater configuration
• Mileage: 17 - 21 kmpl

A balanced SUV that does everything right for long journeys.

5. Maruti Grand Vitara (Rs. 10.77 - 19.72 Lakh)

Grand Vitara was launched in 2022 in India and brought strong hybrid tech to the Indian SUV domain. It is one of the most efficient cars for long drives, offering exceptional range and minimal fuel stops. Its USP is its fuel efficiency which is best in the segment.

• Highway suited features: Its strong hybrid system is capable of delivering 114 hp (among the strongest in hybrid space). Smooth ride and cruise control are also among its key driving highlights.
• Safety features: 6 airbags, ESP and hill hold assist in uphill driving.
• Seating plan: 5-seater (in all variants)
• Mileage: Up to 27.97 kmpl (hybrid)

Best pick for long-distance travel with minimum fuel expense

6. Honda City e:HEV (Rs. 19.99 Lakh)

Honda City e:HEV is the leading model in sedan segment and was launched in hybrid form in 2022. It blends sedan comfort with hybrid efficiency very effectively with its Japanese technology. Being a top sedan for long drive, it is best for those who prefer low-slung stability and superior seat comfort. Its USP is its ultra-smooth hybrid drive and premium ride quality.

• Highway suited features: The e-CVT transmission is smooth for long drives while ADAS is like your copilot. Comfortable suspension will never let you feel anything uneven on highways.
• Safety features: The 6 airbags ensure utmost safety where its remarkable 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating explains everything. Honda Sensing (ADAS) and lane watch camera adds an additional layer of surveillance.
• Seating plan: 5-seater
• Mileage: 26.5 kmpl

It is therefore, a perfect sedan for effortless and relaxed highway cruising.

7. Volkswagen Virtus (Rs. 10.00 - 17.99 Lakh)

Volkswagen Virtus, a German engineered affordable sedan, was launched in India in the year 2022. It gives outstanding performance on long drives and when twisty roads are concerned, it handles them like a piece of cake. This is all due to its sharp handling and powerful turbo engines. Its USP lies in its pricing where the driving dynamics rarely matched in this price range.

• Highway suited features: Its 1.5L TSI engine which is rare to find in the segment (expect Slavia) delivers strong highway performance. Its cruise control and stable chassis also contribute to the smooth ride experience.
• Safety features: 6 airbags, ESC, 5-star Global NCAP
• Seating plan: 5-seater
• Mileage: 18–20 kmpl

The go-to choice for drivers who enjoy every mile of the journey.

8. Kia Carens (Rs. 10.99 - 12.77 Lakh)

This feature king - Carens, was launched in 2022. It is a practical and spacious MPV designed for families. Its space efficiency and comfort at an accessible price makes it one of the most sensible long drive cars in India. The Smart interior packaging is its standout USP.

• Highway suited features: Comfortable ride, diesel automatic option, rear AC vents
• The rear AC vents along with the front keeps the cabin temperature maintained. The diesel automatic option is another thing for comfortable long highway drives.
• Safety features: 6 airbags standard, ESC, TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System) helping driver aware of the vehicle in and out workings.
• Seating plan: 6 and 7-seater
• Mileage: 16 - 21 kmpl

It is thus a value rich people mover for long family road trips.

9. Toyota Fortuner (Rs. 34.76 - 50.46 Lakh)

The Fortuner (known for its ruggedness) was introduced in India in 2009 and has been updated multiple times since then. It is one of the most reliable cars for long journeys particularly in harsh conditions. It's reliability and off-road performance are unparalleled.

• Highway suited features: 4 wheel drive system, powerful diesel engine, high ground clearance
• Safety features: 7 airbags, traction control, hill descent control
• Seating plan: 7-seater
• Mileage: 10–14 kmpl

Designed for people that wish to travel beyond the roads without stress.

10. Hyundai Tucson (Rs. 29.99 Lakh)

The Hyundai Tucson’s latest version was launched in 2022 where it features a high-end SUV feel. It's also unique among a long list of long-distance driving cars for its cabin refinement and AWD tech. It offers luxury style comfort at a no-luxury price point.

• Highway suited features: H-TRAC AWD, dual-zone climate control, premium suspension
• Safety features: ADAS, 6 airbags, blind spot monitoring
• Seating plan: 5-seater
• Mileage: 13 - 18 kmpl

A premium highway cruiser for those who value comfort and sophistication.

Conclusion

Choosing the right cars for long drives ultimately depends on your priorities, whether comfort, efficiency, performance or budget. From the ultra-comfortable Toyota Innova Hycross to the tech-loaded Mahindra XUV700 and fuel-efficient Maruti Grand Vitara, each model caters to a different kind of traveller. Meanwhile, there are alternatives such as the Hyundai Creta and Honda City e:HEV here that offer the perfect balance. The best long drive cars are the ones that keep you comfortable, safe, and stress-free mile after mile.

FAQs

1. Which are the best cars for long drives in India?
   Top choices include the Toyota Innova Hycross, Mahindra XUV700, and Hyundai Creta due to their comfort, features, and highway performance.
2. Are SUVs better than sedans for long drives?
   SUVs offer better ground clearance and visibility, while sedans like the Honda City e:HEV provide superior ride stability and comfort. The choice depends on road conditions and personal preference.
3. Which car gives the best mileage for long trips?
   The Maruti Grand Vitara and Honda City e:HEV offer excellent mileage, making them ideal for long-distance travel with fewer fuel stops.
4. What features should a long drive car have?
   Key features include cruise control, comfortable seating, good suspension, high safety ratings, and infotainment systems for a stress-free journey.
5. Which is the most comfortable car for family road trips?
   The Toyota Innova Hycross and Kia Carens are excellent for families due to their spacious cabins and comfortable seating layouts.