Road trips demand vehicles that combine comfort, reliability, versatility, and enough tech to keep you entertained and safe for hours on end. SUVs have long been favored for these qualities, offering more space than sedans, better ground clearance, and a strong sense of capability both on highways and on rougher terrains.
In recent years, automakers have pushed boundaries, introducing SUVs that aren’t just practical, they make long journeys pleasurable and often luxurious. From powerful engines to advanced infotainment systems, these vehicles redefine what it means to be a road trip companion.
Choosing the perfect SUV for a road trip isn’t just about horsepower or off-road capability. It’s also about how well the vehicle fits your lifestyle and travel style. Some travelers prioritize cargo space for camping gear or luggage, while others seek premium comfort and seating for family or friends.
Then there’s fuel efficiency, important for long stretches between gas stations, and of course, safety features to help protect everyone on board during extended drives. Today’s new SUVs address these needs in innovative ways, blending practicality with style and technology.
This list highlights twelve new SUVs that excel as road trip vehicles, each with unique features and strengths. These models come from different segments, from midsize crossovers to larger luxury SUVs, showing how broad the appeal of road trip-ready SUVs really is.
Whether you want a rugged adventure partner, a family hauler with smart technology, or a sophisticated ride with plush interiors, there’s something here for you. What they all share is an ability to make long-distance travel not just doable but truly enjoyable.
As you read through the details of these twelve SUVs, you’ll get a sense of why they stand out. They aren’t just machines; they’re well-thought-out travel companions designed to handle miles of highway, winding mountain roads, and the unexpected challenges of a long trip.
Comfort, technology, safety, and versatility form the core of their appeal. Let’s get started and see which new SUVs rise to the top as the royalty of the road trip.
1. Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander continues to stand out as one of the most balanced SUVs for road trips. Its mix of practicality, comfort, and efficiency makes it a logical choice for families and solo adventurers alike. The Highlander offers three rows of seating, which is especially useful for those traveling with larger groups.
Its second-row captain’s chairs (on some trims) provide a more luxurious experience, while the third row can accommodate kids or smaller adults when necessary. In terms of visibility and seating comfort, the Highlander is among the top in its class, helping reduce the strain of long hours on the road.
Performance-wise, the Highlander offers either a traditional V6 engine or a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain. The V6 delivers smooth acceleration and a stable feel on the highway, while the hybrid variant gives road-trippers the bonus of excellent gas mileage, something that can make a real difference on cross-country drives.
Handling is predictable and soft enough to…
