Long road trips across India demand more than just a reliable engine. Whether it’s winding mountain routes, endless highways, or offbeat trails, your car should balance comfort, mileage, and performance. Choosing the right road trip car in India can make or break your journey. Here are the top 5 vehicles that tick all the right boxes—perfect for those who live for the open road.
1. Toyota Innova HyCross – The All-Rounder for Indian Highways
The Toyota Innova HyCross is the evolved version of India’s long-standing road trip favorite—the Innova Crysta. Now with a hybrid powertrain, it’s more fuel-efficient without compromising on power.
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Mileage: Up to 23.24 km/l (Hybrid)
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Seating: 7 or 8-seater configurations
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Key Highlights:
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Spacious cabin with captain seats
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Smooth automatic transmission
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Dual-zone climate control and ventilated seats
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Perfect for family road trips or group travel, the Innova HyCross delivers the kind of comfort and space that’s hard to match. It handles long distances with ease and offers a refined suspension setup suited to varied Indian terrains.
2. Kia Carens – The Value-Loaded Road Trip Companion
If you want premium features without stretching your budget, the Kia Carens is a serious contender among the best road trip cars India has seen in recent years.
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Mileage: Up to 21 km/l (Diesel)
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Seating: 6 or 7-seater options
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Key Highlights:
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Reclining second-row seats
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Bose sound system
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Multiple engine options (Petrol, Turbo, Diesel)
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The Carens blends MPV practicality with SUV-style presence. Whether you’re heading to Goa or driving through the hills of Himachal, the Carens handles it all while keeping passengers entertained and relaxed.
3. Hyundai Tucson – SUV Comfort Meets Road Dominance
Looking for premium SUV picks for long-distance travel? The Hyundai Tucson offers an upscale experience for road trippers who value both tech and comfort.
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Mileage: Around 18.1 km/l (Diesel)
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Seating: 5-seater
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Key Highlights:
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ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)
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Panoramic sunroof
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Large boot space for all your luggage
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The Tucson’s strong diesel engine and refined ride quality make it ideal for highway cruising. It’s a great match for couples or small families seeking a more luxurious and capable SUV for cross-country travel.
4. Mahindra XUV700 – Tech-Loaded Beast with Highway Credentials
The Mahindra XUV700 has quickly earned a place among top SUV picks in India, thanks to its powerful engines and futuristic tech.
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Mileage: Up to 17 km/l (Diesel)
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Seating: 5 or 7-seater
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Key Highlights:
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Massive panoramic sunroof
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10.25-inch dual HD displays
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Advanced safety features including adaptive cruise control
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Ideal for both short getaways and long hauls, the XUV700’s performance and road presence make it one of the most exciting road trip cars in India. Plus, its intelligent driver aids reduce fatigue on extended highway drives.
5. Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara – Mileage King with Hybrid Edge
The Grand Vitara proves you don’t need to sacrifice mileage for SUV ruggedness. Its strong hybrid variant is a game changer for fuel-conscious travelers.
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Mileage: Up to 27.97 km/l (Strong Hybrid)
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Seating: 5-seater
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Key Highlights:
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AWD option for occasional off-roading
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SmartPlay Pro+ infotainment
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Comfortable ride and high fuel economy
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If your road trips include both urban runs and remote destinations, the Grand Vitara is a strong contender. Its efficient hybrid system ensures fewer fuel stops, while its SUV build handles varied road conditions effortlessly.
Final Thoughts
Each car on this list brings a unique set of strengths to the table. Whether your priority is fuel efficiency, tech features, space, or performance, there’s a perfect match for every kind of traveler. These road trip cars in India aren’t just machines—they’re companions built for discovery, designed to keep you safe, comfortable, and engaged on every mile of the journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Which is the best car in India for long road trips?
Answer: The Toyota Innova HyCross is a top pick for its unbeatable combination of comfort, space, and reliability. For solo or couple travel, the Hyundai Tucson and Mahindra XUV700 offer a more premium experience.
Q2. Which SUV is best suited for long drives in India?
Answer: The Mahindra XUV700 and Hyundai Tucson are among the best SUV picks for long drives, offering strong performance, tech features, and spacious interiors.
Q3. What are the most fuel-efficient road trip cars in India?
Answer: The Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara (Strong Hybrid) leads in mileage with nearly 28 km/l. The Toyota Innova HyCross is another efficient choice, especially for larger groups.
Q4. How important is boot space for a road trip car?
Answer: Very important. Ample boot space ensures you can carry luggage, camping gear, or extra supplies without cluttering the cabin, which enhances overall comfort and safety.
Q5. Are diesel cars better for long road trips in India?
Answer: Diesel cars generally offer better mileage and torque, making them suitable for long drives, especially in SUVs. However, modern hybrids like the Grand Vitara and Innova HyCross offer comparable efficiency with lower emissions.
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