India is a land of diverse terrains—from winding mountain roads to coastal highways and endless plains. Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a friends’ adventure, or a solo expedition, choosing the best road trip cars is critical. You need a vehicle that offers strong mileage, ample space, comfort for long drives, and the performance to handle different road conditions.
Here’s a detailed comparison of the top 5 cars for road trips in India, balancing fuel efficiency, cabin space, boot capacity, and long-distance reliability.
1. Mahindra XUV700 – Power Meets Comfort
The Mahindra XUV700 is quickly becoming a favorite for Indian road trippers. It’s designed for comfort and endurance, with features built for both highways and hilly terrains.
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Engine Options: 2.0L turbo-petrol / 2.2L diesel
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Mileage: 12–16 km/l (real-world average)
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Boot Space: 240–450 litres (depending on seat configuration)
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Key Highlights: ADAS features, panoramic sunroof, strong suspension for rough roads
Whether you’re heading to Ladakh or the Western Ghats, the XUV700 offers a premium ride quality and solid road presence. The third-row seats are tight for adults but great for kids or extra luggage on long drives.
2. Kia Carens – Practicality with a Premium Touch
The Kia Carens blends the practicality of an MPV with the comfort of a crossover, making it one of the best road trip cars for families.
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Engine Options: 1.5L petrol / 1.5L diesel
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Mileage: 16–21 km/l
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Boot Space: 216–645 litres (flexible with seats down)
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Key Highlights: 6 airbags standard, one-touch tumble seats, ventilated front seats
It’s a spacious 6- or 7-seater with intuitive storage options and good legroom across all rows. It’s especially useful for families looking for safe, budget-friendly long drives.
3. Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara – Efficient and Capable
If fuel economy is your top priority without compromising on SUV credentials, the Grand Vitara hybrid is worth considering.
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Engine Options: 1.5L petrol mild hybrid / strong hybrid
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Mileage: 20–27.97 km/l (hybrid variant)
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Boot Space: 373 litres (strong hybrid), 433 litres (mild hybrid)
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Key Highlights: Best-in-class mileage, optional AWD, panoramic sunroof
The hybrid tech gives you outstanding mileage for extended road trips, especially on highways. While not as powerful as larger SUVs, the Grand Vitara is perfect for cost-conscious travelers who still want style and comfort.
4. Toyota Innova Hycross – The Highway King Returns
Toyota’s legendary Innova evolves with the Hycross—now offering hybrid efficiency along with its signature space and comfort.
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Engine Options: 2.0L petrol / 2.0L hybrid
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Mileage: 16–23.24 km/l
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Boot Space: Up to 300 litres (with all rows up)
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Key Highlights: Ottoman rear seats, flat floor, Toyota reliability
The Hycross is ideal for groups or families planning extensive journeys across states. With sofa-like seats and powerful air conditioning, it transforms long drives into relaxing experiences.
5. Tata Safari – Built for the Bold
For adventurers who like a bit of rugged capability with their comfort, the Tata Safari delivers on both fronts.
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Engine: 2.0L diesel
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Mileage: 14–17 km/l
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Boot Space: 447 litres (with third row folded)
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Key Highlights: 6- and 7-seat options, terrain modes, commanding driving position
Safari’s robust build and high ground clearance make it perfect for rough terrains, be it deserts or hilly backroads. Plus, it looks the part—bold, aggressive, and ready for action.
What Makes a Car Great for Road Trips in India?
When evaluating the best road trip cars, keep in mind:
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Fuel Efficiency: Especially important for long highway drives.
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Cabin Space & Boot Capacity: More passengers and luggage demand larger interiors.
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Ride Comfort: Suspension quality, seating ergonomics, and infotainment matter over long durations.
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Safety Features: Crucial when covering long distances or driving at night.
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After-Sales Support: Widespread service networks ensure peace of mind during breakdowns.
Final Thoughts
Each of the above vehicles offers a unique blend of performance, comfort, and practicality for Indian road trips. The best road trip cars aren’t just about mileage—they’re about how you feel after 8 hours behind the wheel, how much luggage you can carry without a headache, and whether the car is built to handle India’s unpredictable roads.
So, before your next long journey, weigh your needs: Are you traveling with family? Prioritize space and comfort. Going solo or with a partner? Opt for fuel efficiency and tech. With the right car, long drives across India can become unforgettable adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Which is the most fuel-efficient road trip car in India?
The Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara strong hybrid offers the best mileage, reaching up to 28 km/l, making it a cost-effective choice for long trips.
Q2: Which car offers the most luggage space for road trips?
The Kia Carens and Tata Safari offer the most flexible boot capacity, ideal for families with large suitcases and gear.
Q3: Is diesel or petrol better for long drives in India?
Diesel engines are generally more fuel-efficient on highways, especially for larger SUVs. However, petrol-hybrids now offer a great balance of power and efficiency.
Q4: Which car is best for road trips in hilly regions?
The Mahindra XUV700 and Tata Safari are excellent for hilly terrain due to their strong torque, suspension setup, and ground clearance.
Q5: What safety features should I look for in a road trip car?
Look for ABS, ESC, multiple airbags, TPMS, and ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) if available.
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