Road trips bring out something special in all of us. You pack your bags, load up your favourite snacks, queue up that perfect playlist, and just like that, you’re ready to chase sunsets and create memories that last forever. But here’s the thing: all those beautiful plans can quickly turn sour if your vehicle decides to misbehave halfway through your journey.
Nobody wants to spend hours stranded on some lonely highway, watching their dream vacation slip away while waiting for a tow truck. That’s exactly why choosing the right SUV matters so much when you’re planning to hit the road.
Sport utility vehicles have become the go-to choice for families and adventure seekers who refuse to compromise on space, comfort, or capability. These machines offer enough room for everyone to stretch out, enough cargo space for all your luggage, and enough power to handle whatever road conditions throw your way.
But not all SUVs wear the reliability badge with equal pride. Some models have built their reputation on consistently getting people from point A to point B without drama, while others spend more time in repair shops than on actual roads.
What you’ll find on this page are ten SUVs that have proven themselves time and again as trustworthy companions for long-distance travel. These aren’t just pretty faces with flashy features.
Each one brings something special to the table: proven mechanical reliability, comfortable cabins for those long hours on the road, and the kind of dependability that lets you focus on enjoying your trip rather than worrying about breakdowns. Let’s get into it.
1. Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro
Ask anyone watching the luxury SUV market, and they will tell you the Jeep Grand Wagoneer has become a curious case when it comes to resale value. This large and elegant machine carries serious road presence and comfort, yet its value on the used market can surprise buyers who expect it to hold up like smaller luxury models.
Within just a few years of purchase, most Grand Wagoneer units drop by nearly half their original cost. Reports show that after about five years, many resell around fifty percent lower than the showroom price. That may sound harsh, but there are reasons behind it.
Luxury full-size SUVs cost a lot to maintain, and fuel consumption is heavy. Those who can afford them new often prefer to upgrade quickly, leaving used examples to compete with newer releases. High running costs, changing buyer preferences, and rapid model updates make resale tougher.
Still, not all Grand Wagoneers lose value at the same rate. Versions with the Hurricane twin-turbo engine, low mileage, clean service records, and rare trims like the Obsidian or Series III often attract higher bids. Buyers appreciate originality and well-kept interiors. In places where premium SUVs are in short supply, these Jeeps even fetch better than expected.
For anyone planning to buy one, the smart move is to maintain it carefully, keep records, and avoid heavy customization. With proper care, your Grand Wagoneer can retain its desirability, ensuring a fair resale price when it’s time to part ways.
2. Honda CR-V EX-L
Shifting gears completely, let’s discuss the Honda CR-V EX-L, which approaches reliability from a completely different angle. Where the 4Runner focuses on rugged capability, this Honda prioritizes efficiency and everyday practicality. Don’t mistake that for weakness, though. This compact SUV has built an impressive reputation for going the distance without demanding much in return.
Powering the CR-V EX-L is a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 190 horsepower. Some drivers worry about turbocharged engines and their long-term reliability, but Honda has engineered this particular setup to withstand years of use without major issues.
What really impresses is the fuel economy: this SUV sips fuel like a sedan, which means you’ll spend less time and money at petrol stations during your road trip. That’s money better spent on experiences, good food, and proper accommodation.
Comfort levels inside the CR-V reach impressive heights. Leather seats come standard in the EX-L trim, and they’re designed to support your body properly during those marathon driving sessions.
Rear passengers get generous legroom, so nobody will be complaining about cramped quarters halfway through your journey. Dual-zone climate control lets the driver and passengers set different temperatures, which keeps peace in the family when some people run hot and others prefer cooler air.
Technology features blend seamlessly into the cabin without overwhelming first-time users. The infotainment system responds quickly to inputs, connects easily with smartphones, and displays information clearly enough to read at a quick glance.
Safety systems work quietly in the background, offering gentle warnings if you drift from your lane or if another vehicle enters your blind spot. These features don’t make the CR-V feel like a robot driving you around. Instead, they act as helpful copilots that let you stay focused on the road ahead.
Cargo space is generous enough for several large suitcases, camping gear, or shopping bags from those spontaneous stops at roadside markets. Families and friend groups will appreciate how this Honda balances practicality with dependability.
Also Read: 10 SUVs That Offer the Best Towing Capacity in Class
3. Mazda CX-9 Signature
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer carries itself like a boss on the road and in the resale market, too. It might be a full-size luxury SUV, but its secondhand value tells an interesting story. When new, it costs plenty, yet buyers are discovering that it doesn’t keep its price as tightly as some rivals.
Within five years, most units lose about half their original worth, depending on mileage, trim, and care. That sounds steep, but people still chase it because of its prestige, size, and comfort. A buyer who keeps the Grand Wagoneer clean, properly serviced, and with low mileage can still attract good offers later.
Dealers value those traits highly, especially when maintenance records are complete. The more refined trims like Obsidian and Series III usually do better at resale because their luxury appeal remains strong even after years of use.
Fuel consumption plays a part too. With its large engine, many owners are quick to trade when fuel prices rise, which increases supply and lowers prices. Still, for buyers hunting the used market, this makes the Grand Wagoneer attractive because they get a near-new luxury SUV for far less.
Another factor is market reputation. People trust its strong build, towing ability, and rich interior, which helps resale stay steady compared to some luxury competitors. So, while depreciation hits hard in the early years, the Grand Wagoneer still holds charm that keeps buyers bidding. Treated well, it can return fair value when it’s time to sell.
4. Subaru Outback Wilderness
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer holds its place as a luxury SUV that blends prestige, size, and power, but its resale story is a bit different from what some buyers expect. When brand new, it commands a high price due to its premium build, technology, and performance.
Yet, after a few years of use, its resale value drops faster than smaller SUVs. Market data shows that the Grand Wagoneer can lose close to half of its worth within five years. This happens mostly because luxury vehicles depreciate faster once newer trims and technology updates arrive.
Buyers who keep theirs in clean condition, with full maintenance records and lower mileage, tend to get better offers when it’s time to sell. Trims like the Obsidian or Series III hold slightly more value because of their exclusive interiors and high-end options. However, heavy fuel consumption and expensive upkeep can discourage second-hand buyers, reducing demand in used markets.
Dealers have observed that Grand Wagoneers with fewer mechanical issues, accident-free history, and untouched interiors still fetch fair prices, though not as high as competitors from European brands. The nameplate carries strong prestige, but resale depends heavily on how well the vehicle has been cared for.
So, while the Jeep Grand Wagoneer delivers immense comfort, strength, and luxury from day one, its resale value reflects the cost of owning such grandeur. Those who maintain theirs properly and keep mileage low can still cash out decently when it’s time to move on.
5. Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy
Korean automakers have come a long way, and the Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy stands as proof of just how far they’ve climbed. This large three-row SUV competes directly with established players but undercuts many of them on price while matching or exceeding them in features and quality.
For families planning road trips with multiple generations, the Palisade offers space and comfort that rival much more expensive options.
Motivation comes from a 3.8-litre V6 engine that produces 291 horsepower, giving this big SUV plenty of muscle for highway merging and passing. Eight-speed automatic transmission manages gear changes smoothly, and the powertrain never feels strained even when carrying seven or eight passengers with their luggage.
Front-wheel drive comes standard, but adding all-wheel drive is wise if you expect to encounter wet or snowy conditions during your travels. Fuel economy won’t break any records, but it remains reasonable considering the size and weight of this vehicle.
Calligraphy trim represents Hyundai’s top-tier offering, and the company holds nothing back. Quilted Nappa leather seats look and feel luxurious, providing excellent support and multiple adjustment options for finding that perfect driving position. Second-row captain’s chairs replace the standard bench seat, reducing passenger capacity to seven but increasing comfort dramatically.
These seats recline, slide, and include their own climate controls, treating second-row passengers like VIPs rather than an afterthought. Third-row access is easier than in most competitors, and once back there, adults can actually sit without their knees touching their chins.
Technology integration is thoughtful and user-friendly. Large touchscreen responds instantly to touches, displays clear graphics, and supports both wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Digital instrument cluster shows relevant information without cluttering the view with unnecessary data.
Heads-up display projects speed and navigation instructions onto the windscreen, letting drivers keep their eyes on the road. Surround-view camera system makes parking this large SUV surprisingly easy, displaying a bird’s-eye view that shows exactly where the vehicle sits relative to obstacles.
Hyundai backs the Palisade with one of the industry’s best warranty programs, which speaks volumes about its confidence in this SUV’s long-term reliability. When you’re planning a road trip that might cover thousands of kilometres, that kind of backing provides real peace of mind.
6. Ford Expedition Max XLT
The Ford Expedition Max XLT stands tall as one of those machines that remind everyone what American SUVs are all about big body, serious power, and a presence that can’t be ignored. You feel its confidence the moment you climb in.
There’s proper space for eight grown passengers, and everyone still gets room for luggage. It’s the kind of vehicle made for families, travel groups, or anyone who values comfort mixed with muscle. Power comes from a 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 EcoBoost engine pushing out 400 horsepower.
Despite its size, the Expedition moves with energy that surprises many drivers. Acceleration is brisk, overtaking on highways feels easy, and the ten-speed automatic gearbox shifts smoothly, keeping the engine in its sweet spot. When equipped right, this SUV can tow up to 9,300 pounds, which easily covers caravans, trailers, or boats for weekend adventures.
Inside, the comfort level feels thoughtful. The longer wheelbase of the Max version creates more cargo room even with all three rows up. Third-row passengers sit comfortably without knees touching seats, and folding those seats flat transforms the cabin into a mini-cargo van. Every row benefits from tri-zone climate control, making long journeys peaceful.
Out on the road, independent rear suspension keeps bumps under control. Handling feels steady, not floaty, even at highway speeds. Drivers describe it as big yet well-mannered. With improved reliability and refined design, the Ford Expedition Max XLT continues to prove that American SUVs still know how to combine strength, comfort, and space in one solid package.
7. Kia Telluride SX
Right alongside their Korean cousins at Hyundai, Kia has been producing vehicles that punch well above their price point. The Kia Telluride SX has won numerous awards since its debut, and those accolades aren’t just marketing fluff.
This three-row SUV genuinely deserves the praise heaped upon it by critics and owners alike. Families looking for dependable road trip transportation that doesn’t require a second mortgage will find the Telluride especially appealing.
Sharing its powertrain with the Palisade, the Telluride uses a 3.8-litre V6 producing 291 horsepower. Eight-speed automatic transmission handles power delivery smoothly, and all-wheel drive is available for those who want extra traction and security.
Performance feels adequate rather than exciting, but that’s perfectly fine in a family hauler where reliability and comfort matter more than stoplight sprints. Fuel economy hovers around what you’d expect from a large SUV, requiring occasional fuel stops but not draining your wallet excessively.
SX trim brings substantial equipment levels that make long drives more enjoyable. Leather seating surfaces feel durable and comfortable, resisting wear better than cheaper materials. Second-row captain’s chairs provide excellent comfort and make third-row access much easier than climbing over a bench seat.
Ventilated front seats keep you cool during hot weather, while a heated steering wheel and heated seats combat cold morning starts. Dual sunroofs brighten the cabin and give rear passengers their own view of the sky, which children especially appreciate on long drives.
The infotainment system ranks among the best in the class for ease of use and functionality. Large touchscreen displays sharp graphics, responds quickly to inputs, and arranges menus logically. Physical buttons and knobs for climate and audio controls remain present, which makes adjusting settings while driving much safer than fumbling through touchscreen menus.
Premium Harman Kardon audio system delivers excellent sound quality, making music, podcasts, and audiobooks sound better than through basic factory speakers. Safety technology includes everything from automatic emergency braking to blind-spot monitoring, helping prevent accidents during those moments when attention wavers after hours behind the wheel.
Kia’s ten-year, 100,000-kilometre powertrain warranty provides exceptional protection, giving buyers confidence that their investment will last. When you’re putting serious miles on your SUV during road trips, that kind of warranty coverage matters enormously.
8. Nissan Pathfinder SL
The Nissan Pathfinder SL shows how far the Pathfinder name has come, trading its old truck roots for a calmer, family-friendly personality. It keeps enough muscle to handle work while offering a comfort fit for long-distance travel. For many families, this trim delivers the right balance between price, performance, and practicality.
Powering it is a 3.5-litre V6 that pushes out 284 horsepower, paired with a nine-speed automatic gearbox. Gear changes are mostly smooth, though sometimes you may feel the transmission searching during steady cruising.
Those who live where roads get wet or snowy will benefit from the available all-wheel-drive system, which adds confidence when conditions change. The Pathfinder can tow up to 6,000 pounds, enough for a small caravan or fishing boat. Fuel use sits around average for its class, making it manageable for daily runs and holiday trips alike.
Inside, space and comfort take priority. The cabin seats seven people, and the second row can slide or recline for easier access to the back. The third row fits kids well, though adults may prefer shorter stints there. Upholstery feels durable, with optional leather for those who want an upgrade. Climate controls reach all rows, and there are enough charging points for every passenger’s gadgets.
On the road, the Pathfinder SL feels settled. Steering is light, the suspension smooths out rough surfaces, and road noise stays low. It might not feel sporty, but it carries families, luggage, and weekend dreams with steady grace and dependable manners.
9. Chevrolet Tahoe RST
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer carries itself like a luxury mansion on wheels, yet it pays the price in resale value. When brand new, this SUV commands a steep figure, but once it leaves the showroom, it starts losing a fair share of that money.
After about five years, a typical Grand Wagoneer can drop by roughly half of its purchase price. That means a vehicle bought for around eighty-five thousand dollars might later sell for a little over forty thousand, depending on mileage and condition.
Buyers who maintain their Grand Wagoneer carefully, keeping service records, avoiding scratches, and driving fewer miles, stand a better chance of getting a stronger resale deal. Those who use it roughly, tow heavy loads often, or skip maintenance will face lower offers.
Because this model sits in the luxury class, repair costs, fuel consumption, and depreciation rates tend to be higher than on smaller Jeeps. Market taste also plays a big role. When fuel prices go up or when new electric options become more attractive, large petrol SUVs like this lose a bit of shine.
Still, certain trims such as the Obsidian or Series III hold value slightly better, especially when equipped with the new Hurricane engine. Buyers look for clean examples with full factory features, so attention to detail pays off.
Even with depreciation, many owners keep the Grand Wagoneer for its comfort, power, and commanding road presence. It may lose value faster than some rivals, but few vehicles feel as grand while doing it.
Also Read: 10 SUVs Built for the American Family Lifestyle
10. Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited
Closing out this list is the Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited, which brings legendary off-road capability to the three-row SUV segment.
Jeep has been building the Grand Cherokee for decades, constantly refining and improving it while maintaining the rugged character that makes a Jeep a Jeep. Road trippers who want the option to leave paved roads behind will appreciate what this model offers.
Multiple engine options are available, but the 3.6-litre V6 producing 293 horsepower represents the sweet spot for most buyers.
Available 5.7-litre V8 and plug-in hybrid variants cater to those wanting more power or better efficiency, but the V6 satisfies most needs admirably. Jeep’s Quadra-Trac II four-wheel-drive system comes standard on many trims, providing excellent traction on slippery surfaces.
Limited trim brings substantial comfort and convenience features to the Grand Cherokee package. Leather seats look good and provide decent support, though they’re not quite as plush as some luxury competitors. Heated and ventilated front seats combat temperature extremes, while heated second-row seats keep rear passengers comfortable in cold weather.
Uconnect infotainment system ranks among the best in the business for responsiveness and ease of use. Large touchscreen displays crisp graphics, physical controls for important functions remain easily accessible, and smartphone integration works seamlessly.
Cargo capacity is generous for a midsize SUV, handling luggage for the whole family without requiring roof boxes. Rear seats fold with reasonable ease, expanding the cargo area dramatically when you don’t need three rows of seating.
The quality of interior materials has improved in recent Grand Cherokee generations, feeling more upscale than older versions. Ride quality balances comfort with capability, providing decent isolation from road imperfections while maintaining the control needed for off-road adventures.
