Road trips offer a fantastic way to explore new places, create lasting memories, and experience the freedom of the open road. However, selecting the right car is just as crucial as planning the route. An ideal road trip vehicle should provide a mix of comfort, fuel efficiency, reliability, and practicality to ensure a smooth journey.
Whether embarking on a cross-country adventure or a short weekend getaway, having a car that can endure long highway drives while keeping passengers comfortable and entertained is essential.
Although SUVs and trucks are common choices, sedans remain a great option due to their fuel efficiency, smooth ride, and affordability. A well-equipped sedan offers sufficient trunk space, modern technology, and a refined driving experience without the higher costs of larger vehicles.
This article highlights ten affordable used sedans ideal for road trips, combining comfort, efficiency, and long-distance capability. Sourced from manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, the information ensures that travelers can find a reliable and budget-friendly option for their next adventure.
1. 2016 Chevrolet Malibu 2.5
The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu 2.5 is a great choice for road trips, offering a smooth ride, spacious interior, and solid performance. Powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 197 horsepower, this midsize sedan provides a refined highway driving experience with minimal road noise.
Its well-tuned suspension absorbs bumps effectively, ensuring comfort even on rough roads. Additionally, with an EPA-rated 27 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway, along with Chevrolet’s start-stop technology, the Malibu delivers excellent fuel efficiency, reducing the need for frequent refueling during long trips.
Inside, the Malibu features comfortable seating, a user-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and generous legroom for both front and rear passengers. The 16.3 cubic feet of trunk space offers ample storage for luggage, making it practical for extended travel.
With front-wheel drive, a six-speed automatic transmission, and a 0-60 mph time of 8.0 seconds, the Malibu balances performance and efficiency well. Its combination of comfort, technology, and fuel economy makes it a reliable and budget-friendly option for road trips.
2. 2020 Ford Fusion SE
The 2020 Ford Fusion SE is a well-rounded midsize sedan that offers a great balance of power, efficiency, and comfort for road trips. Equipped with a 1.5-liter EcoBoost turbocharged engine producing 181 horsepower, it delivers a smooth and quiet ride, making long-distance travel enjoyable.
With an EPA-rated 23 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, the Fusion provides reasonable fuel efficiency, while its 16.5-gallon fuel tank ensures fewer stops for refueling.
Additionally, Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite, which includes adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, enhances safety and reduces driver fatigue on extended highway drives.
Inside, the Fusion SE features the SYNC 3 infotainment system with an eight-inch touchscreen for easy navigation and media control. Its spacious cabin, supportive seats, and 16 cubic feet of trunk space provide ample room for passengers and luggage, making it a practical choice for extended getaways.
Paired with a front-wheel-drive system, a six-speed automatic transmission, and a 0-60 mph time of 8.9 seconds, the Fusion SE strikes a solid balance between performance and efficiency, making it a reliable companion for road trips.
3. 2017 Honda Civic LX
The 2017 Honda Civic LX is a top choice for road trips, offering excellent fuel economy, a comfortable ride, and Honda’s well-known reliability. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 158 horsepower, providing sufficient power for smooth highway cruising while maintaining impressive efficiency.
The well-insulated cabin minimizes road noise, enhancing passenger comfort on long drives. With an EPA rating of 30 mpg city and 40 mpg highway, the Civic excels in fuel savings, and its 12.4-gallon fuel tank allows for nearly 500 miles of driving on a single fill-up, reducing the need for frequent stops.
Inside, the Civic LX features a spacious cabin with generous rear legroom, ensuring comfort for all passengers. Its 15.1 cubic feet of trunk space is impressive for a compact sedan, easily accommodating luggage and travel essentials.
Additionally, the Civic’s smooth CVT transmission optimizes fuel efficiency, making it a cost-effective option for extended trips. Known for its dependability and low maintenance costs, the 2017 Honda Civic LX is a stress-free and budget-friendly vehicle, perfect for long-distance travel.
4. 2016 Lexus IS200t
The 2016 Lexus IS 200t is an excellent choice for road trippers seeking a blend of luxury and performance. Powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 241 horsepower, this sedan delivers a smooth and refined highway experience.
Lexus’ signature quiet cabin and impeccable ride quality ensure comfort on long drives. With an EPA rating of 22 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, the IS 200t offers decent fuel efficiency for a luxury vehicle, while its 17.4-gallon fuel tank allows for extended travel with fewer stops.
Inside, the IS 200t boasts premium materials, supportive seating, and advanced technology, including an optional Mark Levinson sound system for an enhanced audio experience.
Though its 10.8 cubic feet of trunk space is on the smaller side, the car’s combination of comfort, performance, and reliability makes it a great option for those who value a more refined road trip experience. With Lexus’ reputation for durability, the IS 200t ensures a worry-free journey with minimal maintenance concerns.
5. 2017 Toyota Camry SE
The 2017 Toyota Camry SE is a reliable and practical choice for road trips, offering a smooth and stable ride. Powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 178 horsepower, it delivers a balanced mix of performance and efficiency.
The well-tuned suspension enhances highway stability, ensuring long-distance comfort. With an EPA-rated 24 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, the Camry provides solid fuel efficiency, while its 17-gallon fuel tank allows for extended driving ranges with fewer stops. Toyota’s renowned durability makes it a great option for high-mileage travel.
Inside, the Camry SE features comfortable cloth seats with bolstering, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a spacious cabin that accommodates passengers with ease.
The 15.4 cubic feet of trunk space offers ample storage for luggage, making it ideal for road trips. With its combination of comfort, efficiency, and reliability, the 2017 Camry SE remains a dependable and budget-friendly option for long-distance driving.
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6. 2018 Acura TLX 2.4
The 2018 Acura TLX 2.4 is a sporty yet practical option for road trips, offering a balance of performance, efficiency, and luxury. Its 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine produces 206 horsepower, providing responsive acceleration and smooth highway cruising.
The well-tuned suspension and precise steering enhance driving enjoyment, making long trips feel effortless. With an EPA-rated 23 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, the TLX is a fuel-efficient luxury sedan, and its 17.2-gallon fuel tank allows for extended travel with fewer stops. Acura’s reputation for reliability also ensures a worry-free journey.
Inside, the TLX boasts a refined cabin with leather-trimmed seats, a dual-screen infotainment system, and a premium sound system for an enjoyable ride.
While its 14.3 cubic feet of trunk space isn’t the largest, it still provides sufficient room for road trip essentials. With its blend of comfort, style, and long-distance capability, the 2018 Acura TLX 2.4 is an excellent choice for travelers who want a touch of sportiness without sacrificing practicality.
7. 2017 Audi A4 2.0T FWD
The 2017 Audi A4 2.0T FWD is a refined and powerful luxury sedan, making it an excellent choice for road trips. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produces 252 horsepower, delivering smooth acceleration and stable highway performance with minimal cabin noise.
With an EPA-rated 25 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, the A4 balances sporty driving with strong fuel efficiency. Its 15.3-gallon fuel tank allows for long-distance travel with fewer fuel stops, while the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission ensures a seamless and comfortable ride.
Inside, the A4 features a high-quality cabin with comfortable seating and cutting-edge technology, including Audi’s Virtual Cockpit, which enhances driver convenience. The 13 cubic feet of trunk space is adequate for most travelers, offering room for luggage without compromising comfort.
Additionally, Audi’s suite of safety features provides extra peace of mind on the road. With its combination of luxury, efficiency, and advanced tech, the 2017 Audi A4 2.0T FWD is a great option for those seeking an upscale yet practical road trip vehicle.
8. 2016 Cadillac CTS 2.0 Turbo Luxury
The 2016 Cadillac CTS 2.0 Turbo Luxury is a premium sedan that offers a refined and powerful road trip experience. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivers 268 horsepower, providing smooth acceleration and effortless highway cruising.
The CTS features responsive handling and Cadillac’s Magnetic Ride Control, which enhances comfort by adapting to road conditions. With an EPA-rated 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, along with a 19-gallon fuel tank, this luxury sedan allows for long-distance travel with fewer fuel stops.
Inside, the CTS boasts high-end features, including plush leather seats, a Bose premium sound system, and an intuitive infotainment system for an enjoyable driving experience. The 13.7 cubic feet of trunk space provides sufficient room for luggage, making it a practical yet luxurious choice for road trips.
With its blend of comfort, performance, and advanced technology, the 2016 Cadillac CTS 2.0 Turbo Luxury is an excellent option for travelers seeking both style and functionality.
9. 2018 Mazda6 2.5 Signature
The 2018 Mazda6 2.5 Signature is a stylish and engaging sedan that delivers both performance and comfort for long road trips. Powered by a 2.5-liter engine with 187 horsepower, it offers smooth handling and a well-insulated cabin for a refined driving experience.
With an EPA-rated 26 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, the Mazda6 is impressively fuel-efficient, while its 16.4-gallon fuel tank allows for extended travel without frequent stops. Its responsive steering and balanced ride make highway cruising both enjoyable and effortless.
Inside, the Mazda6 Signature trim boasts upscale features such as Nappa leather seats, a premium Bose audio system, and an intuitive eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The 14.7 cubic feet of trunk space provides practical storage for road trip essentials.
With its combination of luxury, efficiency, and driving enjoyment, the 2018 Mazda6 2.5 Signature stands out as a well-rounded and stylish option for travelers seeking both comfort and performance.
10. 2019 Hyundai Sonata 1.6 Turbo
The 2019 Hyundai Sonata 1.6 Turbo is a fuel-efficient and comfortable sedan, making it an excellent choice for road trips. Its 1.6-liter turbocharged engine delivers 178 horsepower, providing a smooth and enjoyable highway ride.
With an impressive fuel economy of 28 mpg city and 37 mpg highway, along with an 18.5-gallon fuel tank, the Sonata minimizes fuel stops on long journeys.
Inside, it offers a spacious cabin, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a generous 16.3 cubic feet of trunk space for luggage. Advanced driver-assistance features and a well-cushioned ride further enhance the travel experience, making the Sonata a practical and value-packed option.
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