Although it’s commonly believed that summer is the ideal time for road trips, the urge to travel can strike at any moment. To assist in planning your adventure, we’ve compiled a list of five of the most comfortable sedans for long-distance travel.
These vehicles stand out for offering exceptional comfort. After all, there’s nothing worse than dealing with back pain after spending hours in the driver’s or even the passenger’s seat.
Each car we’ve selected also comes with a key advantage: it’s affordable and won’t strain your finances.
If you’re considering a used sedan and want to avoid potential headaches, here are 5 most comfortable sedans for long-distance travel and 5 famously unreliable models that savvy buyers tend to avoid.
1. Nissan Altima
The four-door Nissan Altima, which comfortably seats up to five passengers, is particularly noted for its zero-gravity seats designed to support various body types. According to Nissan, there’s serious research and development behind these innovative seats.
“They’re inspired by the weightlessness of space. In a weightless environment, the human body assumes a neutral spinal posture a natural position where the least amount of stress is placed on our bones and joints, so we’re less likely to become tired.”
It features a roomy interior and a wealth of modern technology, helping you feel at home the moment you step inside. For just over $1,300 more, you can upgrade to an all-wheel-drive version that offers improved handling.
The 2024 Nissan Altima starts at around $26,000 for the base model and can go up to $34,000 for higher trims like the SR or SL with the turbocharged engine and additional features. With its competitive pricing, the Altima is positioned as a value-oriented option in the crowded mid-size sedan market.
Overall, the Nissan Altima remains a strong contender for anyone looking for a reliable, fuel-efficient sedan with modern features, solid performance, and a comfortable ride.
2. Toyota Camry
This roomy, fuel-efficient sedan is ready to carry you through your next great road trip, starting at $25,380. The Camry is now available in a hybrid version, and the entire range from the base trim to the higher-end models boasts excellent fuel economy.
There’s generous cargo room in both the trunk and the cabin, so feel free to bring along extra pillows, snacks, and anything else you might need for the journey there’s ample space to store it all.
When it comes to performance, not every Camry trim includes all-wheel drive by default, but you can add it for $1,400. Additionally, driver assistance features come standard on every Camry, providing added peace of mind wherever the road takes you.
Under the hood, the 2024 Toyota Camry offers two engine choices: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, and an optional 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 301 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque.
Both engines come paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While the four-cylinder offers a great balance of fuel efficiency and power, the V6 option provides a noticeable performance boost for those seeking more thrills.
The Camry also offers a hybrid variant, which combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with an electric motor to produce a total of 208 horsepower while achieving impressive fuel economy ratings, reaching up to 51 MPG city and 53 MPG highway.
3. Volkswagen Passat
It’s true that this German automaker has often been associated with underwhelming design and limited features.
The exterior of the Passat leans more towards the traditional side when compared to the more eye-catching designs of the Camry or Altima, and its interior maintains a clean, minimalist look.
However, what the Passat may lack in flair, it makes up for with a roomy cabin, making it an ideal option for families.
The Passat has also received high marks for safety. Newer models come standard with features such as automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and satellite radio.
This understated sedan is a reliable and comfortable choice for long-distance drives, all at a reasonable base price of $23,915.
4. Hyundai Elantra Limited
In contrast to the Passat, the Elantra Limited makes a bold visual statement. It also delivers a commendable driving experience, with refined suspension tuning ensuring a smooth and steady ride.
A robust suite of driver-assistance technologies provides added security for both you and your passengers.
The latest infotainment and connectivity systems help you stay on track and keep everyone entertained along the way.
The Limited trim of the Elantra includes dual automatic climate control, allowing passengers to enjoy individually tailored comfort settings throughout the journey.
The Elantra is further proof that luxury doesn’t have to come at a high cost. A brand-new model can be yours for $23,730.
5. Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is fun, functional, and incredibly versatile. What more could you need? It comes packed with the latest in safety and tech options. For those who crave a little extra excitement, there’s a turbocharged version available.
And if you enjoy a more engaging drive, the six-speed manual transmission offers a hands-on feel.
Inside, the Civic provides ample space, with smartly placed storage solutions scattered throughout the cabin. The trunk also offers plenty of room.
Newer models are equipped with Honda Sensing, a suite of driver-assistance technologies that help ensure everyone’s safety on the road. The starting price for the base model is $20,955.
The 2024 Honda Civic features a minimalist yet functional cabin with high-quality materials and a modern infotainment system. The base model comes with a 7-inch touchscreen, while higher trims upgrade to a 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
The Civic also offers available features like a Bose premium audio system, wireless charging, and navigation. The interior is spacious for a compact car, with ample room for front-seat passengers, while the rear seats provide sufficient space for adults, especially in the sedan and hatchback variants.
On the road, the Civic offers a balanced driving experience, with precise handling and a smooth ride that makes it suitable for both city driving and long highway journeys.
The Civic Si and Type R variants deliver more dynamic performance, with sportier suspensions, more aggressive styling, and a more engaging driving experience, thanks to their powerful turbocharged engines. The standard Civic remains composed, providing comfort and a sense of agility that is rare in its class.
Safety is another strong point of the 2024 Civic, as it comes with the Honda Sensing suite of safety features on all trims.
This includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Additionally, the Civic has earned strong safety ratings, making it a reliable choice for families or anyone prioritizing peace of mind on the road.
Overall, the 2024 Honda Civic offers a well-rounded package that blends efficiency, comfort, and performance, while maintaining its reputation for reliability and value.
Whether you’re looking for a fuel-efficient commuter car, a practical family vehicle, or a performance-oriented model, the Civic has something to offer, making it a top contender in the compact car segment.
Also Read: Top 10 Classic American Cars That Still Have Great Engines
Famously Unreliable Models
Many car buyers turn to the used market when shopping for their next vehicle as a cost-saving strategy. Given how pricey new models can be, buying used is a smart way to stay within budget.
That said, not every used vehicle makes for a good purchase. Some can end up costing more in the long run due to high repair and maintenance bills.
1. 2018 Volvo S90
Those shopping for a used car should think twice before considering the 2018 Volvo S90.
Despite its upscale appearance and luxurious features, many owners have raised concerns about the S90’s reliability, overall build quality, ride comfort, and even the extent of Volvo’s warranty support.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), consumers have submitted 10 complaints regarding the S90, with issues spanning from the electrical system to problems with speed control. In addition, this model has been subject to two recalls.
2. 2016 Nissan Altima
Buyers should be cautious not to let the 2016 Altima’s budget-friendly price tag mislead them. While it may seem like a good deal initially, the money saved upfront could quickly be offset by repair and maintenance costs down the road.
Owners of the Altima have pointed out several shortcomings, especially when it comes to the quality of the interior.
Common complaints include issues with the dashboard and cupholders. Additionally, many have criticized the vehicle’s overall reliability, with frequent mentions of transmission problems.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) lists four recalls, three investigations, and 502 consumer complaints related to this particular model.
Under the hood, the 2016 Altima is equipped with two engine options. The base engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 182 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, delivering a strong balance of power and fuel efficiency.
The more powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine, available in the higher trims, generates 270 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque, providing a noticeable performance boost for those who prefer a more dynamic driving experience.
Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps optimize fuel efficiency and smooth acceleration. The four-cylinder Altima achieves an EPA-estimated 27 MPG city/39 MPG highway, while the V6 model offers 22 MPG city/32 MPG highway.
3. 2018 Hyundai Sonata
The 2018 Hyundai Sonata is another used sedan that may appear to be a cost-effective option but is likely to cause significant frustration for its owners.
Many have criticized the 2018 Sonata for its underwhelming overall build quality. In addition, several drivers have pointed out that the engine performance falls short, especially when it comes to acceleration.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), this model has been the subject of two investigations and one recall, with 264 consumer complaints filed.
The 2018 Hyundai Sonata is a well-rounded midsize sedan that offers a blend of comfort, technology, and reliability, making it a popular choice for those looking for a practical yet stylish vehicle.
With a sleek design, an updated interior, and a host of standard and available features, the 2018 Sonata appeals to a wide range of buyers.
Available in five trims—SE, Eco, SEL, Sport, and Limited—the Sonata offers options that cater to different needs, from everyday commuting to more performance-oriented driving.
Under the hood, the 2018 Sonata offers three engine options. The base model comes equipped with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 185 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, providing a solid balance of power and fuel efficiency.
The Eco trim is powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 178 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, delivering more torque for better acceleration while maintaining good fuel efficiency.
For those seeking more performance, the Sport and Limited trims are available with a more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 245 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, which provides a significant performance boost.
All models are equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission, with the turbocharged models offering quicker acceleration and smoother shifting.
Also Read: 12 Sports Sedans That Can Outrun Supercars in Raw Performance
4. 2019 Audi A6
The 2019 Audi A6 is a clear example that luxury features don’t always come with dependable reliability.
Various complaints indicate that this sleek German performance sedan falls short when it comes to value, largely due to its disappointing reliability and manufacturing standards. According to RepairPal, the vehicle has earned a low reliability rating of just 2.5 out of five.
As expected, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has recorded five recalls and received 103 consumer complaints for the 2019 Audi A6.
5. 2019 Kia Forte
The 2019 Kia Forte is another budget-friendly used sedan though not in a negative sense. However, many owners have reported ongoing transmission problems.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there have been 117 complaints filed concerning the 2019 Forte. Notably, 43 of those complaints specifically involve issues with the vehicle’s powertrain.
Along with two recalls, the NHTSA has also expressed safety concerns based on how the Forte’s rear side door performed during crash testing.
Purchasing a used sedan is supposed to save you money on the sticker price. Consumers negate those savings, though, if they buy one that constantly breaks down. Before spending your hard-earned money on a used car, do your research to make sure it’s reliable.