Road trips demand vehicles that combine comfort, reliability, versatility, and enough tech to keep you entertained and safe for hours on end. SUVs have long been favored for these qualities, offering more space than sedans, better ground clearance, and a strong sense of capability both on highways and on rougher terrains.
In recent years, automakers have pushed boundaries, introducing SUVs that aren’t just practical, they make long journeys pleasurable and often luxurious. From powerful engines to advanced infotainment systems, these vehicles redefine what it means to be a road trip companion.
Choosing the perfect SUV for a road trip isn’t just about horsepower or off-road capability. It’s also about how well the vehicle fits your lifestyle and travel style. Some travelers prioritize cargo space for camping gear or luggage, while others seek premium comfort and seating for family or friends.
Then there’s fuel efficiency, important for long stretches between gas stations, and of course, safety features to help protect everyone on board during extended drives. Today’s new SUVs address these needs in innovative ways, blending practicality with style and technology.
This list highlights twelve new SUVs that excel as road trip vehicles, each with unique features and strengths. These models come from different segments, from midsize crossovers to larger luxury SUVs, showing how broad the appeal of road trip-ready SUVs really is.
Whether you want a rugged adventure partner, a family hauler with smart technology, or a sophisticated ride with plush interiors, there’s something here for you. What they all share is an ability to make long-distance travel not just doable but truly enjoyable.
As you read through the details of these twelve SUVs, you’ll get a sense of why they stand out. They aren’t just machines; they’re well-thought-out travel companions designed to handle miles of highway, winding mountain roads, and the unexpected challenges of a long trip.
Comfort, technology, safety, and versatility form the core of their appeal. Let’s get started and see which new SUVs rise to the top as the royalty of the road trip.
1. Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander continues to stand out as one of the most balanced SUVs for road trips. Its mix of practicality, comfort, and efficiency makes it a logical choice for families and solo adventurers alike. The Highlander offers three rows of seating, which is especially useful for those traveling with larger groups.
Its second-row captain’s chairs (on some trims) provide a more luxurious experience, while the third row can accommodate kids or smaller adults when necessary. In terms of visibility and seating comfort, the Highlander is among the top in its class, helping reduce the strain of long hours on the road.
Performance-wise, the Highlander offers either a traditional V6 engine or a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain. The V6 delivers smooth acceleration and a stable feel on the highway, while the hybrid variant gives road-trippers the bonus of excellent gas mileage, something that can make a real difference on cross-country drives.
Handling is predictable and soft enough to make long-distance driving comfortable without sacrificing control. Whether you’re coasting along open freeways or navigating curvy mountain roads, the Highlander maintains its composure.
The Highlander also features an easy-to-use infotainment system with standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available Wi-Fi connectivity, so passengers can stream music or stay connected even in remote areas.
With the rear rows folded flat, the Highlander offers plenty of space for luggage, sports gear, or even a weekend’s worth of camping supplies. Thoughtful features like in-floor storage, USB charging in all rows, and an available hands-free liftgate enhance day-to-day use and road trip convenience. It’s a vehicle that doesn’t try too hard to be flashy, but excels in all the ways that matter on a long drive.
2. Ford Bronco Sport
The Ford Bronco Sport is a compact SUV that packs a surprising amount of road trip utility into its rugged design. While it’s not the full-sized Bronco, it inherits much of the adventurous DNA from its larger sibling.
Built for drivers who enjoy a combination of city commuting and weekend trail escapes, it fits perfectly into the lifestyle of those who want flexibility without sacrificing comfort or capability. Its boxy silhouette also maximizes headroom and cargo space, adding to its practical appeal.
Where the Bronco Sport really shines is in its off-road readiness. Most trims come standard with all-wheel drive and selectable terrain modes via Ford’s “GOAT” (Goes Over Any Terrain) system. These features come in handy not only for dirt paths and trails but also for rain-soaked highways and snowy mountain passes.
The suspension is tuned for both ruggedness and comfort, so the vehicle doesn’t feel harsh on paved roads. If your road trips tend to lead to national parks or hidden campsites, this SUV can handle the approach with confidence.
The cabin is built with a purpose-driven mindset. Surfaces are easy to clean, and the upholstery in certain trims is made to handle mud, sand, and spills. This kind of durability doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort, though. The seats are well-padded, and the layout puts controls within easy reach of the driver.
Rear-seat passengers get decent legroom for a compact SUV, and there are multiple power outlets and USB ports to keep devices charged. A large, upright windshield also offers excellent outward visibility, adding to driver comfort on long journeys.
The Bronco Sport also includes several clever features that road trippers will appreciate. The cargo hold includes a flip-up rear glass window for quick access and integrated floodlights on the liftgate for setting up camp at night. You also get under-seat storage bins, MOLLE straps on seatbacks for gear organization, and even rubberized flooring in certain trims. These are thoughtful, adventure-focused touches that make it easier to pack, access, and clean up after a road trip.
3. Kia Telluride
The Kia Telluride has rapidly become a top choice for families and road trip lovers alike. Its spacious three-row interior and handsome styling have helped it gain attention in a crowded SUV market, but its real value is in how well it handles life on the road.
The cabin is among the roomiest in the midsize SUV class, with second-row legroom that rivals much larger vehicles. Even adults can sit comfortably in the third row, which isn’t always the case in similar-sized models. Quality materials and an upscale design make it feel more luxurious than its price suggests.
Powering the Telluride is a naturally aspirated V6 engine, which offers smooth, consistent performance during long stretches of highway driving. It’s not a racecar, but its acceleration is more than adequate for merging and overtaking.
Perhaps more importantly, the suspension is finely tuned to handle long-distance comfort. Potholes and uneven pavement are absorbed with ease, making it easier for both the driver and passengers to enjoy the ride without fatigue setting in too quickly. For those who might encounter varying terrain on their travels, all-wheel drive is available on most trims.
Technology integration is another strong point. Even the base models come with a large touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and several USB ports spread throughout all three rows.
Upper trims offer extras like a head-up display, 360-degree camera, and a Harman Kardon sound system, all of which elevate the driving and riding experience. Kia’s “Driver Talk” intercom system allows the front-seat passengers to communicate easily with those in the rear, a small but incredibly useful feature during long trips with kids.
Storage space is generous and well-configured. Behind the third row, there’s enough room for a few suitcases or travel bags, and folding down the third and second rows opens up a massive cargo area for bikes, tents, or other gear.
Additionally, the Telluride includes thoughtful small storage solutions like deep door pockets and a large center console. These kinds of details may not seem critical, but they make the SUV feel more tailored to travelers who spend a lot of time on the move.
4. Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback has built its reputation on reliability, comfort, and versatility, making it one of the most road–trip–friendly vehicles you can buy.
Though it shares some traits with wagons, the Outback’s raised ride height, standard all-wheel drive, and rugged body cladding give it true SUV credentials. What sets it apart from traditional crossovers is how seamlessly it shifts from urban commuter to backcountry explorer. For travelers who need flexibility without switching vehicles, this is a major win.
Inside, the Outback offers a surprisingly spacious cabin with high-quality materials and smart ergonomics. The front seats are designed for comfort on long hauls, and the rear seats recline slightly to offer better support for passengers.
There’s ample headroom and legroom throughout, making it a good fit for taller travelers or families with growing teens. Visibility is excellent from all angles, a trait Subaru has carefully maintained across its lineup to help reduce blind spots and improve safety.
The Outback’s available turbocharged engine provides extra power for those who frequently drive in hilly or mountainous areas. While the base engine is adequate for most, the turbo makes passing on two-lane highways easier and gives a more responsive feel under load.
Fuel economy remains one of the Outback’s strong points, particularly with the standard engine, and this makes a real difference on longer trips. Its smooth and composed ride is aided by a suspension that handles both potholes and gravel with equal poise.
The cargo area is wide, low, and easy to access, ideal for loading up gear for extended adventures. Roof rails with built-in crossbars make it easy to mount cargo boxes, kayaks, or bikes.
Subaru also includes standard driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control and lane centering, which are incredibly useful during long hours behind the wheel. The Subaru Outback is a solid mix of comfort, capability, and practicality for those who take road tripping seriously.
5. Volkswagen Atlas
The Volkswagen Atlas is VW’s answer to the family SUV market, and it stands out primarily because of how spacious and comfortable it is. Designed with American road trips in mind, the Atlas seats up to seven passengers with more legroom in the third row than many of its competitors.
Whether you’re driving across town or across the country, having that extra room makes a significant difference in reducing complaints from the back seats. The upright driving position and wide windows also make it easy to enjoy the scenery and stay alert during longer hauls.
Under the hood, the Atlas offers two engine choices: a turbocharged four-cylinder and a more powerful V6. While the four-cylinder is adequate for most, the V6 provides better passing power and towing capability, useful if you’re bringing along a trailer or boat.
Road noise is well controlled, and the suspension does a good job of soaking up imperfections in the pavement. That smoothness translates to reduced fatigue on longer trips, particularly when the vehicle is full of passengers and gear.
Volkswagen’s interior layout is clean and intuitive, with easy-to-read displays and physical buttons for climate control, something that many road trippers prefer over touch-only systems. The infotainment system is quick to respond, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across all trims.
6. Hyundai Palisade
The Hyundai Palisade has quickly risen to the top of the three-row SUV segment, thanks to its refined ride quality, upscale cabin, and generous standard features. Hyundai designed the Palisade with long-distance comfort in mind, and it shows from the first moment you settle into the driver’s seat.
With its airy cabin, wide seats, and thoughtful ergonomics, it’s clear this SUV was built to handle family road trips, group getaways, or long solo drives without compromise. Every seat in the house feels premium, especially in higher trims, and even base models offer impressive comfort.
The standard V6 engine provides enough power for confident highway cruising and hills without feeling underpowered. While it doesn’t strive to be a performance SUV, the Palisade’s ride is smooth and quiet, with little wind or road noise even at higher speeds.
Its eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and doesn’t hunt for gears on long inclines, which helps with fuel efficiency and driver confidence. All-wheel drive is available for those expecting to travel through snow, mud, or more remote areas, making it versatile across different climates and terrains.
On the technology side, the Palisade is packed with features that are especially valuable for road trippers. It includes a large touchscreen display with intuitive controls, and smartphone integration comes standard.
Upper trims add niceties like in-car intercoms, quiet mode for rear passengers, ventilated seats, and a surround-view camera system. These comfort and convenience features help reduce stress during long hauls, making the journey smoother and more enjoyable for everyone on board.
Storage is another strong point, with ample room behind the third row and multiple ways to configure the cargo space depending on how many people are coming along. Hyundai also integrated small features that make a big difference: cubbies for snacks and chargers, USB ports for each row, and second-row seats that slide and fold with minimal effort.
7. Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is one of the most iconic midsize SUVs available, and its recent redesign has only solidified its position as a go-to vehicle for road trippers who want to combine rugged ability with modern refinement.
Unlike some competitors that skew toward luxury or off-road performance exclusively, the Grand Cherokee strikes a balance between the two.
The result is a vehicle that can handle everything from cross-country highway stretches to winding mountain roads and gravel trails. It also offers a two-row or optional three-row configuration (Grand Cherokee L), providing flexibility based on passenger needs.
Powertrain options are strong, starting with a dependable V6 and extending up to plug-in hybrid and V8 options, depending on the trim. The standard V6 is enough for most road trippers, offering a comfortable cruising experience with smooth power delivery and solid fuel economy for a vehicle of its size.
If towing is a priority, the Grand Cherokee delivers up to 7,200 pounds of towing capacity, which is excellent for pulling a small camper, trailer, or even watercraft. The suspension is comfortable enough for long-distance rides but still sturdy when the pavement ends.
Inside, the Grand Cherokee surprises many with its upscale materials and cabin layout. Even the base trims feel premium, with soft-touch surfaces, available leather, and tech-savvy instrument panels. The higher trims introduce luxury features like massaging seats, panoramic sunroofs, and ambient lighting, which make the cabin feel more like a mobile living room.
Sound insulation is excellent, and the available air suspension allows for adjustments in ride height that enhance both comfort and capability, an appreciated bonus when dealing with different terrains.
Technology and safety are well represented, with adaptive cruise control, lane assist, blind spot detection, and a top-tier infotainment system that includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Multiple charging options and rear-seat media screens (available on higher trims) help passengers stay occupied and connected throughout the trip.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is ideal for road trippers who want luxury and technology without giving up capability, especially when venturing off the beaten path is part of the plan.
8. Chevrolet Tahoe
The Chevrolet Tahoe is one of the best-known full-size SUVs in the U.S., and for good reason. It’s big, it’s powerful, and it can carry both people and gear over long distances with ease.
Under the hood, the Tahoe offers a few engine options, including two V8s and a turbo-diesel inline-six. The diesel stands out for its long-range efficiency, which can save both money and time by reducing fuel stops.
Meanwhile, the V8s offer strong towing capabilities and confident acceleration, especially useful when merging onto highways or climbing steep grades. The Tahoe handles surprisingly well for its size, with optional magnetic ride control and air suspension helping to smooth out rough roads and improve comfort.
Inside, the Tahoe is a haven for road trippers. The three-row layout offers spacious seating for up to eight passengers, and even the third row is roomy enough for adults on longer trips. Storage is abundant throughout the cabin, with plenty of space for snacks, electronics, bags, and more.
The infotainment system includes a large touchscreen, smartphone integration, and voice control, all designed to keep the driver connected without distraction. Rear-seat entertainment screens and available Wi-Fi can also help keep younger passengers entertained.
Cargo capacity is where the Tahoe really shines. With all rows up, it still provides useful trunk space, and folding down the third and second rows reveals a cavernous area for luggage, camping gear, or sports equipment.
There’s also a power-sliding center console that creates hidden storage for valuables or additional space for road trip necessities. With a strong mix of power, comfort, and flexibility, the Chevrolet Tahoe is built to go the distance in every sense of the word.
9. Mazda CX-9
The Mazda CX-9 offers a unique twist on the road trip SUV, combining the style and driving dynamics of a luxury crossover with the practicality of a family hauler. It’s aimed at those who enjoy driving just as much as they enjoy arriving at the destination.
With seating for up to seven passengers and a finely tuned suspension, the CX-9 feels refined on the highway, composed in the city, and agile enough for winding scenic routes. It’s not a brute-force SUV, but a graceful and quiet one that prioritizes quality over quantity.
The heart of the CX-9 is its turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which delivers surprising torque and quick acceleration, even with a full load of passengers.
While it may not match the raw power of a V6, the turbocharged setup is both responsive and efficient. The vehicle handles better than most in its class, with light steering, balanced chassis dynamics, and well-damped road feedback. On long drives, these characteristics contribute to a more relaxed, enjoyable experience behind the wheel.
Inside, the cabin is perhaps Mazda’s strongest selling point. Soft-touch materials, stitched leather surfaces, and a minimalist design make the interior feel much more expensive than its price tag would suggest.
The seats are designed with long-distance comfort in mind, and while the third row is best for children or shorter trips, the first two rows offer plenty of space. The quietness of the cabin helps everyone settle in for the journey, with minimal intrusion from wind or engine noise.
Tech features include a user-friendly infotainment interface, head-up display (on upper trims), premium Bose sound system, and wireless phone charging. Mazda also includes a robust set of safety tools, such as adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and lane departure warning.
10. Nissan Pathfinder
The Nissan Pathfinder has evolved over the years from a rugged off-roader to a more refined family SUV, but its road trip potential has only grown stronger. The latest generation focuses on providing a quiet, comfortable, and tech-filled environment, with plenty of space and capability for cross-country travel.
Whether you’re loading up the kids for a trip to the beach or heading into the mountains with friends, the Pathfinder offers the right mix of room, ride quality, and power.
The Pathfinder is powered by a strong V6 engine paired with a new nine-speed automatic transmission, replacing the older CVT found in previous models.
This gives the SUV smoother shifting, better acceleration, and a more engaging driving experience. It handles well on highways and offers a stable, planted feel on long stretches. The ride quality is also improved, with better insulation and suspension tuning that keeps road noise and vibrations to a minimum.
Inside, the Pathfinder is built for family use and long-distance comfort. It features three rows of seats, with available captain’s chairs in the second row and a third row that can now better accommodate adult passengers.
The seats are supportive and comfortable, especially in the front, and there are plenty of cup holders, storage bins, and USB ports scattered throughout the cabin. With available tri-zone climate control, rear-seat passengers can adjust their comfort independently, which helps keep everyone happy on longer journeys.
Cargo space is competitive, with room behind the third row for daily essentials and easy expansion when the rear seats are folded flat. Tech features like a large touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Nissan’s ProPILOT Assist make driving more convenient and less stressful.
Optional features like a panoramic sunroof and premium audio system further enhance the road trip experience. The Nissan Pathfinder offers a well-rounded blend of comfort, technology, and all-weather readiness that makes it a smart pick for modern travelers.
11. Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot is a standout choice for those who want a dependable and versatile SUV for extended travels. With three rows of seating, it manages to offer space and comfort for up to eight passengers, making it ideal for families or groups.
The second row often comes with a sliding bench (or optional captain’s chairs) which makes accessing the third row easier and gives children or adults better comfort.
Materials throughout the cabin have improved in recent years, with soft touches and durable surfaces that feel well suited to many miles on the road. The seating position gives a commanding view of traffic and road ahead, helping drivers feel confident even on long highway stints.
Under the hood, the Honda Pilot uses a V6 engine that delivers smooth and responsive power. It isn’t a brute powerhouse, but the performance is plenty for merged highway traffic and towing needs. Road trips often mean fully loaded vehicles, and the Pilot handles with composure even when carrying passengers and luggage.
The ride quality is tuned for comfort, minimizing jolts from pavement imperfections. Steering is balanced and predictable, which helps reduce driver fatigue when the miles add up. While not marketed as an off‑roader, the available all‑wheel‑drive version offers added reassurance in rain or light snow.
Technology in the Pilot has gradually become more sophisticated, and for road trips this bears out with features that make a difference. The infotainment screen is easy to reach and read, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto keep smartphone navigation and media integration seamless.
Cargo space in the Pilot is generous, though folding the third row is recommended for larger luggage loads. With the seats up, you still have enough room for bags and gear; fold the third row and you gain a much larger flat load floor.
The versatility of the seating and storage arrangement means the Pilot can transition from everyday use to weekend getaway vehicle without much compromise. When you factor in Honda’s reputation for reliability and low maintenance, the Pilot becomes an appealing long‑haul partner that won’t surprise you with unwanted downtime.
12. Mercedes‑Benz GLE
The Mercedes‑Benz GLE is a luxury SUV that offers road trippers a premium experience without sacrificing the utility required for long drives. From the moment you enter, you’re greeted by high‑quality materials, comfortable multi‑way adjustable seats, and a cabin designed to reduce fatigue and promote comfort over extensive travel.
Visibility is strong, and the cabin remains quiet even at highway speeds, allowing conversation or music to take precedence over road noise or wind. Passengers in the rear enjoy similar levels of comfort, with ample legroom and supportive seating.
Performance is a key element of the GLE’s appeal. It offers a variety of engine options ranging from six‑cylinder turbos to potent V8s, and in many markets, a plug‑in hybrid option as well. Regardless of the powertrain chosen, the ride quality remains outstanding thanks to the adaptive air suspension, which smooths out bumps and maintains composure.
On the tech front, the GLE is equipped with a sophisticated infotainment system that includes a large central display, digital instrument cluster, voice control, and augmented reality navigation in some versions.
Storage is generous for a luxury SUV and can be expanded thanks to folding rear seats. While it may not match the cargo volume of some full‑size non‑luxury SUVs, the GLE’s balance of utility and refinement makes it ideal for travellers who don’t want to compromise on either comfort or capability.
Whether you’re hauling luggage for a family trip or packing gear for an outdoor adventure, the GLE offers both the space and the sophistication needed to make the journey as enjoyable as the destination.
