Best cars for long distances
In this article we tell you what criteria we think a good long-distance car should meet, as well as which models on the Dutch market stand out at the moment.
What should you look for when choosing a car for long distances?
A long car ride can be wonderfully relaxing – provided your car is equipped to drive long distances and offers comfort and convenience. We list a few aspects that (can) be decisive
Comfort
On long journeys, good seating position and comfort are essential. Seats with extensive adjustment options, lumbar support and possibly massage functions ensure that you stay fit throughout the ride. Sound insulation and smooth suspension and damping also make a difference
Consumption or range
Nobody likes to leave home with the idea that the car is in danger of stalling every few hundred kilometers because the tank or battery will be empty again. Fuel-engine cars are all about tank capacity, economy and fuel economy; electric cars are all about ample battery capacity, energy consumption and fast charging times.
Road handling and safety
Stable, quiet handling, predictable steering and essential driving assistance systems – think adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, among others – ensure that you can spend long periods of time relaxing behind the wheel.
Luggage space
Going on vacation or traveling for business: enough space for suitcases, bags or equipment makes the car suitable for more than just commuting.
Reliability and operating costs
You don’t want any worries on the road. A proven reliable model with manageable maintenance costs gives you peace of mind, especially when you get lots of miles.
The best cars for long distances, according to us
Volkswagen Passat Variant
The Volkswagen Passat Variant has been a popular choice among frequent drivers for many years. The latest generation offers plenty of interior space, luggage space of over 600 liters and a comfortable suspension. Engine-wise, there is a choice of efficient TSI gasoline engines and plug-in hybrids. Especially the version with 150 kW (204 hp) plug-in hybrid drive is ideal: powerful enough and suitable for short stretches of fully electric driving.
BMW 5 Series
If you want to combine long distances with premium comfort, you quickly arrive at the BMW 5 Series. This sedan (also available as a Touring) offers a quiet cabin, precise handling and powerful engines ranging from 135 kW (184 hp) gasoline engines to plug-in hybrid variants with more than 210 kW (286 hp) of system power. There is also an all-electric variant in the form of the BMW i5. The seats are widely adjustable and the digital cockpit makes travel extra relaxing.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is known for its refinement. The suspension effortlessly filters out bumps and the sound insulation is excellent. For long trips, the diesel versions are especially popular with business drivers, thanks to their low fuel consumption and range. But the gasoline and plug-in hybrid variants with outputs from 145 kW (197 hp) to over 230 kW (313 hp) are also ideal for relaxed driving.
Volvo XC90
Those who often travel with family or colleagues like to choose an SUV. The Volvo XC90 offers seven seats, generous luggage space and a high seating position. Long distances are comfortable thanks to the soft seats and extensive safety equipment. The plug-in hybrid version delivers up to 300 kW (408 hp) of system power and offers an electric range of more than 60 kilometers, useful in urban areas.
Toyota Corolla Touring Sports
For those looking in the middle class, the Toyota Corolla Touring Sports is an excellent option. The hybrid powertrain ensures low fuel consumption, ideal for frequent drivers. With 103 kW (140 hp) or 144 kW (196 hp) of system power, there is enough power to drive smoothly. Plus, Toyota is known for reliability, keeping running costs low.
Tesla Model S
For the long-distance driver who wants to drive all-electric, the Tesla Model S is still one of the best choices. With a battery offering a range of more than 600 kilometers and the extensive Supercharger network in Europe, long trips are no problem. The powertrain is powerful, ranging from over 300 kW (408 hp) to more than 500 kW (680 hp). In addition, the car offers plenty of luggage space, both in the front and rear.
Peugeot 5008
The Peugeot 5008 is a spacious MPV-like SUV that is ideal for families. The third row of seats makes it versatile and the luggage space is very generous. Comfortable seats, a clear i-Cockpit and efficient engines – gasoline or diesel – ensure that long trips are not a punishment. Consumption remains favorable and maintenance costs are manageable.
Why not small cars, sports cars or off-road vehicles?
Not every car is equally suitable for long trips. Compact city cars often lack the sound insulation and driving and seating comfort to cover hundreds of miles a day leisurely. They are designed for short(er) distances and use in and around town.
Sports cars are also not ideal: they are hard-suspended for optimal handling – at the expense of comfort – and consume more fuel. They also often offer little luggage space. The same goes for off-road cars built specifically for off-road use. They are robust, but on long highway trips less comfortable and often inefficient.
For everyone, the ideal car is a different
There is no such thing as the best car for long distances – it depends on your personal preferences. If you are mainly looking for lots of space, the Volkswagen Passat Variant and the Peugeot 5008 are excellent choices. For premium comfort, opt for the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class. With a large family, you are more likely to choose the Volvo XC90. For low running costs and reliability, the Toyota Corolla Touring Sports is ideal, while the Tesla Model S shows that electric driving is also great for long trips.
Whatever choice you make, always pay attention to comfort, consumption, luggage space, handling and reliability. Then you can be sure to arrive relaxed and rested even after many miles.