Best SUV for Travel: 7 Top Picks for Exciting 2025 Trips

Why Choosing the Right SUV Can Make or Break Your Road Trip

The best SUV for travel combines comfort, space, and reliability to turn long drives into memorable trips. Based on expert testing and real-world performance, here are the top travel-ready SUVs by category:

Quick Winners List:
– Best Overall: Honda CR-V (28-30 mpg, 10/10 rating)
– Best Midsize: Kia Telluride (8.4/10 rating, adult-friendly third row)
– Best Compact: Mazda CX-50 (spacious interior, premium feel)
– Best Budget: Chevrolet Trax ($21,795, 30 mpg combined)
– Best Luxury: BMW X7 (exceptional comfort scores)
– Best Hybrid: Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid (top-rated for 2024)

Road trips can be amazing or awful – and your SUV choice makes all the difference. Whether you’re hauling camping gear to national parks or driving cross-country with the family, the right vehicle needs to handle everything mile after mile.

Modern SUVs have evolved far beyond basic transportation. Today’s travel-focused models offer tri-zone climate control for passenger comfort, fold-flat seating for massive cargo flexibility, and advanced safety systems that reduce driver fatigue on long hauls.

The Toyota RAV4 dominates sales in 25 states, proving Americans trust SUVs for their daily drives. But popularity doesn’t always equal travel performance. The best road trip SUVs balance fuel efficiency (some hybrids hit 35+ mpg), interior space, and tech features that keep everyone happy during hour 8 of the drive.

Best suv for travel further reading:
– best long distance travel vehicle
– good rental cars for road trips
– kia carnival

What Makes an SUV a Travel Superstar?

Picture this: you’re eight hours into a cross-country trip, and your SUV still feels like a sanctuary rather than a prison on wheels. That’s the magic of choosing the best SUV for travel – it transforms long journeys from endurance tests into genuine trips.

At Car News 4 You, we’ve spent countless hours analyzing what separates weekend warriors from true travel champions. The difference isn’t just about horsepower or flashy features. It’s about the fundamentals that matter when you’re cruising down Interstate 80 at hour ten of your journey.

Ride comfort tops our list because nobody wants to arrive at their destination feeling like they’ve been riding a mechanical bull. The Honda CR-V earns a perfect 10/10 rating from experts precisely because it nails this balance. Meanwhile, the Kia Telluride scores an impressive 8.4/10, with reviewers consistently praising its upscale cabin and adult-friendly third-row seating.

Reliability becomes absolutely critical when you’re hundreds of miles from your trusted mechanic. The best travel SUVs have proven track records and extensive service networks nationwide.

Cargo capacity and fuel efficiency work hand in hand to define your travel experience. You need space for everyone’s gear without turning every gas station into a budget-busting pit stop. The Mazda CX-50 strikes this balance beautifully, earning praise for its “comfortable, spacious interior and premium feel” while delivering solid fuel economy.

Modern adaptive safety systems and all-wheel drive traction aren’t just nice-to-have features – they’re your co-pilots on challenging roads. These technologies reduce driver fatigue and keep you confident whether you’re navigating mountain passes or sudden weather changes.

Excellent infotainment systems become lifesavers when you’re keeping multiple passengers happy for hours on end. For deeper insights into selecting your perfect travel companion, our guide on the Best Long Distance Travel Vehicle covers additional considerations.

Key Features That Define Travel Excellence:
– Seating for 5-8 passengers with genuine adult comfort
– 25+ cubic feet of cargo space behind rear seats
– Highway fuel economy of 25+ mpg (30+ for compact SUVs)
– Standard advanced driver assistance systems
– Tri-zone climate control for personalized comfort
– Fold-flat rear seating for maximum cargo flexibility
– Towing capacity of 3,500+ pounds for trailers
– Quiet cabin engineering with minimal road noise
– Intuitive infotainment with wireless smartphone integration
– Reliable powertrain backed by strong nationwide service network

Seating & Comfort Essentials

The Subaru Outback earns the highest comfort score (82 out of 100) from Consumer Reports after “thousands of miles” of real-world testing. Ergonomic seats with power adjustment and proper lumbar support prevent the back pain that ruins trips.

Heated and ventilated seating and tri-zone climate control become practical necessities when crossing multiple climate zones. The Honda Pilot excels here, letting everyone find their perfect temperature.

Quiet cabin design becomes increasingly important as miles pile up. The Lincoln Navigator and Mercedes-Benz GLS use advanced sound-deadening materials to create almost library-quiet interiors.

Space & Storage Hacks

Smart storage solutions transform chaotic trips into organized bliss. The Honda Pilot’s fold-flat seating creates a completely flat load floor perfect for camping gear or moving supplies.

Look for under-floor storage compartments, door pockets large enough for water bottles, and center consoles that swallow tablets and chargers. Roof racks dramatically expand hauling capacity without sacrificing interior passenger space.

Safety First on Long Hauls

Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are your safety net when driver fatigue sets in. Essential features include automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist.

Adaptive cruise control maintains following distance automatically, reducing constant speed adjustments that cause fatigue. The Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ across all trim levels.

Lane-centering technology gently steers to keep you centered, dramatically reducing driver fatigue on long highway stretches.

MPG & Range Matters

Fuel efficiency directly impacts both your travel budget and journey interruptions. The Hyundai Tucson Hybrid delivers impressive fuel economy while maintaining space and capability for serious travel.

Improving from 20 mpg to 30 mpg saves approximately $500 over 10,000 miles of driving. Hybrid powertrains often pay for themselves through fuel savings while reducing environmental impact.

Range matters as much as pure efficiency. The Hyundai Palisade can travel 414 miles per tank, while the Toyota Sienna Hybrid extends range to 648 miles. The Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid achieves up to 35 EPA-estimated MPG – remarkable for a three-row SUV.

The Best SUV for Travel – Category Winners

Finding the best SUV for travel means understanding what works in real-world conditions. After analyzing expert reviews and testing data, we’ve identified clear winners in each category – vehicles that excel at the specific challenges of long-distance travel while delivering the reliability you need when you’re hundreds of miles from home.

These aren’t just the most popular SUVs on the market. They’re the ones that keep passengers comfortable during hour eight of your drive, handle mountain passes with confidence, and provide the cargo space for everything from camping gear to college dorm furniture.

Best Compact SUV for Travel – City-Sized Trip Machine

The Honda CR-V stands out as our top compact choice, earning a perfect 10/10 rating from automotive experts. What makes it special isn’t just the EPA-estimated 28-30 mpg combined – it’s how the CR-V feels bigger than its footprint suggests.

Step inside and you’ll find 39.3 cubic feet of cargo space that easily swallows weekend gear. The ride quality stays composed whether you’re cruising highways or navigating winding mountain roads. Most importantly, the cabin remains quiet enough for comfortable conversations even at highway speeds.

The Mazda CX-50 earns our runner-up spot with an impressive 8.1/10 expert rating. Mazda’s attention to interior materials creates what reviewers call a “comfortable, spacious interior and premium feel” – the kind of upscale experience you’d expect from luxury SUVs. The available hybrid variant adds excellent fuel efficiency to an already compelling package.

For budget-conscious travelers, the Chevrolet Trax proves you don’t need to spend big for travel capability. Starting at just $21,795 with 30 mpg combined, the redesigned Trax earns a perfect 10/10 rating from experts – a dramatic improvement that makes it a genuine travel contender.

Best Midsize SUV for Travel

The Kia Telluride dominates this category with an 8.4/10 expert rating and something most three-row SUVs can’t deliver – genuinely adult-friendly third-row seating. Starting around $36,000, it offers luxury-level features at a mainstream price.

What sets the Telluride apart is its thoughtful design. The second-row captain’s chairs provide 42.7 inches of legroom – more spacious than many luxury sedans. The upscale cabin materials and 291-horsepower V6 engine create an experience that feels much more expensive than the price tag suggests.

The Hyundai Palisade shares the Telluride’s excellent foundation while offering a more conservative design approach. Both vehicles deliver exceptional value, with the Palisade’s front-wheel-drive configuration providing an impressive 414-mile driving range per tank.

For travelers who venture beyond pavement, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L adds legitimate 4WD capability without sacrificing on-road comfort. Starting around $41,000, it’s perfect for families who want the flexibility to explore off-road destinations.

Best Full-Size SUV for Travel – Ultimate People & Gear Carrier

When maximum space is non-negotiable, the Chevrolet Suburban reigns supreme. Starting around $62,000, it seats up to nine passengers and tows 7,400 pounds – making it ideal for hauling boats or large trailers to your destination.

The Suburban’s 355-horsepower V8 provides effortless highway cruising, while the smooth ride quality keeps passengers comfortable even on rough roads. Used examples starting in the mid-$40K range make this capability more accessible for budget-conscious families.

The Ford Expedition offers similar capability with 400 horsepower and an impressive 9,600-pound towing capacity. At $62,000 new or around $36,000 used, it provides excellent value for families needing maximum space and capability.

The Nissan Armada rounds out this category with 425 horsepower and 8,500-pound towing capacity. Starting at $56,500 new or around $25,000 used, it delivers strong performance at competitive pricing.

Best Hybrid/Electric SUV for Travel

The Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid earns our top rating for 2024 by combining three-row seating with up to 35 mpg highway efficiency. The hybrid powertrain delivers 362 total system horsepower while achieving fuel economy that rivals compact cars.

With a 648-mile driving range, the Grand Highlander Hybrid means fewer fuel stops and more time enjoying your destination. Starting around $41,000, it represents outstanding value for families who prioritize efficiency without sacrificing space.

The Kia EV9 brings electric capability to three-row travel with a perfect 10/10 rating and 230-304 miles of range depending on configuration. Starting at $56,395, it offers impressive charging speeds that make electric road trips increasingly practical.

For smaller families, the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid delivers excellent fuel economy with a comprehensive suite of driver aids and upscale interior appointments. It’s particularly well-suited for couples or small families who prioritize efficiency over maximum seating capacity.

For detailed hybrid comparisons, check out our guide on the Best Hybrid SUV for Highway Driving.

Best Luxury SUV for Travel

The BMW X7 combines impressive interior space with BMW’s renowned driving dynamics. Interior comfort scores of 9.0/10 reflect the exceptional attention to passenger comfort, while the available massaging seats provide spa-like relaxation during long drives.

The Genesis GV80 offers exceptional value in the luxury segment, delivering an upscale cabin and advanced safety suite at competitive pricing. The rear seats provide a particularly luxurious experience for passengers on extended trips.

The Volvo XC90 brings Scandinavian comfort to the luxury travel equation. Starting around $60,000 new or $30,000 used, it offers 247-horsepower mild-hybrid power and 5,000-pound towing capacity. Volvo’s reputation for safety and comfort makes it an excellent choice for long-distance family trips.

Tech, Safety & Efficiency Upgrades You’ll Appreciate on Mile 500

Nothing tests your SUV’s tech quite like hour five of a cross-country drive. That’s when you find whether your best SUV for travel really has the features that matter.

The game-changers start with large touchscreens – 10+ inches that make navigation readable from the driver’s seat. The Honda Pilot’s system shines with intuitive layout and quick response times, making climate adjustments easy without extended attention from the road.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto eliminate cable tangles around your center console. Pair this with wireless charging pads, and your phone stays powered and connected effortlessly. The Kia Telluride handles this setup beautifully, with charging areas that fit modern phones.

Built-in Wi-Fi hotspots keep everyone connected even in areas where cell towers are scarce. Your passengers can stream movies, kids stay entertained, and you get real-time traffic updates when needed most.

USB-C ports throughout the cabin solve eternal “my tablet is dead” complaints from the back seat. Modern families travel with more devices than a small electronics store, and the best travel SUVs acknowledge this with charging options for every row.

Lane-centering technology becomes your best friend on long, straight highway stretches. It gently keeps you centered in your lane, reducing constant micro-corrections that create fatigue over hundreds of miles. The Genesis GV80 and BMW X7 offer sophisticated systems that feel natural rather than intrusive.

Over-the-air updates mean your SUV gets smarter over time. Navigation maps stay current, and new features can appear without dealer visits.

For wireless connectivity security guidance, cybersecurity experts provide helpful information in this Scientific research on Bluetooth technology from the Department of Homeland Security.

Fuel-Saving Road-Trip Tips

Eco drive modes optimize engine and transmission behavior for maximum efficiency. We’ve consistently seen 10-15% improvements in fuel economy simply by selecting eco mode for highway cruising.

Proper tire pressure makes a bigger difference than most realize. Under-inflated tires create rolling resistance that can cost 3-4 mpg. Check pressures when tires are cold, before starting your trip.

Lightweight packing saves fuel and improves handling. Every 100 pounds of extra weight reduces fuel economy by 1-2%. Consider shipping heavy items ahead or buying supplies at your destination.

Must-Have Gadgets & Apps

Roadside assistance apps provide peace of mind in remote areas. Many automakers include connected services that automatically call for help after accidents or breakdowns.

Trip planning apps optimize routes for fuel stops, charging stations, and points of interest. Google Maps and Waze integrate real-time traffic data to avoid construction delays.

Streaming audio services keep passengers entertained during long stretches. Download content before departing to avoid burning cellular data in areas with poor coverage.

Preparing Your SUV for a Cross-Country Trip

Nothing ruins a dream road trip faster than your SUV breaking down 200 miles from nowhere. The best SUV for travel becomes the worst when you’re stranded waiting for an expensive tow truck.

Smart preparation starts at least one week before departure, giving you time to fix problems without panic. Even reliable models like the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander need attention before tackling cross-country miles.

Your pre-trip inspection should cover essentials that keep you moving safely. Check all fluid levels including oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Inspect tire condition for proper pressure, adequate tread depth, and sidewall cracks. Test your brake feel – any grinding, squealing, or soft pedal needs immediate attention.

Don’t forget battery terminals and charge level, especially if your SUV sits unused for days. A clean air filter helps engine performance, while a well-stocked emergency kit provides peace of mind in remote areas.

Oil changes should happen if you’re within 1,000 miles of your service interval. Fresh oil handles long-distance driving stress better. Similarly, tire rotation makes sense if it’s been more than 5,000 miles since last service.

DIY Checklist vs. Professional Service

You can handle basic checks without special tools. Fluid levels are easy to verify using dipsticks and reservoir markings. Tire inspection takes minutes – look for uneven wear, embedded nails, or sidewall bulges.

Light testing ensures other drivers can see your intentions. Have someone help check brake lights, turn signals, and hazard flashers. Emergency kit verification means confirming you have jumper cables, basic tools, first aid supplies, and emergency contacts.

However, some checks require professional expertise. Brake system inspection involves components you can’t easily see, while wheel alignment problems aren’t obvious until they cause tire wear. Air conditioning performance testing ensures your system can handle desert heat.

If your SUV is approaching a major service milestone (30K, 60K, or 90K miles), complete it before departure rather than gambling on making it home first.

Packing Like a Pro

Smart packing affects handling, braking, and fuel economy. Weight distribution impacts your SUV’s balance in ways that become obvious after hours of driving.

Place heavy items low and centered, ideally over the rear axle. Avoid overloading roof racks, which raise your center of gravity and hurt fuel economy and stability.

Soft bags conform to irregular spaces better than rigid suitcases, maximizing every cubic inch. Cooler placement deserves attention since you’ll access it frequently – keep drinks near the tailgate, separate from items you won’t need until arrival.

Every 100 pounds of extra weight costs 1-2 mpg in fuel economy. Consider shipping heavy items ahead rather than hauling everything across the country.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best SUV for Travel

Which SUV offers the most comfort for long drives?

When you’re facing hour eight of a cross-country drive, comfort becomes everything. The Subaru Outback actually leads all vehicles with an impressive comfort score of 82 out of 100 from Consumer Reports – proving that sometimes the best comfort comes from unexpected places.

Among traditional SUVs, the Honda Pilot stands out as our comfort champion. Its tri-zone climate control keeps everyone happy regardless of seating position, while the smooth ride quality absorbs road imperfections that would jar passengers in lesser vehicles. The Pilot comfortably seats eight people without making anyone feel cramped.

For those wanting maximum luxury, the Lincoln Navigator provides an incredible 40.9 inches of third-row legroom – more spacious than most first-class airline seats. If you’re looking at midsize options, the Jeep Wagoneer offers 42.7 inches of second-row legroom, which is more generous than any other vehicle we’ve tested.

The key is understanding that comfort goes beyond just seat cushioning. The best SUV for travel combines ergonomic seating, quiet cabins that reduce fatigue, and climate systems that keep everyone comfortable throughout the journey.

How important is fuel economy on a road-trip SUV?

Fuel economy impacts your wallet and your travel experience more than most people realize. We’ve crunched the numbers: improving from 20 mpg to 30 mpg saves approximately $500 over 10,000 miles of driving at current fuel prices. For families who love exploring, that’s real money that could go toward better hotels or activities.

But it’s not just about saving money – it’s about convenience and range. The Toyota Sienna Hybrid can travel an impressive 648 miles per tank, while the Hyundai Palisade in front-wheel-drive configuration reaches 414 miles between fill-ups. Fewer fuel stops mean more time enjoying scenic overlooks and less time searching for gas stations in unfamiliar territory.

Hybrid powertrains often provide the sweet spot for travel. The Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid delivers up to 35 mpg while maintaining three-row seating and 362 total system horsepower. You’re not sacrificing capability for efficiency – you’re getting both.

Think about it this way: better fuel economy means you can explore that remote national park without constantly worrying about finding the next gas station.

Do I really need AWD or 4WD for travel?

This question comes up constantly, and the honest answer is: it depends on where you’re going and when. All-wheel drive provides valuable traction in the varied conditions you’ll encounter while exploring – from sudden mountain weather changes to those unpaved campground roads that looked easier on the map.

Consider AWD if you frequently travel to mountainous areas where weather can change quickly, encounter winter conditions during your travels, plan to visit national parks with unpaved access roads, or simply want extra confidence in unexpected situations. The additional cost (typically $1,800-$2,000) and slight fuel economy penalty often prove worthwhile for the added capability and peace of mind.

However, front-wheel drive remains perfectly adequate for most highway travel and paved destinations. The Hyundai Palisade FWD actually offers better fuel economy and longer range than its AWD counterpart – sometimes simpler is better.

Here’s our practical advice: if you’re mostly sticking to interstates and established tourist destinations, save your money and go with front-wheel drive. But if your idea of the perfect trip involves exploring off the beaten path, AWD becomes a valuable safety net that can turn a potential disaster into just another trip story.

Conclusion

Finding the best SUV for travel comes down to matching your specific needs with the right combination of comfort, space, and reliability. After analyzing hundreds of models and real-world performance data, we’ve identified clear winners that excel at turning long drives into memorable trips.

The Honda CR-V stands out as our top compact choice, earning perfect 10/10 ratings while delivering 30 mpg efficiency that keeps your travel budget in check. For families needing more space, the Kia Telluride dominates the midsize segment with genuinely adult-friendly third-row seating and luxury features at mainstream prices starting around $36,000.

When you need maximum hauling power, the Chevrolet Suburban provides best space and 7,400-pound towing capacity – perfect for bringing boats or trailers along on your trips. Starting around $62,000 new or mid-$40K used, it delivers serious capability for serious travelers.

The hybrid revolution is reshaping what’s possible in travel SUVs. The Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid proves you can have your cake and eat it too, delivering 35 mpg efficiency with three-row seating and 362 horsepower. Meanwhile, the Kia EV9 shows that electric SUVs are ready for family road trips with over 300 miles of range and rapid charging capabilities.

At Car News 4 You, we know that great trips start with great vehicles. Whether you’re following racing leagues across the country or exploring luxury sports destinations, the right SUV becomes part of the trip rather than just transportation. The intersection of automotive innovation and real-world performance creates vehicles that don’t just get you there – they make the journey as exciting as the destination.

The road is calling, and with the right SUV, you’re ready to answer. Safe travels, and remember that every great trip begins with choosing the vehicle that matches your dreams.

For even more travel inspiration beyond the SUV category, check out our comprehensive guide to the Best Cars for Road Trips.