India is a land of breathtaking road trips — from the snow-covered roads of Himachal Pradesh to the scenic beaches of Goa and the deserts of Rajasthan. But the real success of any journey depends on one key choice: the car you drive.
A good road trip car should offer comfort, safety, fuel efficiency, and reliability — because when you’re driving hundreds or even thousands of kilometres, your vehicle becomes your travel companion.
In this guide, we’ve shortlisted the 8 best cars for long road trips in India that guarantee smooth rides, impressive mileage, and the ability to handle every type of Indian road — from highways to mountain passes.
Mahindra Scorpio N
The Mahindra Scorpio N has redefined the Indian SUV segment. It’s bold, powerful, and modern — the perfect blend of comfort and toughness for long-distance driving.
Key Features
- Engines: 2.0L Turbo Petrol / 2.2L Diesel
- Transmission: Manual & Automatic
- Mileage: 14–16 km/l
- Seating: 7-seater
The Scorpio N handles rough terrains and mountain roads effortlessly. With features like multiple drive modes (Zip, Zap, Zoom), a comfortable suspension, and advanced safety systems, it’s ideal for long road trips in India, especially if your journey involves hilly or uneven routes.
Its premium interior, smooth gear shifts, and commanding view of the road make every drive enjoyable — whether you’re travelling from Chandigarh to Manali or across the golden deserts of Rajasthan.
Toyota Fortuner
If you’re looking for something luxurious and rugged at the same time, the Toyota Fortuner is one of the most reliable SUVs ever made for Indian roads.
Why the Fortuner Stands Out
- Engine: 2.8L Diesel
- Mileage: 10–14 km/l
- Drive Options: 4×2 & 4×4
- Transmission: Automatic & Manual
The Fortuner’s powerful engine and exceptional build quality make it perfect for long-distance travel and off-road adventures. Its comfortable cabin, high ground clearance, and Toyota’s reliability ensure peace of mind, even on challenging terrains.
Whether you’re driving through the curvy hills of Uttarakhand or the highways of Gujarat, the Fortuner gives a premium and commanding feel every time you take the wheel.
Mahindra Thar
When it comes to raw adventure and pure off-road thrill, the Mahindra Thar is unbeatable. It’s designed for people who love exploring less-travelled routes.
Top Highlights
- 4×4 drivetrain with locking differentials
- High ground clearance for rough roads
- Convertible and hard-top variants available
- Mileage: 15–16 km/l (Diesel)
The Thar shines on offbeat destinations like Spiti Valley, Leh, or the Rann of Kutch. It’s not built for luxury, but for thrill and freedom. The improved comfort and features in the latest version make it more practical for long drives than ever before.
If adventure is your style, the Thar is your perfect partner.
Toyota Innova Hycross
The Toyota Innova Hycross is the perfect car for family road trips. It combines comfort, space, and hybrid efficiency — making it one of the best cars for long drives in India.
Why Travellers Love It
- Hybrid engine offering 20+ km/l mileage
- 7-seater with captain seats
- Ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof, and ADAS
- Automatic CVT transmission for smooth drives
The Hycross ensures fatigue-free journeys, even on long routes. Its suspension absorbs bumps easily, while the hybrid engine saves fuel on highways. Whether you’re planning a family trip to Himachal or a cross-state journey, the Hycross ensures a comfortable and quiet experience.
Toyota Innova Crysta
For over a decade, the Toyota Innova Crysta has been the go-to vehicle for long trips. It’s reliable, comfortable, and built for Indian road conditions.
Key Features
- Engine: 2.4L Diesel
- Mileage: 14–16 km/l
- Seating: 7-seater
- Massive boot space and plush interiors
The Crysta’s strong chassis and spacious design make it one of the best family cars for long road trips in India. It’s especially popular among travellers who prioritise reliability over flashiness. If you’re driving long hours, the Crysta’s smooth handling and ergonomic seating make all the difference.
Maruti Suzuki Jimny
The Maruti Jimny is a small yet capable SUV perfect for road trips where space is limited but adventure is unlimited.
Why the Jimny Works Well for Long Trips
- Compact 4×4 SUV
- Lightweight body for better control
- Mileage: 16–18 km/l
- Ideal for mountains and narrow roads
The Jimny’s size is an advantage — it’s easy to manoeuvre through tight, hilly roads, parking spaces, and crowded towns. Despite being compact, it offers genuine off-road capability and surprising comfort. For couples or solo travellers seeking adventure, this one’s a gem.
Hyundai Venue
The Hyundai Venue is a smart and efficient compact SUV ideal for those who want a balance between city use and long highway trips.
Top Specs
- Engines: 1.2L Petrol / 1.5L Diesel
- Mileage: 17–20 km/l
- Transmission: Manual & DCT Automatic
- Spacious cabin with advanced infotainment
The Venue’s modern features — including wireless connectivity, sunroof, and adjustable seats — make it a comfortable choice for road trips. It handles highways effortlessly and offers excellent mileage, making it a great option for small families and young travellers.
Honda Amaze
For those who prefer sedans over SUVs, the Honda Amaze is a fantastic option for long-distance drives. It’s smooth, efficient, and designed for comfort.
Why the Amaze Deserves a Spot
- Mileage: 18–24 km/l
- Spacious interiors and a large boot space
- CVT automatic option for smooth rides
- Reliable and low maintenance
The Amaze glides through highways with ease, offering sedan comfort at an affordable cost. Its fuel economy and refined engine make it a top pick for travellers who want to cover long distances without spending too much on fuel.
Tips to Choose the Best Car for Your Road Trip
Selecting the right vehicle depends on your destination and travel group. Here are a few quick pointers:
- For hills or rough terrain: Go for SUVs like Thar, Fortuner, or Scorpio N.
- For family comfort: Choose Innova Hycross or Crysta.
- For compact, fuel-efficient travel: Opt for Venue, Jimny, or Amaze.
- Check luggage space, seating comfort, and mileage before your trip.
A comfortable car can turn even the longest road into an enjoyable journey.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re chasing mountain sunsets in Himachal, exploring dunes in Rajasthan, or driving along the Konkan coast, these 8 cars for long road trips in India promise to make your travel smooth, safe, and memorable.
From the rugged Mahindra Thar to the luxurious Toyota Hycross, each car offers something unique — be it performance, style, or fuel efficiency. So, pack your bags, plan your route, and let the road unfold the adventure ahead.
Rent Your Dream Car with Gagan Self Drive Car Chandigarh
If you’re planning your next journey from Chandigarh, there’s no need to buy — just rent your favourite car with Gagan Self Drive Car Chandigarh.
They offer a wide range of self-drive cars for rent, including the Scorpio N, Thar, Fortuner, Innova Crysta, and Hycross — all well-maintained and ready for your next road adventure.
Experience comfort, freedom, and safety on your next trip with Gagan Self Drive Car Chandigarh — your trusted partner for exploring India, one road at a time.
