When it comes to hitting the open road, the right car can make all the difference. Whether you're planning a weekend escape or a cross-country adventure, comfort, reliability, and clever features are essential. Luckily, the 2025 lineup of vehicles offers some stellar options for road trip aficionados. Think spacious cabins, advanced tech, great fuel efficiency, and enough cargo space to haul everything from hiking gear to coolers full of snacks.

From SUVs to sedans to EVs, here are the top seven must-drive road trip cars for 2025. These models have been tested and reviewed, earning their spot as the ultimate companions for your next adventure.

1. 2025 Kia Telluride

  • Why It’s Perfect: Spacious, tech-packed, and road-trip-ready.
  • Seating and Cargo: Seats up to eight with over 87 cubic feet of cargo space.
  • Starting Price: $36,390.

The Kia Telluride continues to dominate in 2025 as one of the most loved family SUVs on the market. It blends a luxurious cabin with a robust engine, making it a smooth performer whether you're cruising highways or tackling backroads. The standard 12.3-inch infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and multiple USB ports ensure entertainment for all passengers. Plus, the available self-leveling rear suspension makes it ideal for carrying heavy loads without sacrificing comfort.

2. 2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

  • Why It’s Perfect: Unmatched fuel efficiency in the SUV category.
  • Fuel Economy: 41 MPG combined.
  • Starting Price: $32,300.

Planning for long miles? The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is a workhorse that keeps gas station stops to a minimum. With its hybrid powertrain, this compact SUV offers excellent mileage alongside steady performance. The spacious interior comfortably seats five, and the smartly designed cargo area can handle everything you need for a camping trip or beach getaway. Additionally, standard Toyota Safety Sense™ 3.0 brings peace of mind with advanced safety features like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control.

3. 2025 Honda Odyssey

  • Why It’s Perfect: The ultimate road trip minivan for families.
  • Features: Magic Slide second-row seats and a rear entertainment system.
  • Starting Price: $42,220.

If comfort and practicality are top priorities, the Honda Odyssey is your perfect match. This minivan isn’t just about ferrying kids to after-school activities; it’s thoughtfully designed for long journeys. The cabin includes versatile seating options, an in-car PA system so parents can easily communicate with kids in the third row, and an available 10.2-inch rear entertainment screen. Need to stop for the night? The Odyssey’s cavernous interior can even accommodate camping setups.

4. 2025 Tesla Model Y

  • Why It’s Perfect: Futuristic, electric, and loaded with smart features.
  • Range: Up to 330 miles on a single charge.
  • Starting Price: $44,990.

If you're looking to pair sustainability with your wanderlust, the Tesla Model Y is a must-drive. Its all-electric performance eliminates gas costs entirely, and Tesla’s Supercharger network ensures you’re covered no matter where the road takes you. Inside, the minimalist interior offers expansive cargo room (including a front trunk) and a sleek infotainment display that manages everything from route planning to karaoke. Plus, Tesla's Autopilot mode reduces driver fatigue on longer stretches.

5. 2025 Subaru Outback Wilderness

  • Why It’s Perfect: Adventure-oriented and off-road capable.
  • Ground Clearance: 9.5 inches.
  • Starting Price: $36,310.

For road trippers seeking scenic byways that turn into gravel paths, the Outback Wilderness is a standout choice. This rugged crossover combines excellent all-wheel drive performance with higher-than-usual ground clearance, making it perfect for exploring national parks or remote campgrounds. While its off-road prowess shines, the Outback doesn’t skimp on comfort. The water-repellent upholstery, spacious interior, and roof rails with tie-down points make it an adventurous yet practical pick for sprawling road trips.

6. 2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E

  • Why It’s Perfect: A sporty EV with excellent range and style.
  • Range: Up to 312 miles on a single charge.
  • Starting Price: $37,995.

The Mustang Mach-E brings a thrilling dose of performance to the electric SUV category. Its immediate torque and agile handling make it a joy to drive, whether you're navigating winding coastal highways or desert straights. The cabin boasts a massive vertical touchscreen, full smartphone integration, and excellent safety tech like Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control. Plus, with zero emissions and convenient overnight charging at hotels, the Mach-E ensures your road trip is eco-friendly and efficient.

7. 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid

  • Why It’s Perfect: Stylish, spacious, and impressively efficient.
  • Fuel Economy: 36 MPG combined.
  • Starting Price: $37,800.

The Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid perfectly balances practical family features and fuel-efficient engineering. It offers a serene ride and a roomy, high-tech cabin, with generous seating for five and 72 cubic feet of cargo space. Its hybrid system seamlessly blends gas and electric power, ensuring great fuel economy without compromising on performance. The panoramic sunroof and available Harman Kardon premium audio system enhance the experience, making even the longest drives a pleasure.

What Makes a Great Road Trip Car?

Choosing a road trip car isn’t just about how it looks on the lot. Here are the key factors that landed these seven models on this list:

  1. Comfort: Whether you're driving for hours or days, ample legroom, supportive seats, and climate controls make all the difference.
  2. Tech and Connectivity: From navigation systems that help you avoid traffic to entertainment options that keep passengers happy, modern tech is a must.
  3. Fuel Efficiency: Long stretches of highway can drain your wallet if your car is a gas guzzler. Hybrid and electric models keep fuel costs down while extending your range.
  4. Cargo Space: The ideal road trip car has plenty of room for luggage, gear, and road trip essentials without feeling cramped.
  5. Reliability: A breakdown far from home is the fastest way to ruin an adventure. The vehicles here come from manufacturers known for dependability.
  6. Safety Features: Advanced safety systems like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control are essential for reducing stress and enhancing peace of mind on the road.

The road trip is one of life’s great adventures, and choosing the perfect car can elevate the whole experience. Each vehicle on this list of 2025 models goes above and beyond, offering a unique combination of comfort, efficiency, and innovative features tailored to different types of trips.