India is a land of incredible diversity, and there’s no better way to witness its changing landscapes than from behind the wheel. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the sun-drenched coasts of the south, a road trip is an adventure waiting to happen. But for a journey of this scale, your vehicle is more than just transport—it's your companion, your shelter, and your ticket to freedom.

An SUV, with its commanding presence, robust build, and cavernous space, is the quintessential vehicle for long-distance travel in India. It needs to be comfortable for endless hours on the highway, capable of tackling unpredictable broken roads, and reliable enough to not leave you stranded.

Here’s a look at the best SUVs for long-distance travel in India, catering to different needs and budgets. 

1. The All-Round Champion: Mahindra XUV700

The Mahindra XUV700 didn't just enter the market; it took it by storm. It has quickly become a favourite for highway cruising, and for good reason.

• Why it's great for long drives:
  • Stellar Comfort: The suspension is brilliantly tuned to soak up bumps and imperfections, providing a plush ride quality that keeps passengers comfortable over long distances.
  • Powerful Engines: Whether you choose the punchy mStallion petrol or the torquey mHawk diesel, the XUV700 has ample power for effortless overtaking on highways and climbing steep ghat sections.
  • Cutting-Edge Tech: The dual-screen layout is immersive, but the real star is the Advanced Driver-Assistance System (ADAS). Features like adaptive cruise control make long, monotonous highway stretches significantly less fatiguing.
  • Space & Practicality: Available in both 5 and 7-seater configurations, it offers flexibility for families of all sizes. The panoramic sunroof adds a sense of airiness to the cabin, making the journey more enjoyable.

Best for: Families who want a modern, feature-packed, and comfortable SUV for primarily highway-based travel.

2. The King of Comfort and Efficiency: Toyota Innova Hycross

While technically an MPV, the Innova Hycross has strong SUV styling and serves the exact same purpose for Indian families on the move. It has redefined what a long-distance people-mover can be.

• Why it's great for long drives:
  • Unmatched Comfort: With its monocoque chassis and well-judged suspension, the Hycross offers a car-like ride that is simply sublime. The second-row captain seats with ottomans are the best in the business.
  • Phenomenal Fuel Efficiency: The strong hybrid powertrain is a game-changer. It delivers smooth, silent power while offering mileage that can rival hatchbacks, making your trip significantly lighter on the wallet.
  • Legendary Reliability: It's a Toyota. The peace of mind that comes with its bulletproof reliability and vast service network is invaluable on a cross-country trip.
  • Acres of Space: The cabin is enormous, offering comfortable seating for seven or eight adults and still leaving decent room for luggage.

Best for: Large families or groups who prioritise absolute comfort, reliability, and low running costs over rugged off-road ability. 

3. The Rugged Adventurer: Mahindra Scorpio-N

If your road trips involve venturing off the beaten path, the Mahindra Scorpio-N is your trusted steed. Built on a tough ladder-frame chassis, it's an old-school SUV with a modern heart.

• Why it's great for long drives:
  • Commanding Presence: You sit high up, giving you a commanding view of the road ahead. This "king of the road" feeling is a signature Scorpio trait.
  • Go-Anywhere Capability: With a robust body-on-frame construction and an available 4XPLOR 4x4 system, the Scorpio-N can handle rough terrain, broken roads, and mountain trails with confidence.
  • Great Ride on Bad Roads: While firm, the suspension is built to take a beating. It dismisses potholes and bad patches in a way that monocoque SUVs simply can't.
  • Powerful and Reliable: The same powerful engine options from the XUV700 ensure you're never short on grunt.

Best for: Adventurous travellers who frequently encounter bad roads or want the ability to explore remote areas like Ladakh or Spiti. 

4. The Undisputed Tough Guy: Toyota Fortuner

The Toyota Fortuner is an icon. For over a decade, it has been the undisputed king of the full-size SUV segment in India. It's expensive and not the most comfortable, but its capabilities are legendary.

• Why it's great for long drives:
  • Indestructible Build: The Fortuner is engineered to last a lifetime. Its reputation for reliability is second to none, making it the top choice for journeys where you absolutely cannot afford a breakdown.
  • True Off-Road Prowess: This is not a soft-roader. With its proper 4x4 system, high ground clearance, and massive torque, the Fortuner can conquer almost any terrain you throw at it.
  • Incredible Resale Value: A Fortuner holds its value like no other vehicle, making it a sound long-term investment.
  • Vast Service Network: You can find a Toyota service centre in almost any corner of the country.

Best for: Those who need the ultimate in reliability and off-road capability and are willing to trade some ride comfort for bulletproof toughness.

5. The Dynamic : Hyundai Creta 

For smaller families or couples, a full-size SUV might be overkill. The Hyundai Creta, offer a brilliant package that balances city usability with long-distance comfort.

• Why it's great for long drives:
  • Feature-Packed Cabins: From ventilated seats and Bose sound systems to large touchscreens and sunroofs, they are loaded with creature comforts that make long journeys pleasant.
  • Refined and Efficient: They offer a wide variety of smooth petrol and diesel engines, many with excellent automatic gearboxes that make highway driving a breeze.
  • Easy to Drive: Their compact dimensions make them easy to manage in crowded tourist spots or narrow hill roads, where larger SUVs can feel cumbersome.
  • Comfortable for Four: While they are 5-seaters, they are supremely comfortable for four occupants and their luggage on a long trip.

Best for: Small families or couples looking for a feature-rich, comfortable, and easy-to-drive SUV for highway-focused trips.

Final Checklist for Your Ideal Touring SUV

• Comfort: Look for good ride quality and supportive seats with lumbar support.
• Space: Ensure there's enough room for passengers and luggage.
• Performance: A torquey engine (especially diesel or turbo-petrol) is crucial for highway overtakes. Cruise control is a must.
• Safety: Prioritise cars with high safety ratings (Global NCAP), multiple airbags, and Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
• Fuel Efficiency: A higher mileage figure means fewer stops and lower running costs.

Ultimately, the best SUV for you depends on your budget, family size, and the kind of adventures you have planned. So, do your test drives, pack your bags, and get ready to create some unforgettable memories on the incredible roads of India.