The Best Cars for Long Commutes

Hannah Martin

2024-10-12

6 min read

Some of us spend more time in our cars than we'd like on our daily commute to work. While there's no way around it, you sure can make that daily journey easier by getting a comfy commuter car suitable for long distances.

If you're going to be sitting in your vehicle for more than an hour, you'll want it to be as cozy as possible, with the best sound system and great fuel efficiency, so you don't spend all your earnings on gas.

So, what are the best cars for long commutes? We'll show you some of our picks to make that ride to work early in the morning a bit more enjoyable for you.

What to Look for in a Commuter Car?

Before you go hunting for a car to get you to work, you need to know what to look out for. 

Purchasing a car suitable for a long commute isn't a decision that should be taken lightly. It's not like a vehicle you're using to get from A to B in your local town; this car has to be suitable for enduring extended journeys without suffering much wear and tear.

When the time comes for buying the car, these are some of the things you should look out for:

  • Fuel efficiency: How much fuel will the car consume per mile?
  • Comfort: Cushioned and heated seating, roomy cabin, and heating and AC
  • Technology: Hands-free set, sat-nav, voice control, and a Bluetooth sound system
  • Power: The better the engine, the more power and smoother the drive down the highway
  • Safety: Hazard detection systems and blind spot detection

Our Top Vehicle Choices for Long Commutes

Honda Civic

Starting this list strong with a classic among American commuters, the Honda Civic is everything you could ever want in a vehicle for going to work. Long, low, and speedy, these sporty beauties are built perfectly for when you've overslept your alarm. Honda Civics are well known for their spacious cabins and extra legroom, making them extra minutes at the red lights a bit more pleasant.

All the newer Honda Civic models come with an incredibly versatile sat-nav system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a DAB radio set, so you'll always have some entertainment on hand.

Ford Fiesta

The Ford Fiesta has been a hitter among hitters since its introduction into the auto market in the 1970s, and there's no sign of its popularity dwindling any time soon.

Workers have always praised the Ford Fiesta for its affordability, functionality, and swanky hatchback design. Ford has tailored this model toward those tackling rough roads and sketchy conditions with light steering and gear changing. While we don't see many of these bad boys in the USA, if you go anywhere in Europe, they're everywhere, particularly in the UK.

Since 2017, Ford has really brought their game to a whole new level with the cabins for their Fiestas. They introduced new interactive digital display systems, high-powered AC, 8-speaker sound equipment, and even heated leather seats.

Toyota Rav 4

Cheap to run, big with lots of space for carpooling, and lots of gadgets, what's not to love about the Toyota Rav 4?

This beautiful Toyota-built SUV ticks all the boxes on the outside with its raised position, trapezoidal grille, and downturned bumpers. 

One of the main draws of the Toyota Rav 4 is its solid efficiency; you won't have to worry about pulling in to line up at the gas station every second day because these models are cherished for their low gas consumption.

The interiors of the Rav 4 are well put together, too. It has adjustable front seats suitable for small and tall people and an interactive touch screen in the front compartment. That's not all, though; throughout the vehicle, you'll also find lots of handy storage compartments and an easy-to-use button system.

Kia Sportage

Sticking with the SUVs, the Kia Sportage is another brilliant option for commuters. Available in all kinds of specs and drivetrains, one thing nobody can fault about Sportages is their reliability. No matter how many miles you clock up in a day, you can bet these formidable machines will never let you down.

The Kia Sportage is highly praised for its smooth drive and easy maneuverability, which are enhanced by the seven-speed automatic gearbox. The newer models are a feast for the eyes on the inside with their shiny, refined designs, sleek 12.3-inch screens, and wireless charging stations.

If your main focus is fuel efficiency, the best option to go with is the plug-in hybrid that has 50 MPG and allows for around 43 miles for the electricity range, which you can save for your days off.

Toyota Prius

Best known as the car that put hybrids on the map, the Toyota Prius may not be the most appealing vehicle for an extended journey in terms of looks, but they're a dream to drive with their simple controls and laidback cruising style.

Toyota Priuses are less about speed and more about the quality of the journey. While they do have a good push in them with a nice 0-60 time in between 10 and 11 seconds, commuters who go all in on them do so because of the way they drive.

In terms of the cost of running a Toyota Prius, they'll be your best friend as they're very economical, which is why a lot of taxi drivers use them.

The inside of a Toyota Prius isn't too shabby either; think digital displays, Bluetooth radio, JBL speakers, and ample legroom; that's what they're all about.

Make Your Long Commute Easier With One of the Vehicles!

Your next drive to work doesn't have to be as daunting as it once was when you're driving one of these stunning automobiles. 

Forget the big fancy-looking motors and focus on what's going to give you the smoothest journey without costing you half of your salary. With these picks, you'll be guaranteed an enjoyable ride every time you get behind the wheel for your commute.

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