What is the Best Car for Long Commutes?
Lisa Steuer McArdle
Dec 5, 2021 · 4 min read
If you have a long drive to work, having the right car is essential. You’ll want something that’s not only comfortable and safe to drive, but also offers good fuel economy, so you can go long distances without having to fill that gas tank as often. Of course, buying a car that has these attributes and is also affordable is usually a priority as well.
We decided to review reports on some of the most highly rated commuter cars. While this isn’t an exhaustive list, it can point you in the right direction if you’re in the market for a new car.
So what is the best car for long commutes? Here’s what the critics had to say.
Choosing a good commuter car is essential if you have a long drive to work.
Best car for long commutes: Toyota
Car and Driver included a few different Toyota models as best cars for long commutes. It makes sense since Toyotas have long been known for their reliability.
The 2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is a great option for commuters because of its impressive gas mileage of 41/38/40 mpg. Consumer Reports notes that the XLE trim offers a good balance of price and feature availability. There’s even a Weather Prep package that includes a heated steering wheel and rain-sensing wipers—good tools to have for commutes in the winter.
The 2020 Toyota Corolla Hybrid is another top pick by Car and Driver, and U.S. News agrees. Consumer Reports also gave the car high praise for its fuel economy and standard advanced safety features. It reportedly has a quiet cabin, which is appealing for drivers when they get stuck in traffic. The car also has an affordable price tag.
Best car for long commutes: Hyundai
Car and Driver lists two Hyundai vehicles on its list of best cars for long commutes: the 2020 Hyundai Tucson and the 2017 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid.
The 2020 Hyundai Tucson is probably not the most fuel-efficient vehicle on this list but has earned praise for a smooth and reliable ride. As Consumer Reports notes, although the vehicle is not as sporty as a Ford Escape or Mazda CX-5, it handles corners well and is responsive and agile.
According to U.S. News, the 2020 Hyundai Tucson is a good car for commuters because it has a long warranty.
The 2017 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid is one of the older vehicles on the list, but don’t count it out just because of that. It’s one of the best in terms of fuel efficiency since it gets almost 60 mpg, which is excellent for commuters.
When it comes to the 2017 Hyundai Ioniq, Consumer Reports suggests the Hybrid SEL with the Tech package. It offers many features that may appeal to commuters, including blind-spot monitoring, heated front seats, a power driver’s seat, and an additional USB charge port.
Best Honda for long commutes
Honda is another car brand known for its reliability. If you’re looking for a Honda that does well in a long commute, Car and Driver suggests the 2020 Honda Civic Sedan Touring. It’s not an electric car but is still a good choice for those who want a greener ride, with impressive gas mileage of 32 mpg for city, 42 mpg for highway, and 36 mpg combined.
Plus, Consumer Reports notes that the Touring version of this Honda Civic generation offers a smooth and sufficient ride with its uplevel turbo engine.
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