Australia is a country built for the road. From coastal highways stretching along the Great Ocean Road to the long, empty stretches of the Stuart Highway through the Outback, driving is part of the Australian way of life. But not every car is built to handle the demands of long-distance travel. Whether it’s maintaining comfort on eight-hour drives, ensuring stability at high speeds, or providing advanced driver assistance, certain cars stand out as ideal companions for highway cruising.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best cars for long highway drives in Australia in 2025, covering everything from sedans and SUVs to hybrids and EVs. Each vehicle has been selected based on comfort, fuel efficiency, technology, safety, and real-world highway performance.
What Makes a Car Great for Highway Driving?
Before diving into specific models, it’s worth considering what separates a good city car from a highway cruiser. Long drives put different demands on a car, so choosing wisely ensures both comfort and safety.
Comfort & Seating
On extended journeys, driver fatigue can become a major safety hazard. Supportive seats with lumbar adjustment, high-quality materials, and spacious cabins are essential. Premium sound insulation helps reduce wind and road noise, making the ride more relaxing.
Fuel Efficiency & Range
Highway driving often means hundreds of kilometres between stops. Fuel-efficient petrol or diesel engines, hybrids with long ranges, and EVs with reliable charging networks are key factors.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and fatigue detection systems are now standard in many highway-ready cars. These features help reduce the strain of long drives.
Ride & Handling
A smooth suspension setup, stable handling at speed, and quiet performance are important for reducing driver stress on motorways.
Storage & Practicality
For road trips, boot space and clever storage solutions matter. Cars with large boots, roof rails, or expandable seating layouts are more road-trip friendly.
Best Sedans for Long Highway Drives in Australia
Sedans may have lost some ground to SUVs in recent years, but they remain excellent highway cruisers. Their low centre of gravity and streamlined aerodynamics often deliver smoother rides and better fuel economy than taller vehicles.
Toyota Camry Hybrid 2025
The Toyota Camry has long been Australia’s go-to long-distance sedan, and the 2025 Hybrid version continues this tradition. Its hybrid powertrain blends fuel efficiency with smooth power delivery, making it ideal for covering long distances between fuel stops.
- Strengths: Exceptional efficiency (4.5L/100km), quiet cabin, advanced Toyota Safety Sense features.
- Why It’s Great for Highways: Low running costs, effortless cruising, spacious interior.
Hyundai Sonata N Line
For those who prefer something sportier without compromising comfort, the Hyundai Sonata N Line strikes a balance. Its turbocharged 2.5-litre engine offers power for overtaking on country highways, while the cabin remains refined.
- Strengths: Strong performance, high-tech cabin, supportive seats.
- Why It’s Great for Highways: A sedan that feels at home on long, sweeping roads.
BMW 5 Series (2025 Update)
Luxury sedans like the BMW 5 Series excel on long drives. The new model brings cutting-edge tech like semi-autonomous driving assistance and a more refined ride.
- Strengths: Luxury interior, quiet ride, strong straight-line stability.
- Why It’s Great for Highways: Perfect blend of comfort, performance, and prestige.
Best SUVs for Long-Distance Australian Highways
SUVs dominate the Australian market, and for good reason. Their raised driving positions, versatile cabins, and advanced tech make them ideal for both family road trips and solo adventures.
Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series
Few vehicles are as synonymous with long-distance Australian driving as the LandCruiser. Whether cruising highways or tackling rugged tracks, the LC300 excels.
- Strengths: Outstanding comfort, powerful V6 diesel, massive range with twin fuel tanks.
- Why It’s Great for Highways: Built for endurance, ideal for families travelling across states.
Mazda CX-90
Mazda’s new flagship SUV combines premium quality with efficiency. Its plug-in hybrid option offers flexibility, while the standard models focus on luxury and comfort.
- Strengths: Quiet cabin, premium interior, advanced driver aids.
- Why It’s Great for Highways: Perfect for modern families who value refinement on long journeys.
Kia Sorento Hybrid
The Sorento is a practical SUV that doesn’t compromise on comfort. The hybrid model is fuel-efficient and packed with tech.
- Strengths: Strong fuel economy, versatile seven-seat layout, competitive price.
- Why It’s Great for Highways: Family-friendly and efficient for long trips.
BMW X5
Luxury buyers looking for an SUV built for highway comfort should consider the BMW X5. With plush interiors, strong engines, and adaptive cruise features, it excels at long-haul driving.
- Strengths: Smooth ride, luxurious features, powerful engine options.
- Why It’s Great for Highways: Premium comfort with German engineering reliability.
Best Electric Cars for Highway Driving in Australia
EVs are increasingly practical for long-distance driving, thanks to expanding charging networks. Some electric cars now rival petrol vehicles for range and comfort.
Tesla Model S
Tesla’s flagship remains one of the best EVs for long highway drives, with a range exceeding 600km. Its Autopilot system takes some strain off the driver.
- Strengths: Long range, excellent tech, quiet ride.
- Why It’s Great for Highways: Reliable charging infrastructure across major highways.
Hyundai Ioniq 6
A sleek electric sedan, the Ioniq 6 combines futuristic design with efficiency. With over 500km of range, it’s perfect for highway cruising.
- Strengths: Aerodynamic design, efficient battery use, comfortable interior.
- Why It’s Great for Highways: Stylish yet practical for EV road trips.
Kia EV9
The new large electric SUV from Kia is designed with families in mind. With three rows of seating and long-range capability, it’s one of the best highway-ready EVs.
- Strengths: Spacious, advanced tech, over 480km of range.
- Why It’s Great for Highways: Comfort and practicality for eco-conscious families.
Best Hybrid Cars for Long Drives
Hybrids remain a strong choice for Australians seeking efficiency without relying solely on charging networks.
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
The RAV4 Hybrid has been Australia’s top-selling SUV for good reason. It offers excellent fuel economy and plenty of space, making it ideal for highway trips.
- Strengths: Low running costs, spacious boot, Toyota reliability.
- Why It’s Great for Highways: A proven all-rounder for long drives.
Lexus ES 300h
Luxury meets hybrid efficiency in the Lexus ES. Its plush cabin and whisper-quiet drive make it a favourite among long-distance travellers.
- Strengths: Refined interior, low noise levels, hybrid efficiency.
- Why It’s Great for Highways: Luxury long-distance comfort without the high fuel bills.
Diesel Options for Long Distances
Diesel engines remain unmatched for long-haul driving, particularly for towing and remote journeys.
Ford Everest
The Everest combines rugged durability with modern tech, making it a reliable choice for long-distance touring.
- Strengths: Towing capability, highway comfort, diesel efficiency.
- Why It’s Great for Highways: Perfect for families who tow caravans or trailers.
Isuzu MU-X
Isuzu’s MU-X has a loyal following among road-trippers and off-roaders. It’s efficient, durable, and practical for big adventures.
- Strengths: Tough reliability, strong diesel economy, roomy interior.
- Why It’s Great for Highways: A dependable companion for exploring Australia.
Luxury Cars for Highway Cruising
For those who want the very best in refinement and performance, luxury cars offer unmatched comfort.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
The E-Class is often regarded as one of the best highway cruisers in the world. The 2025 update brings new tech and enhanced comfort.
- Strengths: Top-notch luxury, semi-autonomous driving, strong performance.
- Why It’s Great for Highways: A perfect blend of elegance and technology.
Audi A6
The Audi A6 excels at balancing performance with comfort. Its Quattro all-wheel-drive system provides confidence in all conditions.
- Strengths: Refined handling, premium features, quiet interior.
- Why It’s Great for Highways: A safe, reliable luxury sedan for extended travel.
Practical Tips for Choosing a Highway Car in Australia
While the models above stand out, choosing the right highway car depends on your needs:
- For Families: SUVs like the Toyota LandCruiser, Mazda CX-90, or Kia Sorento offer space and comfort.
- For Solo Travellers: Sedans like the Toyota Camry or Hyundai Ioniq 6 deliver efficiency and smoothness.
- For Adventurers: Diesel SUVs like the Ford Everest or Isuzu MU-X are perfect for long hauls with caravans.
- For Luxury Seekers: BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, or Mercedes E-Class bring unmatched refinement.
- For Eco-Friendly Drivers: EVs like the Tesla Model S or Kia EV9 are becoming increasingly practical.
Final Thoughts
Australia’s vast landscapes demand cars that are reliable, comfortable, and efficient on long journeys. Whether you prefer the ruggedness of a LandCruiser, the smooth efficiency of a Camry Hybrid, or the futuristic performance of a Tesla, there’s a perfect highway car for every driver.
When choosing, always consider your driving style, the distances you cover, and whether you’ll need extra features like towing, luxury, or off-road capability. With the right choice, every highway drive can feel smooth, safe, and enjoyable.
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