The Most Comfortable Cars for Long Drives in 2025

Whether you’re planning a cross-country trip or just want a plush daily driver, comfort matters—especially in Australia where distances can stretch for hours on end. In 2025, automakers are stepping up with luxury-level comfort in not just high-end sedans, but also SUVs, hybrids, and even budget-friendly models.

This in-depth guide explores the most comfortable cars for long drives in 2025, assessing them on ride quality, seat comfort, cabin space, interior tech, and noise insulation—everything that defines a fatigue-free journey.

What Makes a Car Comfortable for Long Drives?

Before diving into the top picks, it’s crucial to understand the key comfort factors:

1. Ride Quality

• Soft suspension that absorbs road imperfections.

• Smooth transmission with little vibration or jerk.

• Adaptive dampers for dynamic adjustment.

2. Seats and Ergonomics

• Supportive cushioning with lumbar and thigh support.

• Power-adjustable, ventilated, and heated seating.

• Massage functions in luxury models.

3. Cabin Quietness

• High-grade insulation from wind and road noise.

• Double-glazed windows.

• Active noise cancellation in premium models.

4. Interior Features

• Dual-zone or tri-zone climate control.

• Wireless phone charging and infotainment ease.

• Panoramic sunroofs and ambient lighting for a relaxed vibe.

5. Space

• Ample legroom and headroom, especially in the second row.

• Large boot for luggage on road trips.

• Flexible seat layouts in SUVs and 7-seaters.

Top 15 Most Comfortable Cars for Long Drives in 2025

1. Mercedes-Benz E-Class (2025)

• Type: Luxury Sedan

• Why it’s great: Air suspension, advanced seat massaging, silent cabin.

• Bonus: Mercedes’ MBUX infotainment with voice control is intuitive for long trips.

2. Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series

• Type: Full-size SUV

• Why it’s great: Built for Australia’s outback, this beast combines off-road muscle with leather-trimmed comfort.

• Bonus: Excellent second-row comfort for passengers.

3. BMW X5

• Type: Luxury SUV

• Why it’s great: Adaptive suspension, spacious seating, luxurious finishes.

• Bonus: Available plug-in hybrid for smoother city-to-country transition.

4. Kia Sorento GT-Line (Diesel/Hybrid)

• Type: 7-Seater SUV

• Why it’s great: Surprisingly premium for the price, with plush Nappa leather and captain’s chairs in higher trims.

• Bonus: Multiple USB ports, wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay.

5. Hyundai Palisade Highlander

• Type: Full-size SUV

• Why it’s great: Road-trip ready with huge space, soft ride, ventilated seats in front and rear.

• Bonus: Quiet cabin even at highway speeds.

6. Mazda CX-90

• Type: Premium SUV

• Why it’s great: Combines driving fun with plush ride quality. Third-row seats are adult-friendly too.

• Bonus: Inline-6 engine with smooth power delivery.

7. Volvo XC60

• Type: Mid-size Luxury SUV

• Why it’s great: Simple Swedish luxury, extremely supportive seats, and top-notch safety.

• Bonus: Clean air filtration system—great for allergy-prone drivers.

8. Lexus ES 300h

• Type: Luxury Hybrid Sedan

• Why it’s great: Whisper-quiet drive, buttery-soft suspension, and ultra-wide reclining rear seats.

• Bonus: Fantastic fuel economy for long trips.

9. Genesis GV70

• Type: Mid-size Luxury SUV

• Why it’s great: Rivals the Germans for comfort, with a focus on craftsmanship and noise insulation.

• Bonus: Massage seats and high-end audio system.

10. Ford Everest Platinum

• Type: Large SUV

• Why it’s great: Designed for long Aussie journeys with soft suspension, plenty of space, and comfy seats.

• Bonus: Great towing and off-road comfort.

11. Skoda Superb Sportline

• Type: Sedan/Wagon

• Why it’s great: Massive legroom, relaxed ride, and clever storage touches.

• Bonus: Massage seats even in mid-spec models.

12. Toyota Camry Hybrid

• Type: Mid-size Sedan

• Why it’s great: Reliable, efficient, and surprisingly plush ride. Hybrid system offers quiet acceleration.

• Bonus: One of the best backseats in its segment.

13. Audi Q7

• Type: 7-Seater Luxury SUV

• Why it’s great: Plush third row, active air suspension, and impeccable ride comfort.

• Bonus: Drive Select system customises ride stiffness for road conditions.

14. Honda Accord e:HEV

• Type: Hybrid Sedan

• Why it’s great: Newly revamped with exceptional cabin refinement and quietness.

• Bonus: Great value with semi-autonomous driver assistance features.

15. Tesla Model S

• Type: Electric Sedan

• Why it’s great: One-pedal driving makes long distances less stressful. Smooth and silent.

• Bonus: Autopilot features reduce fatigue.

Honorable Mentions

Subaru Outback

• AWD grip, soft ride, and smart EyeSight safety system make it a great long-trip car.

Nissan X-Trail e-Power

• Hybrid power, roomy second row, and relaxed urban driving comfort.

Peugeot 508 GT Fastback

• European design meets premium seat bolstering and ride finesse.

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

• New-gen version offers electric-only city runs and a comfortable petrol backup for long country stretches.

Comfort Features to Look for in Your Next Car

Petrol, Hybrid, or Electric – Which Is Most Comfortable?

Petrol Cars

• Offer more consistent performance over long distances.

• Available in large sedans and full-size SUVs like the Toyota LandCruiser or Ford Everest.

Hybrid Cars

• Quiet and fuel-efficient.

• Examples: Lexus ES 300h, Toyota Camry Hybrid.

Electric Cars

• Silent cabins and instant torque.

• Long-distance range improving with models like Tesla Model S and Hyundai Ioniq 6.

Final Tips: Buying a Comfortable Car for Long Drives in Australia

1. Test Drive for at least 30 minutes – Highway driving helps evaluate ride smoothness.

2. Check seat support – Poor lumbar support causes fatigue.

3. Don’t ignore rear-seat passengers – Especially on family trips.

4. Look for boot space – Essential for road trip gear.

5. Choose quiet tyres – Many brands offer comfort-oriented rubber options.

Conclusion: Comfort Without Compromise

From premium sedans to rugged 7-seat SUVs, there’s no shortage of ultra-comfy rides in 2025. Whether you prefer the luxury of a Lexus, the practicality of a Toyota, or the innovation of an EV, you’re covered. Prioritise your personal driving habits, passenger needs, and feature must-haves—and enjoy the open road like never before.

For more detailed reviews, comparisons, and car buying tips, keep exploring at carsoop.com.au—your destination for all things automotive in Australia.