Whether it’s a weekend escape on winding country roads or a cross-country trek, new research from the temporary car insurance experts at Uswitch highlights the top car models built for long-distance journeys.
To assess long-haul suitability, the UK’s most popular car models, based on registrations, were scored from one to 100 across three key criteria: reliability and performance, fuel economy, and safety.
Tesla, Audi and Kia make the top three EV models for long-distance journeys
Tesla Model 3 – 84/100
Among the cars researched, Tesla’s most affordable model, the Model 3, emerged as the top EV for drivers seeking a comfortable, safe, and reliable long-distance journey. The Model 3 comes equipped with Tesla’s Autopilot, an advanced driver assistance system that uses cameras and intelligent processing to enhance safety and reduce driver workload. This feature helped the Model 3 secure its spot as the safest option in the ranking.
Audi e-tron – 81/100
Coming in second with a score of 81 out of 100 overall is the Audi e-tron. Although discontinued earlier this year, the model features rapid charging capabilities, and offers seven driving modes: Efficiency, Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, Individual, Off Road and All Road, giving you the choice to adapt your car to suit the journey.
Kia Niro – 72/100
Finalising the top three is the Kia Niro, a compact crossover SUV equipped with advanced driver assistance systems such as forward collision avoidance and smart cruise control. Together, these systems enhance long-distance safety by reducing the risk of collisions and ensuring a smooth, steady pace.
Source: Uswitch.com
Renault Clio tops the petrol and diesel ranking for long-distance drives
Renault Clio – 84/100
Scoring higher than any other petrol or diesel cars in the research, the most recent 5th generation option of the Renault Clio has the best fuel economy in the ranking, with 58.4 mpg on average. Since its most recent update in 2023, the French-designed supermini boasts a boot capacity of 391 litres – perfect for long trips with plenty of luggage.
Vauxhall Corsa and Mercedes A-Class – 73/100
Coming in joint second for petrol and diesel cars is another supermini, the Vauxhall Corsa. The Corsa’s safety systems include lane support and speed assistance, plus automatic emergency braking, giving drivers peace of mind when undertaking long motorway stints.
The Mercedes A-Class also ranked second. With one of the highest safety ratings in the top ten, this family car scored top marks for its speed assistance features in Euro NCAP testing.
Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra – 66/100
Following behind is a staple of the British car market: the Ford Focus. First launched in the 1990s, it has been a popular choice for families ever since. The Focus comes equipped with a range of safety features, including an Intelligent Speed Limiter which uses a camera to recognise speed limit information, a seatbelt reminder and autonomous emergency braking.
Tied with the Ford Focus is the Vauxhall Astra. The model offers a number of useful safety features, ideal for long drives. Equipped on the new Astra, Vauxhall’s IntelliLux matrix LED headlights automatically adjust the main beam to avoid dazzling oncoming drivers, improving visibility on evening drives.
Source: Uswitch.com
The Honda Jazz and Toyota Yaris share the top spot as standout hybrid models for long road trips
Honda Jazz and Toyota Yaris – 80/100
In joint first place for hybrids is the Honda Jazz, which offers a fair balance of performance and economy. Thanks to slimmer windscreen pillars, the Honda Jazz gives drivers a wide, clear view of the road ahead – making it easier to spot hazards on long journeys. The Jazz also achieved a high reliability rating of 9.4/10 on Motoreasy’s Reliability Index.
Sharing the spotlight with the Jazz is the Toyota Yaris[1]. Named 2022 Affordable Hybrid Car of the Year[9], this compact supermini combines a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating with a reliability score of 9.2/10. This makes the Yaris a reassuringly dependable choice for drivers and passengers alike.
Volvo XC60 – 76/100
Following behind is the Volvo XC60, which scored highest in the fuel efficiency rankings. All models come standard with autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, dual-stage airbags, and traffic sign recognition. They also feature oncoming lane mitigation, which helps steer the car away from oncoming traffic to prevent head-on collisions.
Toyota C-HR – 72/100
As the second Toyota model in the hybrid top three1], the C-HR has one of the highest reliability ratings in the ranking at 9.7/10, matched only by the Kira Niro. The small 5-door SUV has a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating to put drivers at ease. With light, responsive steering, the C-HR is well-equipped for city driving; however, it can handle itself on motorways with road and wind noise well managed.
Source: Uswitch.com
