Indian highways have undergone a sea change, and with better connectivity, that also increases the allure of driving on the open road. The correct car can make long drives on India’s interminable network of highways easy and comfortable for hours of driving with comfort, safety, and efficiency. Here are some options suitable for the Indian highways, catering to various tastes and wallets.
1. Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza
A compact SUV from Maruti Suzuki, which offers the perfect combination of comfort, mileage, and ground clearance- for effective handling of usual uneven terrains found on Indian highways.
Engine: 1.5L Petrol with Smart Hybrid Technology
Mileage: Around 17-18 km/l
Special Features: spacious interiors, excellent fuel efficiency, and responsive handling.
Why Buy It? Brezza is apt for highway cruising because of its stability at high speeds, and Maruti’s wide service network makes it a worry-free buy.
2. Hyundai Creta
Hyundai Creta has become the darling of Indian SUV fans due to its solid build as well as premium features offered at an affordable price.
Engine: 1.5L Petrol, 1.5L Diesel, and 1.4L Turbo Petrol
Fuel Economy: Diesel around 20 km/l, Petrol around 17 km/l
The comfort features of the car are comprehensive seatings, roof sun, connected car features, and advanced safety aids are offered by the car.
Why Choose? The Hyundai Creta can be found to have style and comfortable performance on highways as well as city traffic with ease.
3. Tata Harrier
For an individual who seeks something rugged SUV, there is a great possibility of Tata Harrier when they can conquer Indian highways easily to provide a premium feel.
Engine: 2.0L Diesel Engine
Mileage: Approximately 16 km/l
Notable Features: Ample cabin space, 9-speaker JBL audio system, panoramic sunroof, and complete safety feature set.
Why buy? Harrier’s smooth suspend calibration and robust structure have proved it to be a super smooth and mighty ride on long highway runs even on uneven patches.
4. Mahindra XUV700
The XUV700 by Mahindra has shocked the Indian market with its value-for-money package when viewed at affordable pricing.
Engines: 2.0L Turbo Petrol and the 2.2L Diesel Engine
Fuel Economy: Diesel: 17-18 km/l, Petrol: about 14 km/l
Special Attractions: ADAS, lots of room for seating, great infotainment.
Why Buy it? The XUV700 is full of safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, perfect for highway road trips.
5. Toyota Innova Crysta
The Innova Crysta remains timeless, a go for the long haul. The Innova continues to be one favourite among big families and those who value comfort over anything else.
Engines Options: 2.4L Diesel and 2.7L Petrol
Fuel Economy: Diesel – 14-15 km/l, Petrol – 10-11 km/l
Other Key Features: It is equipped with adequate cabin space, good build quality, a powerful engine, and several air conditioner vents.
Why Buy? It is a comfortable highway cruiser which has enough space and muscle for long trips.
6. Honda City
If you are looking for the best sedan to be used on highways, then the Honda City can be the first choice, especially for those who like a comfortable and stable sedan.
Engine: 1.5L i-VTEC Petrol and 1.5L i-DTEC Diesel
Fuel Economy: Diesel approx around 24 km/l, Petrol approx around 18 km/l
Notable Features: It has a refined engine, ample interior room and infotainment, along with cruise control.
Why Choose It? The Honda City is very much an agreeable and smooth drive, perfect for medium-length road trip travel with a small family or for a solo drive.
7. Kia Seltos
Kia Seltos has very quickly taken its spot on the list as one of the favourites for high-way usage, thanks to its sporty flair and feature-rich interior package.
Engine Options: 1.5L Petrol, 1.4L Turbo Petrol, and 1.5L Diesel
Mileage: Diesel around 20 km/l, Petrol around 16-17 km/l
Notable Features: Bose sound system, smart connectivity, ventilated seats, and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen.
Why Choose It? Seltos’s stylish looks and advanced features make highway journeys fun and safe while allowing for powerful engine options to keep pace.
8. MG Hector
The tech-heavy SUV, MG Hector, boasts a set of features built specifically for a comfortable and safe highway trip.
Engine Options: 1.5L Turbo Petrol, 1.5L Hybrid, and 2.0L Diesel
Mileage: Diesel around 17 km/l, Petrol 14-15 km/l
Notable Features: Big panoramic sunroof, internet-linked features, roomy interior and 360-degree camera.
Why go for it? Hector is excellent for highway use due to its overwhelming features which come with a spacious cabin-friendly car ideal for those long hours at the wheel.
9. Maruti Suzuki Ertiga
Filled with utility without breaking the comfort level, Ertiga is one of the few affordable MPVs which don’t spill over one’s pocket for family highway trips.
Engine: 1.5L Petrol with Smart Hybrid Technology
Mileage: Around 17-18 km/l
Some notable features include seven seats, good boot space and obviously, Maruti’s mileage.
Why buy this? The Ertiga offers affordability and practicality, making it a good choice for families who want a reliable vehicle for regular highway travel.
Some Highway driving tips in India
The right car is essential, but not nearly as important as driving safely on India’s somewhat unique highway system. Here are a few general tips:
- Plan your route and stops: Find some good fuel stations and eateries along your route beforehand.
- Keep to a steady speed: Most highways allow speeds of up to 100 km/h, although it is safer to stick at around 80-90 km/h.
- Be Alert: Highway driving requires constant attention; remain alert to sudden stoppages or abrupt lane changes by other vehicles.
- Carry Basic Equipment: Always keep simple equipment, a spare tyre, a first aid kit, and adequate drinking water.
- Lane Discipline: Follow the left lane unless overtaking and make your turn indicators in advance.
Final Words
Choosing the right car to travel down highways in India means effectively balancing safety, comfort and fuel efficiency. Every car mentioned here offers something in particular, depending on individual preferences and budget requirements. Be it which car you pick, safe driving with regular servicing ensures fun highway journeys. Buckle up and take the road!