Highway driving in Australia is unlike anywhere else in the world. With long stretches of open road, variable speed limits, and sometimes hundreds of kilometres between towns, the vehicle you choose can make a huge difference. A great highway car needs to balance comfort for long journeys, power for overtaking, and fuel efficiency to keep costs down.
Whether you’re commuting daily on freeways, taking family road trips, or touring the Outback, the right car can reduce fatigue, improve safety, and even save money in the long run. This guide takes a deep dive into the best cars for highway driving in Australia across multiple categories—sedans, SUVs, hybrids, EVs, and performance models—while highlighting what features matter most.
What Makes a Car Great for Highway Driving?
Not every car is cut out for long-distance cruising. Here are the key attributes to consider when evaluating highway-friendly vehicles:
Comfort & Seating
Spending hours on the road demands supportive, well-padded seats with lumbar adjustment. Extra legroom, premium materials, and adjustable driving positions make a huge difference for fatigue reduction.
Cabin Quietness
At 100–110 km/h, road and wind noise can become intrusive. Cars with insulated cabins, acoustic glass, and quiet powertrains help maintain a relaxed environment.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel stops in rural Australia can be sparse and costly. Efficient petrol, diesel, hybrid, and EV models ensure longer stretches between refuels or recharges.
Safety & Technology
Highway driving requires advanced driver-assist features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and autonomous emergency braking. These technologies not only improve safety but also reduce mental load on long trips.
Performance & Stability
Overtaking on country highways demands adequate power. Cars with smooth acceleration, stable handling, and strong braking inspire confidence on long stretches.
Best Sedans for Highway Driving
Sedans remain a favourite for highway cruising thanks to their low stance, stability, and efficiency.
Toyota Camry Hybrid
The Camry Hybrid has long been a top pick for Australians covering serious mileage. Its 2.5L petrol-electric hybrid system delivers impressive fuel economy (around 4.5L/100km) while maintaining smooth, quiet performance. Add Toyota’s reputation for reliability and spacious rear seating, and it’s hard to beat.
Why it shines on highways:
- Exceptional fuel efficiency
- Quiet hybrid powertrain
- Comfortable seating for long trips
Hyundai Sonata N Line
For drivers who want a bit more performance, the Sonata N Line blends turbocharged power with comfort. The 2.5L turbo engine provides quick acceleration for overtaking, while highway stability is excellent thanks to Hyundai’s chassis tuning.
Why it shines on highways:
- Sporty performance for long road trips
- Advanced safety and driver assistance tech
- Sleek design for buyers wanting style
Honda Accord Hybrid
The Accord Hybrid offers luxury-like refinement at a mainstream price. Its hybrid system balances strong acceleration with outstanding fuel economy. Spacious interiors and premium finishes make it a great choice for business or family highway travellers.
Best SUVs for Highway Driving
Australians love SUVs, and many are perfect for long highway stretches, offering elevated views, space, and comfort.
Mazda CX-5
The CX-5 consistently ranks as one of the best-selling SUVs in Australia. Its diesel option, in particular, delivers great highway efficiency and torque. Inside, it’s all about premium comfort, intuitive tech, and excellent noise insulation.
Why it shines on highways:
- Refined ride quality
- Diesel efficiency for long drives
- Premium cabin design
Hyundai Santa Fe
For families needing space, the Santa Fe provides seating for seven while maintaining excellent highway manners. Its mix of petrol, diesel, and hybrid options means flexibility depending on budget and driving style.
Why it shines on highways:
- Spacious family comfort
- Good towing capacity for caravans
- Strong safety tech suite
Toyota Kluger Hybrid
The Kluger Hybrid is perfect for road trips where fuel economy and space both matter. With Toyota’s hybrid system and generous interior room, it delivers efficiency without compromising comfort.
Best Hatchbacks for Highway Driving
While not always thought of as highway cruisers, modern hatchbacks can be surprisingly capable on long trips.
Volkswagen Golf
The VW Golf blends premium build quality with highway efficiency. Smooth ride comfort, quiet cabins, and efficient turbo engines make it one of the best small cars for long journeys.
Toyota Corolla Hybrid
For budget-conscious buyers, the Corolla Hybrid is unbeatable. Fuel use hovers around 4.0L/100km, and Toyota’s advanced safety features are standard across the range.
Best Electric Vehicles (EVs) for Highway Driving
With charging infrastructure improving across Australia, EVs are becoming more practical for highway trips.
Tesla Model 3 Long Range
Offering over 600 km of WLTP range, the Model 3 Long Range makes highway EV travel realistic. Tesla’s Supercharger network also provides confidence for road trips.
Hyundai Ioniq 6
Aerodynamic design and long-range efficiency make the Ioniq 6 an excellent EV choice. It’s stylish, spacious, and filled with advanced driver assistance features.
Polestar 2
The Polestar 2 combines Scandinavian comfort with strong EV performance. Its highway handling is sharp, while range remains competitive with other premium EVs.
Best Hybrid Cars for Highway Driving
Hybrids are ideal for drivers who want fuel efficiency without range anxiety.
- Toyota Camry Hybrid – already mentioned, remains the benchmark.
- Honda Accord Hybrid – smooth and luxurious.
- Lexus ES 300h – a luxury sedan with outstanding refinement and economy.
Best Performance Cars for Highway Driving
Sometimes highway driving is about enjoyment as much as efficiency.
BMW 3 Series
The BMW 330i is renowned for its balance of performance and comfort. With sharp handling, turbocharged engines, and premium interiors, it’s perfect for spirited highway driving.
Audi A6
For luxury highway travel, the Audi A6 blends advanced tech, comfort, and quattro all-wheel drive stability.
Best Budget-Friendly Cars for Highway Driving
Not everyone has the budget for luxury sedans or SUVs, but that doesn’t mean you need to compromise.
- Kia Cerato – affordable, reliable, and comfortable.
- Hyundai i30 – efficient, durable, and packed with features.
- Mitsubishi Outlander – family SUV with hybrid options and good highway comfort.
Key Highway Driving Features to Look For
When shopping for the perfect car, keep an eye out for these features:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane-keep assist and lane departure warning
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Comfortable, supportive seats
- Dual-zone or tri-zone climate control
- Efficient powertrain (diesel, hybrid, or long-range EV)
- Quiet cabin with good sound insulation
Conclusion: Finding the Right Highway Car for You
The best highway driving car for you will depend on your budget, lifestyle, and driving patterns. If fuel efficiency is the top priority, hybrids and EVs are excellent choices. For families, large SUVs with hybrid or diesel engines provide space and comfort. Drivers who want a balance of refinement and performance may lean toward sedans like the Camry Hybrid, Honda Accord, or premium European models.
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
