Commuting to work can often feel like a real drag. But one way to make that journey easier is to do so in a car that keeps us as comfortable as possible.
Fortunately, manufacturers know how important cars are to our daily lives. This means that many of them are incredibly comfortable, perfect for those traveling a longer distance.
This list contains some of those genuinely excellent long-distance commuter cars that ensure you will arrive at work feeling comfortable and ready for the day ahead.
BMW 5 Series
BMW knows a thing or two about comfortable cars. One of the best offerings for commuters is the current BMW 5 Series, a mid-size sedan that offers plenty of luxury, performance, and practicality.
At the core of the range are the 530i, 530i xDrive, and 540i equivalents. With starting prices of around $58,200, they aren’t the cheapest on the market, but you know you’re getting an excellent sedan for that money.
Toyota Prius
There is a lot to love about the latest Toyota Prius. For starters, it’s a stunning-looking machine. Toyota’s incredible redesign truly raised the game when it came to hybrid sedans.
Then there is how practical it is. With a combined MPG of 57, the Prius will get you to and from work, even on longer distances, without worrying about filling up. At the time of writing, the 2024 Prius is also incredibly affordable, starting at just $27,950.
Toyota GR86
Commuting can be a dull affair. But there are cars out there to make it a little more entertaining while not sacrificing any of the comfort you would expect. The Toyota GR86 might seem an odd choice, but this is the perfect sports car for any commuter.
The key to the GR86 is its fun and agile handling, which makes it a joy in the corners. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine under the hood produces 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Best of all, the GR86 costs just $29,950 MSRP.
Hyundai Ioniq 5
Electric cars are becoming much more popular for commuting than ever before. Take the Hyundai Ioniq 5, for example. Not only does it look incredible, but with 303 miles of maximum range, it is also great for those who commute over a longer distance.
The Ioniq 5 also starts at just $41,800. For a mid-size crossover with an electric powertrain, that is quite a good deal. Hyundai continued to elevate its game with the Ioniq 6, the 5’s successor.
Mazda CX-5
While the MX-5 Miata might be the highlight of Mazda’s lineup, the Japanese manufacturer can produce an excellent daily driver. The current CX-5, with its starting price of just $29,300, is one of the most affordable in its class, and it offers excellent value for money.
The interior is a real highlight, and it is much better than it has ever been at this price point. Plus, the 10.2-inch digital touchscreen is one of the best on any modern vehicle.
Honda Ridgeline
A Honda pickup truck might seem like an odd choice for a long-distance commuter vehicle. Yet the Ridgeline is often seen as the “pickup that isn’t a pickup,” as it acts more like a large family SUV than a truck.
Ironically, it is that quality that makes the Ridgeline so good. Its MSRP of $40,150 at the time of writing is excellent compared to some of its rivals. All-wheel drive is available as an option, and you get SUV-like qualities yet with the bonus of that large pickup bed.
Hyundai Ioniq 6
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is just as good, if not better than the Ioniq 5. Hyundai took the same E-GMP platform as used with the Ioniq 5 and created a radical crossover with a low, sleek, and streamlined design that can run for up to 342 miles.
Plus, it’s currently cheaper than the Ioniq 5, with an MSRP of $37,750. The EV’s shape not only makes it look good, but it also has a phenomenal drag coefficient of just 0.21. This means that, combined with the E-GMP platform, the Ioniq 6 is incredibly efficient.
Acura Integra
While it might look like a new Honda Civic in fancier clothing, the revived Acura Integra has quietly gone about its business, proving itself as an excellent luxury car. Plus, with an MSRP of $33,000, it’s one of the most affordable in the segment, and you get excellent Hodna reliability.
Power comes from a 200-horsepower 1.5-liter VTEC turbocharged engine, but the 2.0-liter VTEC turbo Type S can produce up to 320 horses. The Integra looks excellent, with a smart and modern design. Inside, it’s spacious, quiet, comfortable, and very stylish.
Tesla Model 3
While some might find the Tesla Model 3 boring, Elon Musk’s antics notwithstanding, it regularly proves itself to be an excellent electric vehicle.
Currently, the Tesla Model 3 will set you back around $29,990 with that, including the $7,500 Federal Tax Credit and the estimated five-year gas savings of $5,000. The standard long-range rear-wheel-drive Model 3 has a top speed of 125 mph and a range of 363 miles.
Honda Civic
If you want something like the Acura Integra but don’t want to pay over $30,000, then maybe the latest Honda Civic is the car for you. The legendary Honda sedan retails at just $24,250, making it one of the bargains of the year.
Fuel mileage is excellent, with 32 MPG in the city and 41 MPH on the highway. A 200 horsepower hybrid powertrain is also available, and the interior is fantastic. It’s comfortable and spacious, allows plenty of daylight, and all essential controls are within easy reach for the driver.