Ever since the film 'Dil Chahta Hai' dropped in India, it's been one of the most watched and appreciated films of all time. An offshoot of the film was that it gave India a redoubled desire for road trips. Road trips in India, however, may never always be as simple and smooth as they seem. In a similar way as backpackers run into several hurdles on their trips, car trips in their turn have their own set of obstructions. In order to traverse India's varied terrain, long road excursions require a car that comes packed with comfort, dependability, and performance. The appropriate car may make all the difference, whether you're driving on motorways or off-the-beaten-path mountain trails. These five vehicles, each with its own special strengths, are ideal for lengthy trips throughout India.
On account of its post reputation and toughness for its off-road aptitude, the Land Rover Defender comes in as a great choice for traversing the diversely difficult terrain of India. I took a week-long trip in the car along the western coastline starting from Bangalore going all the way up till Goa, the car never ceased to surprise with its compatibility with the various terrains we came across. From the muddy roads running along the ocean in Udupi to the verdant hills of Kerala as well as the sporadic rough terrain in Goa, the car sailed successfully. Defender's sophisticated terrain response technologies provide stability and control on rugged mountain trails as well as roads. It can easily handle potholes, river crossings, and steep inclines because of its high ground clearance and sturdy construction. Unmatched comfort is offered by the roomy and opulent interior, and driving enjoyment is increased by features like adjustable suspension and all-wheel drive. You can purchase this car starting at INR 1.19 crore in India.
A long-time favourite among road-trippers, the Toyota Innova Hycross combines spaciousness and reliability. Its comfortable seating for up to seven passengers, along with excellent suspension and high-speed stability, ensures a smooth ride even on uneven roads. The hybrid powertrain makes it fuel-efficient, while the large boot space easily accommodates all your luggage. Safety features such as multiple airbags, stability control, and ABS make it a dependable companion for families and groups venturing on long-distance adventures. You can buy it in India at INR 19.72 lacs.
In the SUV market, the Mahindra XUV700 redefines performance and comfort, making it perfect for long-distance travel. Its strong engine, which can be turbocharged, provides enough power to pass and climb steep hills. Its 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control, and 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system will appeal to tech-savvy tourists. Peace of mind on long journeys is guaranteed by the XUV700's sturdy construction and contemporary safety features, including seven airbags and lane-keeping assistance. The car can be brought on-road at the cost of INR 19.65 lacs.
The Maruti Suzuki Jimny strikes one as a compact and swift affair on the first look. For road journeys to unusual places, the Maruti Suzuki Jimny is the ideal car because it is small, tough, and designed for adventure. It is ideal for navigating muddy paths, tight mountain passes, and mountainous terrain because of its lightweight design and all-wheel-drive system. The Jimny's strong off-road capabilities are guaranteed by its 4x4 drivetrain and exceptional ground clearance. Notwithstanding its small size, the cabin's clever design allows for comfortable seating for four people and plenty of space for necessary belongings. It is a great option for both couples and daring single travellers because of its dependable performance and agile handling. The car’s on road price in India is INR 13 lacs.
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno is a good option for people who value fuel economy and an urban-friendly design. The Baleno is well-known for its exceptional mileage of up to 22.94 km/l, which helps to control fuel expenses when travelling long distances. Five passengers may be accommodated in the roomy cabin, while weekend bags and other travel necessities can be easily stored in the 318-liter trunk. It is a sensible and affordable option for both city roads and highways because of its quick engine and seamless suspension system. Its on-road price in India ranges from INR 6.66 lacs to INR 9.83 lacs.