When it comes to road trips, not all sedans are created equal. Mid-size sedans offer a sweet spot between compact efficiency and full-size comfort, making them ideal for long drives. In this guide, we’ll cover five top-value mid-size sedans that provide spacious interiors, impressive fuel economy, and thoughtful accessories for the modern road-tripper.
What Makes a Great Road Trip Sedan?
Before diving into specific models, here’s what we looked for:
- Spacious cabin and trunk for passengers and luggage
- Strong fuel economy for long-distance affordability
- Comfort and tech like smooth suspension and Apple CarPlay
- Road-trip accessories like built-in USB ports, sunshades, and good phone mount placement
1. Toyota Camry (2021–2024)
Why it’s great: The Camry continues to be a reliable choice with a roomy interior and solid hybrid option.
Pros:
- Up to 53 MPG (Hybrid model)
- Excellent safety features and smooth ride
- Long-term reliability and resale value
Cons:
- Higher trims can get pricey
- Some drivers find it lacks personality
2. Honda Accord (2020–2023)
Why it’s great: With best-in-class rear legroom and trunk space, the Accord shines for families and long drives.
Pros:
- 16.7 cu ft trunk – one of the largest in class
- Strong engine performance with turbo options
- Quiet, refined ride
Cons:
- Sport trims have firmer suspension
- Infotainment system can feel outdated
3. Hyundai Sonata (2021–2024)
Why it’s great: An underrated gem with great tech and standout design.
Pros:
- Lots of standard features for the price
- Sleek, upscale cabin feel
- Highway driving assist on SEL+ and up
Cons:
- Base engine can feel underpowered
- Smaller backseat than competitors
4. Kia K5 (2021–2024)
Why it’s great: Kia’s take on the mid-size sedan brings flair, power, and value.
Pros:
- Turbocharged engine standard
- Heated seats and remote start even on mid trims
- High-end tech in GT-Line
Cons:
- Less rear headroom
- Fuel economy is average for class
5. Mazda6 (2018–2021)
Why it’s great: Sporty driving meets refined cabin in Mazda’s stylish sedan.
Pros:
- Premium-feeling interior
- Agile handling for twisty scenic roads
- Strong safety ratings
Cons:
- Smaller trunk than rivals
- Discontinued in 2021, so harder to find new
Comparison Table
| Sedan | MPG (Highway) | Trunk Space (cu ft) | Standout Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Camry | 53 (Hybrid) | 15.1 | Toyota Safety Sense |
| Honda Accord | 38 | 16.7 | Spacious rear seating |
| Hyundai Sonata | 37 | 16.0 | Highway driving assist |
| Kia K5 | 38 | 16.0 | Sporty turbocharged engine |
| Mazda6 | 35 | 14.7 | Premium interior feel |
Best Accessories for Road Trips
- iOttie Easy One Touch 5 Phone Mount
Keeps your phone stable and hands-free. - EcoNour Windshield Sun Shade
Keeps cabin cool during sunny stops. - Drive Auto Products Trunk Organizer
Stores snacks, gear, and emergency items cleanly. - Anker Dual USB Car Charger
Fast charges multiple phones or tablets. - Foval 200W Car Power Inverter
Power laptops and other devices on the go.
FAQs
Q1: Are mid-size sedans comfortable for long road trips?
Yes, especially models like the Accord and Camry that offer exceptional seat comfort, legroom, and quiet cabins.
Q2: Should I get a hybrid version for road trips?
Hybrid sedans like the Toyota Camry Hybrid or Sonata Hybrid can help save significantly on fuel during long-distance driving.
Q3: What about infotainment systems for navigation and music?
Most newer mid-size sedans offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Be sure to check which trim levels include them.