Whether it's a holiday on the other side of the country (or heading into Europe), taking your pride and joy to university for the first time, or visiting family, many of us take long-distance journeys these days. If you're going to be heading up and down the motorways quite a lot, you'll need a car that can go the distance AND keep you comfortable the whole way there.We've rounded up some of the best cars for fuel consumption and comfort, so you can sit back, see what suits you best and then start planning your road trip playlist. BMW 5 Series Starting this list with a strong entry from BMW, the 2017 5 Series is a formidable contender in the executive saloon class thanks to its style, technology, handling and comfort.With 0.99m for headroom and 1.05m legroom in the front (0.95m and 0.93m in the back), the 5 series gives plenty of space for passengers on long drives - although it is worth noting the prominent gearbox takes some of the legroom away from the rear-middle passenger. The seats themselves provide great support and comfort, and the interior is finished with the precision and luxury you'd expect from the German manufacturer.The average mpg you're looking at with the BMW 5 Series is 43.5 mpg (miles per gallon), and every BMW 5 Series comes with a supportive driver's seat, with electric seat height and backrest adjustment. Depending on the model, electrically adjustable lumbar support and memory for different driving positions may be available. Enormous armrests add that extra level of comfort for long journeys. The 5 Series also comes equipped with a 12.3inch screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, sat-nav and DAB radio for in-car entertainment, and of course, cruise control. View All 5 Series > Volvo XC90The Volvo XC90, The Volvo XC90 is a premium seven-seater SUV celebrated for its spaciousness, safety, and comfort. Ideal for families, it offers ample room in all three rows, with seats that fold flat to accommodate larger items when needed. This practicality is matched by luxury, with features like a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, climate control, and Volvo's renowned safety tech. Fuel-efficient mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid options make it economical for long journeys, while its refined design ensures every drive is comfortable and stress-free. The XC90 perfectly balances versatility and sophistication. View All XC90 > Ford Focus The Ford Focus remains a standout choice for families, combining reliability, a practical load area, and an enjoyable driving experience. Its refined design and clean interior finish make it a versatile option for both daily commutes and longer trips. With an average fuel economy of around 50 mpg for newer models, the Focus remains efficient for its class. Standard features include air conditioning, USB connectivity, and Bluetooth, with higher trims like the Titanium adding extras such as dual-zone climate control, automatic lights and wipers, and a heated windscreen. The Zetec and ST-Line trims offer sporty touches and additional tech for enhanced driving pleasure. Steering and handling remain highlights of the Focus, with precise, responsive controls that outshine many competitors, making it both fun and practical for drivers who value performance as much as comfort. View All Focus > Jaguar XE Moving into luxury cars, the wide, low XE from Jaguar is described as having a "muscular stance and a stylish presence" and is certainly at home on the open road.With a decent mpg of 46.4, the XE ranks highly for ride comfort and sheer joy of driving, although any passengers in the back may remark on the limited space. The low profile impacts upon the headroom, with 0.94m for front and rear passengers; while those in the front benefit from 1.05m of legroom, those in the back will have to make do with 0.89m.Cruise control, navigation and automatic lights & wipers come as standard, while the Prestige trim brings sports suspension and the Portfolio spec has an upgraded multimedia system and electrically-adjustable front seats. Skoda Superb The Skoda Superb is a large hatchback, offering its driver and front passenger a comfortable 1.0m headroom and 1.04m legroom, and 0.98m headroom for those in the back. With an impressive 660-litre boot (1,950 litres when the back seats are down), it's ideal for ferrying around bikes, luggage or your furry friend.As well as its size, the Superb is a comfortable, quiet and relaxing car to drive, and averages 46.7mpg. Some may say the Superb is more functional than fun to drive, which may come as a disappointment to some but is ideal for those looking for a practical family car.Navigation and front parking sensors come as standard on the Mk3 (2015 onwards), and the Laurin & Klement trims both feature three-zone climate control and heated windscreens. Vauxhall Astra The Vauxhall Astra is a good drive with a large boot and ample passenger space (0.98m headroom and 1.01m legroom in the front, 0.96m and 0.92m in the back).The Astra is a comfortable ride, if a little on the firm side, and is quiet and free from vibrations making it ideal for those longer journeys. It also handles well and the body leans less during cornering than its rivals.The Astra also comes with an impressive engine range and an excellent mpg of 52.3 - the highest on our list. The Astra K, released in 2015, comes with air-con, cruise control and a seven-inch touchscreen as standard, while the Tech Line trim also features heated front seats and sat-nav built into the infotainment centre and the SRi has sports seats and automatic lights and wipers. Some Astras also have seats that provide massages and can cool/heat whoever is sitting in them. View All Astra > How we can help Whether you prioritise fuel efficiency, interior space or comfy seats, we have cars suited to your long-distance needs. Each one is packed with driver conveniences, added safety features and in-car entertainment solutions, so get in touch today or visit one of our 6 dealerships around the Bristol, Weston-super-Mare and Bath areas to find your next car.