How to choose a car for long journeys in Russia

A car for long journeys across Russia must be reliable, comfortable and ready for a variety of road and climate conditions. In 2025, given the vast distances and peculiarities of Russian highways, choosing the right car becomes especially important. As of 10:49am on 2 June 2025, the market offers many models suitable for such tasks. In this article, GetCar.ru and I will analyse how to choose a car for travelling in the Russian Federation, taking into account the key criteria and operating features.

Peculiarities of Russian roads and climate

Russian roads and climate require a special approach to choosing a car. For example, highways can be both high-quality and unpaved, especially in remote regions. Also, winter temperatures in Siberia drop to -40°C, while summer heat in southern regions reaches +40°C. In addition, long distances - for example, 3,000 kilometres from Moscow to Novosibirsk - increase the strain on the car. Understanding these conditions helps you make the right choice.

Key criteria for choosing a car for long journeys in Russia

1. Reliability and passability

Reliability is a major factor for long journeys. For example, brands like Toyota and Subaru are known for their durability, going 300,000 kilometres without major breakdowns. Also, high ground clearance (from 180 mm) and all-wheel drive, like the Subaru Forester, help to cope with bad roads. In addition, the availability of spare parts in the regions simplifies repairs on the road. Reliability ensures safety.

2. Comfort and capacity

Comfort is important for long routes. For example, a spacious interior and a 500+ litre boot like the Toyota RAV4 allows you to take everything you need. Also, the soft suspension and noise insulation reduce fatigue. In addition, climate control and heated seats, like in the Kia Sorento, make the journey comfortable in any weather. Convenience is the key to enjoyable journeys.

3. economy and driving range

Economy reduces costs on the road. For example, diesel engines like in the Volkswagen Tiguan (4.5 litres/100 km) save fuel over long distances. Also, the large fuel tank (60+ litres) increases the range to 800-1000 km. Also, the availability of hybrid models like Toyota Corolla Cross allows you to save money in the city. The savings make travelling more affordable.

Best cars for Russian roads

4. Toyota RAV4 (2019-2023)

Toyota RAV4 is one of the best cars for Russian roads. For example, all-wheel drive and 195 mm ground clearance provide cross-country ability. Also, the 580-litre boot holds travel gear. In addition, the 2.0-litre engine (149 hp) consumes 6.2 l/100 km. The price on the secondary market - from 2 million rubles.

5. Subaru Forester (2018-2022)

The Subaru Forester is ideal for challenging conditions. For example, the X-Mode system and 220 mm ground clearance help on off-road terrain. Also, the interior seats 5 people, and the boot is 509 litres. In addition, the 2.5 litre engine (185 hp) consumes 7.4 litres/100 km. The cost of the used model is about 2.1 million rubles.

6. Kia Sorento (2017-2021)

The Kia Sorento is suitable for family travelling. For example, 7 seats and a 660-litre boot hold everything you need. Also, the 2.2 litre (200 hp) diesel engine consumes 6 litres/100 km. In addition, heated steering wheel and seats add comfort in winter. The price on the secondary market - from 2.3 million rubles.

Additional tips for selection

7. Consideration of route and season

The route and season influence the choice of car. For example, for winter trips in the Urals, cars with four-wheel drive and heating, like Subaru Forester, are suitable. Also for southern routes a powerful air conditioner is important, as in Kia Sorento. In addition, long routes require fuel-efficient models like the Toyota RAV4. Adapting to the conditions increases comfort.

8. Pre-purchase inspection

A pre-purchase check is a must. For example, request a service history through the GIBDD databases to exclude a lien. Also, have the car diagnosed by an expert, evaluating the engine and suspension. In addition, test the car on the motorway to see if it is suitable for long journeys. A thorough inspection reduces the risks.

Conclusion: A reliable travelling companion

Choosing a car for long journeys in Russia in 2025 requires attention to reliability, comfort and economy. Toyota RAV4, Subaru Forester and Kia Sorento are great options for Russian conditions. With GetCar.ru, you'll get recommendations to find the perfect car. Take into account your routes and follow our advice to make travelling across Russia comfortable and safe!