Skip to main content

We often discuss performance, equipment, comfort, and features, but we don’t often cover which new cars are best for your commute. Some of us face long commutes from city to city, while others might only need to cross town to get to work. Either way, you want a vehicle that’s right for the type of driving you do during your commute and when the workweek ends. What are some of the best car choices offered?

What qualities should be part of the best new cars for your commute?

If you drive many miles to work every day, the commuter car you drive should be:

The car you drive to work might be used for a carpool or driving kids to school before you head off to work. Even though commuting is the primary use of the vehicle, you need it to fit your family’s needs as well.

The Toyota Sienna can be the best vehicle for large families and your commute

White 2023 Toyota Sienna minivan
2023 Toyota Sienna | Toyota

You might not initially think of a minivan as the vehicle that makes commuting right for you, but the Sienna offers 36 city/36 hwy mpg, which puts it in the running. You’ll find an extensive array of options to add what you want to this minivan. Some of these features are:

  • Power rear liftgate
  • Multiple power adapters
  • Rear-seat entertainment system

The Toyota Sienna receives a top safety rating from the IIHS, and it’s extremely versatile. This minivan can be good for your commute and great for your family.

One of the best new cars for your commute can be the Kia Soul

A blue 2023 Kia Soul subcompact SUV is parked.
The 2023 Kia Soul | Kia

The Kia Soul often straddles the line between being a hatchback and a subcompact SUV. Regardless of how you view it, this small car is ideal when your commute takes you across town. The fuel mileage is 27 city/32 hwy mpg, which isn’t stellar. The small size and maneuverability of the Soul make it easy to drive in the city. Some of the best features of this Kia are:

  • The connective infotainment system
  • Safety features
  • A premium sound system

The Honda Accord is one of the most comfortable commuter cars in the market

A red 2022 Honda Accord Hybrid is shown at right front 3/4 view with trees in the background.
2022 Honda Accord Hybrid | Honda

The midsize sedan class has been a staple of commuters everywhere. If you want to buy one of the best new cars for your commute, the Honda Accord should be near the top of your list. This midsize sedan delivers 30 city/38 hwy mpg and offers you some of the most comfortable seats. This sedan also brings a 5-star safety rating from the NHTSA and features you’ll admire, including:

  • Heated seats
  • Satellite Radio
  • Push-button starting
  • A premium sound system

Could your daily commute be where the Toyota Prius shines?

The 2022 Toyota Prius parked on a snowy road.
2022 Toyota Prius Nightshade Edition | Joe Santos, MotorBiscuit

The Toyota Prius is an excellent choice for city commutes when you want the highest fuel mileage offered. This small hybrid sedan gives you 52 city/47 hwy mpg when you’re ready to cross your city during your commute. The Prius might not be your first choice, but it should be on your list when you want one of the best new cars for your commute. The Prius brings you:

  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • Forward collision mitigation
  • Road sign recognition
  •  Lane departure warning

Is the Ford Mustang Mach-E one of the best new cars for your commute?

Red 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E electric SUV posed
Red 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E | Ford

Can the performance-oriented Mustang Mach-E SUV offer you the drive you want every day? Yes, this electric SUV could be ideal for your daily drive. This Ford offers a driving range of 305 miles, which is much more than most of us drive every day. If you’re ready to step into the EV market, the Ford Mustang Mach-E can be ideal for your commute and some fun when the workweek ends. This SUV delivers:

  • Sleek design with sporty handling
  • Quiet daily drive
  • Excellent safety scores
  • Top-notch comfort and technology

Next, check out some car maintenance items every driver should know, or watch some of the best commuter cars in the video below:

This article was updated on 12/8/2022.

Related

2022 Honda Civic Sport vs. Civic Sport Touring: What are the Differences?