If you’ve got a long journey coming up, you want a car that’s going to be comfortable for long ride, yet durable and fuel-efficient as well. Both used cars and new cars can provide these features for you, although used cars in particular are going to need to be well maintained to do so.

Fuel efficiency: basic tips

Almost every car can be made more fuel-efficient simply by following a few simple road rules. Make sure your car as well maintained so that you get the best fuel economy possible. In addition, this is going to help make sure you stay safe and won’t have breakdowns during your trip. Check and make sure your fuel filter, spark plugs, and air filter are properly operating, and get them cleaned or replaced if necessary. This alone can increase your mileage by about 10%. Replacing your oxygen sensor as necessary could give you a fuel efficiency increase of about 40%. In addition, make sure you follow manufacturers’ instructions as to the type of fuel and oil you use.

Tyres, too, should be properly inflated; check your owner’s manual to determine the proper pressure. Properly inflated tyres can give you as much as 3% fuel efficiency improvement.

Minimize your load

Especially if you’re going to be travelling long distances, it’s likely that you’ll carry a lot of gear with you. However, over packing your car can make your car much heavier, with every 100 pounds robbing you of as much as 2% in fuel economy. It’s also simply harder on your car and your tyres, so go light whenever possible.

It’s an unfortunate fact that most affordable car models skimp on car seat construction, which make them relatively uncomfortable rides. You can, however, get used cars in more expensive (but still reasonable) models like Saab or Volvo. Well maintained, these used cars can be just as affordable as their budget counterparts in new cars, but have a much more comfortable ride and sit. New cars in of these brands will of course be a little bit more expensive, but worth your money.

For another comfort option, you can order specialized car seats from a manufacturer called Recaro and then install them in your current car.

The best car models for long journeys

Different models of cars will provide affordability, durability, comfort and fuel efficiency; let’s take a look at two beyond the Saab or Volvo.

The Nissan Qashqai

The Nissan Qashqai is a vehicle that fulfils both comfort and style specifications, and it’s affordable. It comes in two-wheel drive model although it looks like a four-wheel drive; if you buy this from the used cars listings, you can save significantly over new retail price. It’s got plenty of legroom and headroom, has a height adjustable steering wheel and driver’s seat, a nice sized boot, and extra comfort features included as part of the standard package, such as electric windows, air conditioning, and alloy wheels, as well as Bluetooth connectivity. This is a good, sturdy and comfortable car for the price and very efficient on mileage, getting about 42 miles per gallon. Prices start at about 14,000 new.

The Skoda Roomster

This car is a little smaller and sportier than the Nissan mentioned above, but this Skoda car is as efficient and sturdy as its manufacturer suggests. It has an adjustable steering wheel and an upright driving position; although interior room especially in the back seat is a little bit tight, it has a good sized boot and gets about 39 miles per gallon. Electric front windows and CD are standard for the price, 13,010 for new cars.

Find out more on used cars and new cars on www.arnoldclark.com.