Key Takeaways
- Price and reliability are important to drivers of all ages, but certain features gain importance as we age.
- For instance, some senior drivers need to look for vehicles that are easy to enter and exit.
- Other retired drivers might prioritize safety features, unfussy tech, comfortable seats, or sporty style.
Before car shopping, older drivers and retirees should take stock of their current needs. Perhaps you’re trading a daily commute for longer road trips. Maybe you’ll be hauling grandkids around. From great gas mileage to plenty of seating, your needs shape the features you should prioritize.
With this in mind, here are 10 great cars for senior drivers with a variety of needs. Whether you want a sedan, SUV, sports car, or pickup truck, this list covers all the bases.
Toyota Camry
- MSRP: $25,845 – $36,270
The Toyota Camry checks a lot of boxes: it’s reliable, comfortable, fuel efficient, and easy to drive. No wonder it’s been the best-selling car in the U.S. for two decades. And after its recent redesign, the Camry swapped its traditional look for a sleeker design.
Older drivers who have trouble getting in and out of low vehicles should know that the current Camry sits lower than previous models. So, check that out before buying. But as long as that’s not a concern, it’s a great choice for seniors looking for a good value and safe drive.
Source: ToyotaHonda CR-V
- MSRP: $26,800 – $37,800
If sedans are a challenge to get in and out of, then consider a small SUV. The Honda CR-V, for example, falls in the sweet spot of not sitting too low or too high. Consumer Reports says it also has “wide door openings,” making entering and exiting even easier.
The CR-V is a practical choice in other ways, too. For one thing, it has efficient fuel economy. And then there’s the roomy back seat and cargo space. So, it’s a good choice for seniors who haul grandkids around — or those who like to stock up at Costco.
Source: HondaKia Forte
- MSRP: $19,090 – $24,490
Seniors on a tight budget should consider the Kia Forte. That’s because it looks more expensive than its price. As Car and Driver puts it, the Forte reminds them of the old saying, “champagne taste on a beer budget.”
While the source says the Forte lags somewhat in performance, it could be an excellent fit for older drivers who care more about saving money than an exciting drive. Additionally, it has a comfortable interior and good cargo space.
Source: KiaDodge Challenger
- MSRP: $30,430 – $64,830
After years of working hard, you might feel like rewarding yourself with a fun ride. But which muscle or sports car makes the most sense for seniors? The Dodge Challenger has a lot going for it, including its retro style and surprisingly practical design.
For instance, it sits higher than many coupes. As a result, it’s easier to get in and out of than you might expect. And Car and Driver says its back seat is roomier than competitors. So, it has enough room for grandkids.
Source: DodgeSubaru Legacy
- MSRP: $23,495 – $36,695
The Subaru Legacy is another sedan worth considering. It’s “sensible, comfortable, quiet, and easy to live with in almost every way,” according to Consumer Reports. For instance, the infotainment system is intuitive. So, drivers don’t need to be tech-savvy to use it.
And seniors who have to drive in snowy conditions will appreciate that all-wheel drive is a standard feature. Since all-wheel drive is typically an optional drivetrain for sedans that costs more, the Legacy is a bargain for seniors who prefer sedans to SUVs.
Source: SubaruToyota Avalon Hybrid
- MSRP: $36,825 – $44,150
Interested in buying an electric vehicle or hybrid? Then the Toyota Avalon Hybrid should be on your radar. U.S. News & World Report praises its “pillowy ride, easy entry and exit, high-end cabin and comfortable seating.”
While the hybrid model costs more, the source figures you could save about $4,000 in gas over five years “given current gas prices.” And despite the comparatively high price tag, Consumer Reports calls the Avalon a “sensible alternative to higher-priced luxury cars.”
Source: ToyotaChevrolet Colorado
- MSRP: $25,735 – $44,500
Pickup trucks can be budget busters, but the Chevrolet Colorado is more affordable than many trucks on the market. That means it could be a great fit for seniors who want to save money. Older drivers also might appreciate that it’s on the smaller side.
As Consumer Reports explains, small trucks are “easier to park and maneuver and cost less to feed than full-sized behemoths.” Importantly, the smaller size doesn’t mean sacrificing towing capacity. U.S. News & World Report says it has a “class-leading tow rating.”
Source: ChevroletHyundai Tucson
- MSRP: $24,950 – $43,200
Much like the CR-V, the Hyundai Tucson sits at a convenient height for entering and exiting. Where the Tucson distinguishes itself is its fresh look. Consumer Reports praises its bold redesign, even saying it “now outshines several segment mainstays, including the Nissan Rogue and Toyota RAV4.”
The Tucson also stands out among compact SUVs for its plethora of standard safety features. For example, U.S. News & World Report says its standard driver assistance features include a rearview camera, pedestrian detection, driver drowsiness monitoring, lane-keep assist, and forward collision warning.
Source: HyundaiNissan Sentra
- MSRP: $19,950 – $22,700
If you have a strict budget, then the Nissan Sentra is a worthy option. Car and Driver says the Sentra is “handsome inside and outside.” So like the Kia Forte, it looks great for the money. It also has efficient fuel economy, which can help drivers save money in the future.
And even though it’s an economical choice, Nissan didn’t skimp on the Sentra’s driver assistance technology. For example, the source says standard features include forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, automated emergency braking, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Source: NissanSubaru Forester
- MSRP: $25,895 – $35,995
The Subaru Forester is another top compact SUV for seniors. “Part of the Forester’s success,” Kelley Blue Book explains, “has been the standard all-wheel-drive system — while still competing price-wise with 2-wheel-drive rivals.”
As far as technology goes, its multimedia system includes smartphone integration, satellite radio, and, notably, a CD player. The latter is rare these days, so it’s a great fit for drivers who listen to CDs. The Forester also has excellent visibility, cargo space, and easy access.
Source: Subaru
