Getting older means enjoying the wisdom that comes from experience. It also means our preferences and needs change—and this is especially true for seniors in the market for a new vehicle.
Seniors will want to consider plenty of things that another buyer doesn’t. SUVs are often an ideal choice as they provide many needed features to keep you comfortable and safe behind the wheel. When looking at the best SUVs for seniors, you must know what to look for.
Considerations for Senior Car Buyers
Seniors have different needs than other SUV buyers. While everyone wants to be comfortable and safe, there are certain features that will benefit seniors most. Before you decide on an SUV, some things to consider are:
- Getting larger windows for better visibility
- Wider doors to get in and out more easily
- Cost of maintenance
- Size and maneuverability
- Safety features and crash test ratings
- Adjustable driver seat and steering wheel
- Active driver assist features like blind spot monitoring and lane-keep assist
- Seats at or close to hip level for comfort and accessibility
Keeping this list in mind will allow you to understand what you need to be safe and comfortable behind the wheel of your SUV. Ensure the seat is comfortable, you have unobstructed views, and you understand how to use all the driver assist aids.
The Best SUVs For Seniors
The SUVs described below all have great safety ratings, a seat that sits right about hip height, wide doors for easy accessibility, good all-around visibility, comfortable seats, and driver assist features. These are features that seniors agree provide the best, most comfortable driving experience.
Volvo XC40
Volvo is a brand trusted for safety. Their compact SUV, the Volvo XC40, offers a smooth ride that will take you places in comfort. Recently updated, this model now has an impressively large touchscreen which encourages ease of use.
The XC40 boasts many safety and driver-assist features. You get blind-spot monitoring, cross-traffic monitoring, and even a really interesting new feature that can recognize traffic signs within a certain proximity. The big windows help with visibility, and the XC40 has wonderfully responsive handling. This Volvo is also offered in a hybrid powertrain and an all-electric powertrain, either of which will cut down gas costs and the cost of maintenance.
The XC40 feels luxurious and starts at a reasonable $36,350.
Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is a classic for a reason. The seats have you sitting upright with clear visibility, and the positioning helps mitigate any potential problems that arise from sitting for too long. The steering is responsive and the suspension is on the softer side, making this an ideal choice for those with bad backs or who want to avoid any jarring movements.
With a hefty array of standard and optional safety features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking, you can rest assured you are driving a safe vehicle.
You can also find this SUV in a hybrid model, which will save you on gas and upkeep, though the traditional drive train still gets you excellent gas mileage. Starting at a base price of around $27,110, this feature-rich SUV will get you where you’re going with ease.
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is another trusted SUV, and it recently received some updates to make it even more appealing. The new, larger infotainment screen is easy to decipher, simple controls make it easy to use, and the interior has a feeling of well-appointed richness. The Highlander is also full of attractive safety features, such as a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, road sign assist, and automatic high beams.
With comfy chairs, easy handling, and seats positioned for clear visibility when driving, this is a great choice for a senior who likes to get around in style.
The Highlander, like others on our list, offers a hybrid power train so you save on gas and save the environment. Whether you choose a hybrid or the newly updated traditional V-6, the starting price of $36,620 is reasonable on almost any budget.
Honorable Mentions
There are a few more SUVs that weren’t in our top three, but they are also great options for a senior in the market for an SUV. These also have exceptional safety features, a good driver’s seat position, allow great visibility, and offer plenty of features that contribute to your comfort:
- Subaru Forester
- Kia Sorento
- Honda Pilot
- Nissan Rogue
- Hyundai Santa Fe
The Best SUVs for Seniors Meet Many Needs
While these SUVs are just a small sample of those available, they are the best SUVs for seniors. Due to their reliability, safety features, and overall driving experience, any senior in the market for an SUV should have these on their list.