11 Best SUVs for Seniors: The Ultimate Guide

Finding the perfect car can be a pain, especially as a senior. Perhaps you want a sporty look that’s still accessible and affordable. SUVs are ideal for seniors due to their wide doors and low sills.

SUVs’ better visibility makes them easier to drive than cars. However, if you’re worried you won’t find what you need as a senior, don’t be. We’ll look at some of the best SUVs for seniors.

The best senior SUVs are practical and sporty. They have ample space and good visibility. We like the Volvo XC40, Kia Sorento, Land Rover Range Rover, and Subaru Forester.

The 11 Best Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) for Seniors are Listed Below

1.    Volvo XC40 – Our Top Pick

The Volvo XC40 is an attractive and excellent choice for senior citizens seeking an SUV. Its appearance is distinctive in comparison to the other SUVs on this list, which almost feels invigorating.

This car is one of a kind for senior drivers because, despite having many characteristics that are synonymous with Volvo, such as its headlights, it does not have the appearance of a smaller XC60 or XC90.

The entry-level and least expensive model of the XC40 comes equipped with a manual transmission and front-wheel drive; however, buyers also have the option of selecting an all-wheel drive. Two plug-in hybrid models are also available if you’re looking for a more economical car – you’ve got to love a Volvo.

The all-new Volvo XC40 exterior shot.

Standard XC40 models are more comfortable than competitors and offer a smooth ride, which many seniors want. The XC40 is a beautiful, easy-to-drive vehicle. Volvo’s 3-year warranty and reliability make it a great car. Its stylish interior makes driving luxurious and sleek – perfect!

Every single XC40 comes standard with features like traffic sign recognition and blind spot monitoring, both of which contribute to the vehicle’s increased safety and dependability. This sports utility vehicle is trustworthy, dependable, and safe for senior drivers.

2.    Kia Sorento – Our Other Favorite

The Kia Sorento was awarded the title of the best car of 2022 by the publication What Car, solidifying its standing as one of the most highly recommended SUVs for elderly drivers.

The Sorento offers plug-in and self-charging hybrid models, giving you complete control over how to power your vehicle. This indicates that your car is very economical, which is exactly what many seniors find appealing.

The self-leveling rear suspension makes it easier to tow a heavy vehicle, like a trailer or caravan, without compromising the comfort of your trip, and the car is far from uncomfortable.

The weighted steering wheel also gives the driver a strong sense of control when maneuvering the car, especially on tricky roads. The lumbar support in the driver’s seat can be adjusted in four different ways, making it supportive and comfortable for anyone to drive, even seniors.

When you are seated in the driver’s seat, the view that you get out the window is fantastic, and the windscreen pillars don’t significantly obstruct your view. You can see clearly.

Additionally, every Sorento has front and rear parking sensors, which make parking much more straightforward and reduce the amount of head-turning required to see out the back window.

3.    Subaru Forester

The Forester is a small SUV that is also incredibly dependable and trustworthy. All-wheel drive on the Subaru Forester makes navigating those challenging terrains more relaxing and less stressful.

You won’t be bothered by the loud revving because the engine is quiet so the trip will be more comfortable for you as a result. In addition, the noise produced by the tires is kept to a minimum.

Because it has a ground clearance of 220 millimeters, it is not only easily accessible but also able to navigate off-road roots without any difficulty, if that is something that interests you.

Subaru created the Forester with all of its users in mind, giving it a roomy boot that can be opened by simply pressing a button and incredibly comfortable seats that make it an excellent option for families and seniors.

4.    Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is typical of the quality cars that Honda has always made.

The most recent model of the CR-V comes with a hybrid engine, which is frequently simpler to operate and reduces the frequency of trips to the gas station, making it a very cost-effective option for everyone.

2023 Honda CR-V equipped with the HPD feature.

If you choose not to use the hybrid engine, the standard engine still provides 34 mpg on the highway. Any driver can enjoy a stress-free drive thanks to the vehicle’s standard CVT gearbox, which offers automatic movement and is very responsive.

With 198mm of ground clearance, it is a very accessible SUV for older drivers. This car’s soft suspension makes for a comfortable ride by making road imperfections seem to disappear.

In addition to all of these safety features, it also has brake assist, anti-lock brakes, and cross-traffic alerts to ensure that you are as safe as possible while driving it.

5.    Hyundai Santa Fe

The Santa Fe is a great SUV if you’re looking for a large trunk or enough space to fit many passengers. Additionally, with a 176mm ground clearance, it has a low enough ground clearance to be easily accessed by seniors or young children.

It is a versatile drive for everyone because of the precise steering and the numerous off-road modes. The Santa Fe has some excellent safety features like pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assistance, and forward crash avoidance.

With a large touchscreen, heated steering wheel, and round-the-clock roadside assistance, its infotainment system is also straightforward to use and gives senior drivers much-needed peace of mind.

6.     Honda Pilot

The Honda Pilot is a stylish and appealing SUV that gives older drivers a hip and contemporary appearance. Its fast and highly fuel-efficient V6 engine enables a more frugal driving style.

Since it has a ground clearance of about 185 mm, most seniors can quickly enter and exit. Up to 8 passengers can sit comfortably and in comfort inside the Honda Pilot, and there is enough room for groceries.

The Pilot is loaded with features that help drivers, such as an 8-inch touch screen, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, and emergency braking.

The Pilot’s large windows and elevated driving position give drivers a great view of the road.

7.    Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander, which is a top-rated SUV, would be an excellent choice for any senior driver looking for a new vehicle. This roomy car has the capacity to seat up to eight adults, making it an ideal choice for any upcoming trips with the family.

All the power you require is provided by a solid V6 engine under the hood, which also offers a highway fuel economy of about 24 mpg.

12.3-in Toyota Audio Multimedia Display.

It is appropriate for seniors because it has a large visual display and simple controls. In addition, the Highlander has a number of driver aids, including automatic braking, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control.

8.    Lexus RX Hybrid

The engine in the new RX Hybrid has been modified to be quieter and more comfortable. With a ground clearance of about 195mm, it is perfectly accessible for both passengers and senior drivers.

Many seniors appreciate the SUV’s luxurious interior, which makes driving it feels rather opulent. The infotainment system is entirely touchscreen and devoid of any dials, making it simpler to use and giving it a more contemporary feel.

The RX has five seats as opposed to many of the other SUVs on our list’s seven. The back seats can also be lowered to expand the trunk and storage capacity for long trips.

9.    Nissan Rogue

The Nissan Rogue is the ideal choice for senior citizens who want something that is contemporary, sleek, and stylish. The Rogue has a very functional interior that also has plenty of space for the driver and passengers.

The vehicle comes standard with a front-wheel drive setup, but purchasers also have the option of upgrading to an all-wheel drive system. On the highway, it achieves about 37 miles per gallon, so it is reasonably efficient.

The Rogue has numerous storage nooks that have been thoughtfully designed, providing space for you to put your drinks and other items that you want to keep safe.

10. Hyundai Kona Electric

The Kona Electric might be the best option for you if you’re looking for a reasonably priced all-electric SUV. It is highly cost-effective because it can travel up to 300 miles between charges.

Despite being inexpensive, the interior is nothing special and is actually quite simple and minimalistic. However, don’t let that deter you because the quality of the materials used more than makes up for it.

Because the primary controls of the Hyundai Kona Electric are easy to comprehend and use, this model is an excellent choice for senior citizens. In addition to that, the dashboard, which measures 10.3 inches, is easy to read.

11. Subaru Outback

Because of its automatic transmission and 2.5-liter engine, the Subaru Outback is an excellent and easy choice for senior citizens. In contrast, if you want something a bit more lively and robust, the fact that it has the propensity to be slower than other SUVs in its class could be a problem for you.

2023 Subaru Outback cruising on unpaved road.

Because of its light steering, driving and steering the Subaru Outback is a reasonably simple and enjoyable experience.

The Outback has a ground clearance of 241 millimeters, which places it higher than the other SUVs on our list. Additionally, the Outback has four-wheel drive, which makes it an excellent choice for those who frequently engage in towing activities.

Tips That Can Help Seniors to Find the Most Comfortable Car to Drive

If you’re planning on reading reviews of the available options, here are some things to think about:

  • Look at the standard-fitted comfort. If anyone deserves more comfort and convenience, it’s the elderly. Please make sure the car has the appropriate number of standard fittings or add them.
  • Keep things simple – Even though you might want to believe that everything is taken care of, many people can attest to how irritated the mature audience is with technology that is way too complex. Make sure using the infotainment system doesn’t necessitate an MIT diploma.
  • Give comfort the utmost importance, and look for a vehicle that has received rave reviews in this regard. This includes seats that can be adjusted in multiple ways, as well as seats that are easy to use and accessible.

What to Consider Before Buying

Even the very best have their flaws, but the high-riders on this list excel in the majority of areas:

Specifications of the Best Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) for Seniors

For an SUV to be considered a serious contender in this category, it must fulfill several requirements:

  • The main priority is supportive seating.
  • The proper height is essential for easy access and egress.
  • Technology must be user-friendly and clearly organized.
  • There should be plenty of room on the list of safety requirements.

Conclusion

The Honda CR-V Hybrid is expected to be one of the most popular SUVs among senior citizens in 2022. It consumes very little fuel, produces acceptable amounts of power, and is unquestionably valuable. Even at the most basic level, it provides an excellent level of comfort, and it comes with an impressive assortment of safety features as standard equipment.

The Subaru Forester and the standard version of the CR-V are both viable alternatives to consider if you wish to increase your financial savings.

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About Matthew Webb

Hi, I am Matthew! I am a dedicated car nerd! During the day, I am a journalist, at night I enjoy working on my 2 project cars. I have been a car nerd all my life, and am excited to share my knowledge with you!

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