When it comes to choosing a car, older drivers often look for different qualities than younger buyers. Instead of chasing horsepower or cutting edge gadgets, they want comfort, safety, visibility, and reliability. A good car for an older driver should be easy to get in and out of, deliver a smooth and quiet ride, and offer intuitive controls without unnecessary complexity. It should also be dependable enough to rack up years of worry free driving. Here’s a closer look at ten cars that fit those needs and why they stand out for older drivers today.
Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry has built its reputation on reliability, comfort, and simplicity, which is why it has been a favorite of older drivers for decades. The wide doors and low step in height make it easy to get into, and the seats are designed to be supportive on long drives without feeling too firm. Visibility is excellent thanks to thin roof pillars, and Toyota’s safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist come standard. Maintenance costs are low, and it’s not unusual for Camrys to last 200,000 miles or more, giving owners peace of mind that they won’t be shopping for a new car anytime soon.
Honda CR-V
For drivers who like the idea of a slightly taller vehicle without the bulk of a full SUV, the Honda CR-V is an ideal choice. The higher ride height makes getting in and out effortless, especially for those with mobility issues, while still keeping the cabin comfortable and car like. The CR-V is known for a smooth ride, quiet interior, and excellent fuel efficiency. It also offers one of the roomiest cabins in its class, making it easy to carry groceries, golf clubs, or luggage without fuss. Honda’s reputation for dependability and low long term ownership costs make the CR-V a smart pick.
Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is a perfect choice for drivers who live in areas with snowy winters or uneven roads. Standard all wheel drive gives it unmatched confidence in bad weather, and the slightly raised ground clearance makes rough roads less stressful. Despite that capability, it’s still very easy to step into, unlike larger SUVs that require a climb. The Outback’s large windows and upright seating give drivers a commanding view of the road, which is especially helpful for those who don’t want to feel boxed in. Subaru also has one of the best reputations for safety, making the Outback appealing to cautious drivers who want security and versatility in one package.
Buick Encore GX
The Buick Encore GX represents how Buick has shifted its focus toward comfort and refinement. It’s a compact SUV, which means it’s small enough to be easy to maneuver in parking lots but still tall enough for comfortable entry and exit. The cabin is quiet, with a suspension tuned for comfort rather than sharp handling, which many older drivers appreciate. Seats are supportive, and the interior layout is simple to use without overwhelming drivers with complicated technology. Buick also adds touches of luxury at an affordable price, which makes the Encore GX a strong contender for buyers who want refinement without paying luxury brand premiums.
Hyundai Sonata
The Hyundai Sonata offers a lot of value while being one of the easiest sedans to drive. The wide door openings and slightly higher seating position compared to older sedans make it a car you can slide into without much effort. Its ride quality is smooth and calm, even over rough pavement, which helps reduce fatigue on long trips. Hyundai has made sure its controls remain straightforward, with knobs and buttons for essential functions instead of burying everything in a touchscreen. On top of that, Hyundai’s warranty—one of the longest in the industry—provides added peace of mind for buyers who plan to keep their cars for many years.
Chrysler Pacifica
For older drivers who often drive grandkids or need extra versatility, the Chrysler Pacifica minivan is one of the most practical vehicles available. Its sliding doors make entry simple for passengers of all ages, while the low step in height means no climbing is required. The interior is spacious, with seats that can fold into the floor for maximum cargo room, so it can handle everything from family trips to bulky purchases. The Pacifica rides smoothly, has top notch crash test ratings, and comes with plenty of driver assistance features to help with safety. It’s a minivan that’s more about comfort and practicality than anything else.
Ford Edge
The Ford Edge is a midsize SUV that balances size and comfort well. It offers a higher seating position that many older drivers prefer, but it isn’t so tall that it’s hard to get into. The cabin is wide and airy, with excellent visibility and simple controls. The Edge delivers a quiet and cushioned ride, making highway cruising relaxing. Optional all wheel drive adds security in bad weather, and the large cargo area makes it useful for trips, errands, or outdoor activities. For those who want something larger than a compact crossover but less cumbersome than a full size SUV, the Edge fits perfectly.
Lexus ES
The Lexus ES has long been considered one of the most comfortable sedans on the road. It prioritizes quietness, ride smoothness, and reliability above all else. The seats are cushioned and supportive, and the suspension soaks up bumps with ease, making it ideal for long drives. Lexus is known for designing controls that don’t overwhelm drivers, and while the ES offers modern tech, it does so in a straightforward way. Beyond comfort, the ES is one of the most reliable luxury sedans on the market, which means it delivers all the refinement of a high end car without the repair headaches that sometimes come with European luxury brands.
Kia Sportage
The Kia Sportage is another crossover that appeals to older drivers for its practicality and ease of use. The ride height is just right—not too low like a sedan, not too high like a large SUV. It has supportive seats, good visibility, and intuitive controls. Kia’s warranty coverage is among the best, giving buyers extra reassurance about long term ownership. On the road, the Sportage feels stable and composed, which helps build confidence behind the wheel. Its manageable size also makes it easy to park and drive in crowded areas, something that can be stressful with larger vehicles.
Toyota Avalon
The Toyota Avalon is essentially the Camry’s bigger and more luxurious sibling, and it’s long been a favorite among older drivers who want extra space and comfort. The cabin is wide and airy, with generous legroom in both front and back seats. The ride is plush and quiet, almost floating over rough pavement, and the seats are among the most comfortable in its class. Like the Camry, the Avalon carries Toyota’s rock solid reliability, which makes it a smart long term investment. For drivers who want a premium feel without the worry of owning a high maintenance luxury car, the Avalon is hard to beat.
25 Facts About Car Loans That Most Drivers Don’t Realize
Car loans are one of the most common ways people fund car purchases. Like any other kind of loan, car loans can have certain features that can be regarded as an advantage or a disadvantage to the borrower. Understanding all essential facts about car loans and how they work to ensure that you get the best deal for your financial situation is essential. Here are 25 shocking facts about car loans that most drivers don’t realize:
25 Facts About Car Loans That Most Drivers Don’t Realize
