Safest Cars For Seniors

‍‍‍Top Picks for Safe Cars for Seniors

As you age, your driving needs may change, and you may require a car that is easier to handle, has better visibility, and offers advanced safety features.

The good news is that many car manufacturers are now designing vehicles with seniors in mind. Many features can help you stay safe on the road, from blind-spot monitoring to automatic emergency braking.

Choosing a car that offers these features makes you feel confident and secure while driving, no matter where the road takes you.

But before we dive in, here are some of the standard features of each model mentioned:

1. Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is a perfect choice if you're looking for a compact and well-rounded SUV. This vehicle is popular for seniors due to its safety features and spacious interior.

This compact SUV also offers a smooth ride and good fuel efficiency. Here is a breakdown of the Honda CR-V's specifications, performance, benefits, and drawbacks.

Specifications

The Honda CR-V is a compact SUV that seats up to five people. It comes in four trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring.

All models come standard with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. The engine is paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive.

All-wheel drive is also available as an option. According to EPA, the CR-V has a fuel economy rating of up to 30 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.

Performance

The Honda CR-V provides a comfortable and smooth ride. It also includes several standard ADAS features. It has responsive steering and composed handling.

The CR-V's turbocharged engine provides peppy acceleration, making it easy to merge onto highways and pass other vehicles.

The CR-V Hybrid offers a well-rounded range of features that stand out in its class, with Honda's long-standing reputation for reliability to back it all up.

Recent Updates

The Honda CR-V was last redesigned for the 2017 model year and received a facelift for the 2020 model year. For 2023, the CR-V remains largely unchanged.

What Sets It Apart

The Honda CR-V stands out for its safety features, including blind spot warning and automatic high beams. It also has a spacious interior with plenty of room for passengers and cargo.

The dashboard controls are intuitive and easy to use, making it a great choice for seniors who prefer simple and straightforward technology.

Benefits

• Spacious and well-built interior
• Comfortable and smooth ride
• Excellent fuel economy
• Reputation for reliability
• Intuitive dashboard controls
• It has a long list of standard safety features
• Blind spot warning and automatic high beams

Drawbacks

• Noisy engine at full throttle
• Noisy CVT during hard acceleration
• Limited cargo space compared to some rivals
• Some competitors offer more powerful engines

Who Should Buy

The Honda CR-V is an excellent choice for seniors who want a reliable, fuel-efficient, and comfortable compact SUV with a spacious and well-built interior. It's also a good choice for those who prioritize safety, as the CR-V comes standard with a long list of advanced safety features.

Where to Buy

You can buy the Honda CR-V by locating any Honda dealership near you through Honda’s website. You can also find used models at many used car dealerships and online marketplaces like CarMax and Autotrader.

2. Subaru Outback

If you're a senior looking for a car that offers a high level of safety, the Subaru Outback is an excellent choice.

It’s popular for seniors who prioritize safety, reliability, and comfort. Here's a closer look at what makes this vehicle stand out:

Specifications

The Subaru Outback is a midsize SUV that can seat up to five passengers. It comes standard with all-wheel drive and has various safety features that help keep you and your passengers safe on the road.

The 2023 Subaru Outback has two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower and a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 260 horsepower.

According to most end-user remarks, it also features standard all-wheel drive, which is a bonus for seniors living in inclement weather.

Performance

The Outback's performance is impressive, with a smooth, comfortable ride, good handling, and excellent off-road capabilities.

It also boasts high crash-test scores from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Recent Updates

The most recent update to the Subaru Outback was in 2020 when the vehicle received a complete redesign. This redesign included updated exterior styling, a more spacious interior, and a variety of new safety features.

What Sets It Apart

One of the standout features of the Outback is its EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking. It also has a standard all-wheel drive. This feature can help improve traction and handling in a variety of driving conditions, including rain, snow, and ice.

Benefits

• Standard all-wheel drive for better handling in all weather conditions
• EyeSight Driver Assist Technology for added safety
• Spacious interior with comfortable seats and ample cargo space
• Good fuel economy, with up to 33 mpg on the highway

Drawbacks

• Its base engine lacks power compared to competitors
• Its infotainment system can be slow and frustrating to use

Who Should Buy

The Subaru Outback is an excellent choice for seniors who are looking for a vehicle that offers a high level of safety, comfort, and versatility. It's also a good option for drivers who frequently encounter challenging driving conditions, such as snow or ice, thanks to its off-road capabilities.

Where to Buy

The Subaru Outback is available at Subaru dealerships nationwide. It's also worth checking out online car-buying services like Autotrader and CarMax for deals and convenience. You can also build your own price on the Subaru website.

3. Kia Sorento

If you are looking for a safe and reliable SUV for seniors, the Kia Sorento is definitely worth considering. This midsize SUV has been praised for its safety features, spacious cabin, and comfortable ride.

It has also received high safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Specifications

The current Kia Sorento has a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower. It also comes standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option.

All-wheel drive is available as an option. The Sorento can seat up to seven passengers and has a maximum cargo capacity of about 73 cubic feet. It also has several safety features like blind spot assistance and safe exit assist.

Performance

The Kia Sorento has a smooth and composed ride, making it a great choice for long road trips. Its handling is also responsive, and it has a good amount of power for its class. The fuel economy is impressive, with an estimated 24 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

Recent Updates

The Sorento was redesigned for the 2021 model year with updated styling, new engines, and an available hybrid version. It also received a number of advanced safety features, including a forward collision warning.

What Sets It Apart

The Kia Sorento stands out for its safety features. It comes with a suite of driver assistance technologies, including forward collision and lane departure warnings. It also has a rearview camera and rear parking sensors.

Benefits

• High safety ratings
• Comfortable and spacious interior
• Impressive fuel economy
• It has a long list of standard features

Drawbacks

• Some may find the base engine underpowered
• Third-row seats are best suited for children or small adults

Who Should Buy

The Kia Sorento is a great choice for seniors who value safety, comfort, reliability, and fuel efficiency. It's also a good option for those needing extra passenger or cargo space.

Where to Buy

The Kia Sorento is available at Kia dealerships nationwide. It’s also available for purchase online through Kia's website or used car dealers like Autotrader. Be sure to do your research and shop around to find the best deal and financing options.

4. Subaru Legacy

The Subaru Legacy is a midsize sedan that has been praised for its safety features, making it an ideal choice for seniors. It’s a great option to consider if you're looking for a safe and reliable car for seniors.

This midsize sedan has been a popular choice for older drivers for several years, and for good reasons. Here's what you need to know about the Subaru Legacy:

Specifications

The Legacy features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. It also has a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and gets an estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

The Legacy comes in several trims, including higher trims that come with more advanced safety features. For example, the Limited and Touring trims come with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking.

The Legacy also comes with all-wheel drive, which provides better traction and handling in inclement weather. This feature is especially important for seniors who may have difficulty navigating slippery roads.

Performance

The Legacy's all-wheel drive and smooth ride make it a great car for seniors who want a comfortable and safe driving experience. It has a fuel economy of 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, which is impressive for a midsize sedan.

The Legacy also has a good safety rating, earning a five-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In addition, the Legacy's higher seating position makes it easier for elderly drivers to get in and out of the

Recent Updates

The 2022 Subaru Legacy has received a few updates, including a new front grille, redesigned headlights, and a revised front bumper.

It also comes with more standard safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning.

What Sets It Apart

One thing that sets the Legacy apart from other vehicles in its class is its standard all-wheel drive. This feature is typically only found in higher-end luxury vehicles, making the Legacy an attractive option for seniors on a fixed income.

Benefits

• Standard all-wheel drive
• EyeSight Driver Assist Technology
• Spacious cabin
• Good safety rating
• Comfortable ride
• Impressive fuel economy

Drawbacks

• Limited engine options
• Not as sporty as some competitors, so it may not be the most exciting vehicle to drive.

Who Should Buy

Overall, the Subaru Legacy is great for seniors who want a safe, reliable, and practical vehicle. It's also a good choice for those who live in areas with harsh weather conditions, thanks to its standard all-wheel drive.

Where to Buy

Seniors interested in purchasing a Legacy can find it at any authorized Subaru dealership nationwide or online buying services like CarMax or Autotrader for a hassle-free buying experience.

5. Nissan Altima

The Nissan Altima is a midsize sedan that has been popular among car buyers for many years. It’s known for its reliability, safety, and affordability.

The 2020 Nissan Altima ranked as a Top Safety Pick at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and received five out of five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's crash testing.

Specifications

The current Nissan Altima is 193 inches long, 73 inches wide, and 57 inches tall, with a 111-inch wheelbase. It has a spacious interior that can comfortably seat five people.

The Altima comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. It also has a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), providing smooth and efficient acceleration.

Performance

The Altima's performance is adequate but not exceptional. It has a smooth and comfortable ride, making it a great choice for seniors who want a car that is easy to drive.

My test all-wheel-drive Altima had a 2.5-liter engine that covered 0-60 mph in an unremarkable 8.4 seconds. However, the CVT automatic is well-tuned and helps make the Altima an almost effortless car to drive.

It also has responsive steering and handles well on the road. The engine provides enough power for most driving situations, but some drivers may find it lacking in acceleration.

Recent Updates

The 2022 Nissan Altima has received some updates, including a new SV Premium Package that adds leather seats, a moonroof, and a Bose premium audio system.

The Altima also comes with an impressive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.

What sets it apart

One thing that sets the Nissan Altima apart from other midsize sedans is its fuel efficiency. It gets excellent gas mileage, which can save seniors money on fuel costs. The Altima also has a spacious and comfortable interior, making it a great choice for longer trips.

Benefits

• Excellent fuel efficiency
• Spacious and comfortable interior
• Impressive safety features
• Comes with advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning.
• It also has available features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control.

Drawbacks

• Some drivers may find the engine lacking in acceleration or feeling sluggish at times.
• The infotainment system can be difficult to use
• The interior is also not as luxurious as some of its competitors.

Who should buy

The Nissan Altima is an excellent choice for seniors who are looking for a safe, reliable, and affordable midsize sedan. Its advanced safety features also make it an excellent choice for seniors who want peace of mind while driving.

Where to buy

The Nissan Altima is available at Nissan dealerships nationwide and online through Nissan's website. You can also find used models at dealerships and online car marketplaces like Edmunds and Autotrader.

6. Toyota Camry Hybrid

The Toyota Camry Hybrid is another popular and reliable car that is well-suited for seniors. It’s a mid-size sedan that has been on the market for many years and has consistently received high marks for safety and reliability.

Specifications

The current Toyota Camry Hybrid has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that is paired with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 208 horsepower.

It has a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and comes standard with front-wheel drive. It also has a fuel economy rating of 51 miles per gallon in the city and 53 miles per gallon on the highway.

It also comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, including a pre-collision system with lane departure alert, steering assist, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. It also has a rearview camera and ten airbags.

Performance

The Camry Hybrid offers a smooth and quiet ride, with responsive handling and plenty of power for highway driving, making it a comfortable car for long drives. The car's regenerative braking system helps to recharge the battery while slowing down or coming to a stop.

Recent Updates

The 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid has been updated with a refreshed exterior design, a new infotainment system, and additional safety features. The car now comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.

What Sets it Apart

The Camry Hybrid stands out for its fuel efficiency, reliability, and advanced safety features. It also offers a spacious and comfortable interior, with plenty of legroom and headroom for passengers.

Benefits

• Excellent fuel economy
• Advanced safety features
• Comfortable and spacious interior
• Smooth and quiet ride
• User-friendly infotainment system

Drawbacks

• Higher price tag compared to non-hybrid Camry models
• Limited trunk space due to the battery placement
• It has a somewhat bland exterior design, which may not appeal to everyone.

Who Should Buy

The Toyota Camry Hybrid is a great choice for seniors who want a reliable, fuel-efficient car that offers advanced safety features and a comfortable ride. It's also a good option for those who frequently drive long distances or spend a lot of time on the highway.

Where to Buy

You can purchase a Toyota Camry Hybrid at any Toyota dealership or Toyota website. You can also check out online car-buying services like Edmunds and Autotrader to see if they have any Camry Hybrids available.

7. Kia Soul

The Kia Soul is a compact crossover SUV popular among seniors for its safety features, affordability, and easy-to-use controls. Here are some reasons why the Kia Soul might be a good choice for you:

Specifications

The 2023 Kia Soul comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque.

It has a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive. The car's fuel economy is 29 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

Performance

The Kia Soul provides a comfortable ride with its well-tuned suspension and handles well on the road. The car is also relatively quiet, so you won't have to deal with a lot of road noise.

Recent Updates

The Kia Soul was redesigned in 2020, and since then, it has received minor updates. The 2023 model comes with a new standard infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.

What Sets It Apart

The Kia Soul stands out from other cars in its class for its unique boxy design and spacious interior. The car has a high roofline, which provides ample headroom for passengers, and the rear seats can be folded down to create more cargo space.

Benefits

• The Kia Soul has a high safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
• The car comes with many standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and a rearview camera.
• The Kia Soul has a low starting price, making it an affordable option for seniors on a budget.

Drawbacks

• The Kia Soul has a small engine, which means it may not be the best choice if you need a car with a lot of power.
• The car's boxy design may not appeal to everyone.

Who Should Buy

The Kia Soul is great for seniors who want a safe, affordable, and easy-to-use car. It's also a good option for those who need a car with a spacious interior and ample cargo space.

Where to Buy

You can buy a Kia Soul from any Kia dealership or check on Kia Soul's official site. You can also find used models at many used car dealerships and online car marketplaces like Edmunds. Make sure to test drive the car before you buy it to make sure it meets your needs.

Safety Features to Look for in Cars for Seniors

When it comes to the safest cars for seniors, there are a few factors to consider. For example, advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitor, and lane departure warning are essential to keep older drivers safe on the road.

Let’s take a closer look at some safety features you need to pay attention to when choosing cars for senior drivers:

1. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

ADAS features, such as blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, can help prevent accidents. These features use sensors and cameras to alert you to potential dangers and can even take corrective action to avoid a collision.

2. Backup Cameras

Backup cameras are now mandatory on all new cars in the U.S. and can be a lifesaver for seniors. They give you a clear view of the area behind your vehicle that may not be visible through the rearview mirror, making it easier to back up and park safely.

3. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

ACC uses special sensors to maintain a safe distance between your car and the one in front of you. This feature is especially useful for long-distance trips on the highway, as it can help reduce driver fatigue and stress.

4. Automatic High Beams

Automatic high beams can detect oncoming traffic and adjust the headlights accordingly. This feature can help improve visibility at night, making it easier to see and avoid potential hazards.

5. Comfortable and Supportive Seats

Comfortable and supportive seats are essential for seniors, especially those with back or joint pain. Look for cars with adjustable lumbar support, heated seats, and memory settings to help you find the perfect driving position.

6. Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)

This feature uses sensors to detect an imminent collision and automatically applies the brakes to prevent or reduce the severity of a crash.

7. Blind Spot Warning (BSW):

This feature alerts the driver when a vehicle is in its blind spot, reducing the risk of a collision when changing lanes.

By prioritizing safety features, comfort and accessibility, visibility, and convenience features, seniors can find a car that meets their needs and gives them peace of mind on the road.