The popularity of SUVs has been steadily growing since the early 90s. Roughly 200 million were on the roads in 2019, a number that’s surely increased by now.1 They’re some of the most popular cars on the road right now, and the current market reflects that.
Seniors are among some of the biggest SUV fans. The more spacious cabin, abundance of onboard safety and entertainment features, and the improved sightlines of SUVs make them ideal for older drivers. Not all SUVs are created equally though. So, today we’ll take a look at the top five senior-friendly SUVs available in 2023 and tell you a bit about why they’re so great.
Shutterstock: alexfan32Honda CRV
Price: $32,905 to $40,3952 (depending on the trim)
Fuel Economy: 28/34 MPG3
Horsepower: 190 HP
Honda completely redesigned the popular CR-V for 2023, increasing it’s size to boost the vehicle’s storage capabilities and expand the cabin. It makes for a comfortable driving experience both in the driver’s seat and as a passenger.
The touchscreen infotainment system is easy to use and the interior is thoughtfully designed. The 2023 Honda CR-V is great on gas, and benefits from Honda’s stellar reputation for reliability and low-maintenance costs.4 Seniors also love that every CR-V comes with a ton of standard safety features, like blind-spot monitoring and traffic-sign recognition.
Kia Sorento
Price: $30,090 to $43,6905 (depending on the trim)
Fuel Economy: 24/29 MPG6
Horsepower: 191 HP
The Kia Sorrento is another popular choice among seniors for a lot of the same reasons mentioned earlier. Kia added blind-spot monitoring, safe exit assist, and rear cross-traffic alerts to their already impressive list of standard Sorento safety features. Buyers have two engine options and eight trims to choose from too.
The Sorento features three rows of seating, luxurious interior trim options, and lots of storage space. As is the case with most new Kia’s, the 2023 Sorento is overflowing with standard features. Notable highlights include wireless smartphone integration, multiple USB ports, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
Hyundai Santa Fe
Price: $28,200 to $43,7507 (depending on the trim)
Fuel Economy: 24/28 MPG8
Horsepower: 191 HP
The Hyundai Santa Fe is popular with senior SUV buyers because it delivers a similar menu of features at a must lower price tag. Sure, the fully loaded Calligraphy trim can cost north of $43K, but the base model SE Trim still comes standard with wireless smartphone integration, 18-inch alloy wheels, and blind-spot collision-avoidance assist.
The 2023 Santa Fe offers plenty of storage space, a roomy interior, and loads of optional and luxurious upgrades. Every Santa Fe is backed by Hyundai’s five-year/60,000 mile basic warranty and comes with three years of free scheduled maintenance.
Toyota Highlander
Price: $37,755 to $52,0109 (depending on the trim)
Fuel Economy: 24 MPG combined
Horsepower: 265 HP
Toyota has built their legacy on delivering reliable vehicles, and in that vein, the 2023 Highlander delivers more of the same. It’s available in 11 trim packages, from the base level L trim to the fully loaded Platinum edition.
The standard engine is a 265 HP 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that’s paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, though there’s the option to get one with a hybrid powertrain too. It comfortably seats eight passengers, and comes with an easy to use touchscreen infotainment system.
Subaru Forester
Price: $26,395 to $36,49510 (depending on the trim)
Fuel Economy: 26/33 MPG11
Horsepower: 182 HP
All-wheel drive handling, unrivaled off-road capabilities, and above average cargo space round out a long list of senior-friendly features available in the 2023 Subaru Forester. It’s a particular favorite among those in rural areas or those that expect to see a lot of snow.
The interior is spacious and cleverly designed. The infotainment system is easy to understand and use while driving. Subaru doesn’t skimp on the standard safety features either. Though optional upgrades are available, every Forester comes standard with automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.
Put It In Drive
There are so many great choices out there, from the reliable CR-V to the luxurious Santa Fe. In truth, all of the SUVs in our top five deliver a ton of value for older drivers. The competition is so stiff that deciding may come down to booking a test drive and getting a real feel for each.
The right specs, storage space, and price don’t always tell the whole story. So don’t hesitate to call up your local dealer and drive one yourself. Thankfully there are so many available options locally and online.
