For many years, the traditional sedan was the go-to choice for retirees seeking dependable transportation. However, modern SUVs have emerged as a superior option, offering significant advantages that directly address the evolving needs of older drivers. Their elevated seating positions, combined with wider door openings, make daily driving considerably more comfortable and accessible, easing the strain of getting in and out. Beyond mere convenience, safety studies indicate that SUVs generally provide better protection for elderly drivers than smaller cars, thanks to their larger size and weight, which are crucial factors in predicting survival in a crash.
Our extensive research indicates that retirees prioritize specific features when considering a new vehicle. According to Edmunds, key considerations include readily available driver-assist features, superior accessibility and comfort, and the presence of more physical buttons over touch-sensitive controls for ease of use. This consumer-centric approach ensures that our recommendations focus on durability, exceptional value, and long-term satisfaction, rather than just initial appeal.
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into a meticulously curated list of 2025 SUVs, each evaluated through rigorous research and an understanding of what truly matters to seniors. We’ll break down complex information into easily digestible points, presenting objective insights to help you make an informed purchasing decision with confidence. This first section introduces seven outstanding models that consistently earn high marks for their senior-friendly design and robust capabilities.
1. **2025 Subaru Forester**: The redesigned 2025 Subaru Forester stands out as a prime candidate for seniors seeking a practical, safe, and easily accessible SUV. This sixth-generation model has undergone a complete revamp for 2025, yet it skillfully retains its fundamental strengths while introducing significant enhancements that make it particularly well-suited for older drivers. It comes equipped with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and maintains a solid 8.7 inches of ground clearance, ensuring capability in various conditions. Under the hood, you’ll find a revised 2.5-liter BOXER engine, generating 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, paired with a Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission.
Safety is a paramount concern for senior drivers, and the Forester delivers, earning recognition as a 2025 IIHS Top Safety Pick with a “G” (Good) rating across all evaluation categories, including structure and injury measures. Every 2025 Forester includes standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, acting as an extra pair of eyes to monitor traffic and road conditions. This comprehensive system features Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering, Pre-Collision Braking, and Lane Departure Warning. For added peace of mind, the available DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System actively alerts drivers if it detects signs of drowsiness or distraction, a particularly beneficial feature for long drives. This smart system can also recognize up to five different drivers, automatically adjusting seat position, mirror angles, and climate settings to their preferences.
Seniors will find the Forester’s cabin remarkably accommodating, offering excellent outward visibility and a roomy interior. The redesign significantly improves sound insulation, resulting in a noticeably quieter ride. With 43.3 inches of front legroom and 39.4 inches of rear legroom, there’s ample space for occupants, and the Base trim provides up to 110.8 cubic feet of passenger volume. Entry and exit are simplified by the vehicle’s optimal height and thoughtful door design, making it one of the easiest SUVs for seniors to access. The Forester also boasts generous cargo capacity, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats in the Base trim and 27.5 cubic feet in other trims, expanding to 74.4 cubic feet and 69.1 cubic feet respectively when the rear seats are folded. Its wide rear gate opening and flat load floor further simplify the loading and unloading of large items. The 2025 Forester starts at $29,695 for the Base trim, ranging up to $39,995 for the Touring trim, and Subaru offers competitive financing options through July 31, 2025.
2. **2025 Honda CR-V**: The award-winning 2025 Honda CR-V stands as an exceptional choice for seniors seeking reliable transportation combined with excellent accessibility features. This sixth-generation compact SUV has consistently earned Kelley Blue Book’s Best Buy Award since its 2023 launch, a testament to its remarkable versatility for older drivers. It offers both conventional and hybrid powertrains; the standard 1.5-liter turbocharged engine delivers 190 horsepower, while higher trims provide an available 204-horsepower hybrid system. For enhanced traction, optional Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System is available, and select models feature a convenient hands-free access power tailgate.
Safety is a core strength of the CR-V, which earned a maximum 5-Star overall score from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick designation from IIHS. Every model comes standard with the comprehensive Honda Sensing suite, a collection of advanced driver-assist technologies. This includes a Collision Mitigation Braking System with pedestrian detection, a Road Departure Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, a Lane Keeping Assist System, and Traffic Sign Recognition. Notably, the Traffic Jam Assist feature works in conjunction with the lane-keeping system, adding steering corrections at speeds below 45 mph, providing multiple layers of protection and assistance for senior drivers.
Seniors will particularly appreciate the CR-V’s thoughtful design elements, which prioritize ease of use and comfort. Wide-opening doors and a low step-in height ensure effortless entry and exit, while the Body Stabilizing Seats are specifically designed to reduce fatigue during extended drives. The expansive 41 inches of rear legroom ensures that passengers, including grandchildren, ride in comfort. Available heated front seats and a heated steering wheel add extra comfort during colder months, and dual-zone automatic climate control allows for individualized temperature preferences. The CR-V also offers class-leading cargo capacity, providing 39.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and expanding to an impressive 76.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Its low, wide cargo opening makes loading groceries and gear remarkably simple. The 2025 Honda CR-V starts at $31,495 for the base LX trim, with hybrid models offering outstanding fuel efficiency, making them ideal for seniors on fixed incomes concerned about fuel costs.
3. **2025 Hyundai Santa Fe**: The completely redesigned 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe masterfully blends bold styling with exceptional accessibility, making it one of the easiest SUVs for seniors to get in and out of. Its higher seating position and wide door openings are key to this ease, providing comfort and convenience for older drivers. Under the hood, the Santa Fe features a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, delivering a robust 277 horsepower, which ensures plenty of power for confident driving. This three-row SUV is available in five distinct trims—SE, SEL, XRT, Limited, and Calligraphy—offering a range of options to suit various needs and budgets. Standard features include a user-friendly 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with high-quality interior materials and soft-touch surfaces.
Safety is a top priority in the Santa Fe, which boasts a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies. It earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, signifying its excellent crash-avoidance technology and robust crashworthy construction. Key safety features beneficial for seniors include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Lane Keeping Assist. For added convenience and reduced driver fatigue on long journeys, the available Highway Driving Assist allows for brief hands-free driving. The XRT trim is a notable option for seniors who enjoy occasional outdoor adventures, as it provides increased ground clearance of 8.3 inches compared to the 7 inches offered on other trims.
Comfort and ease of use are where the Santa Fe truly shines for older drivers. Its elevated seat position and wide door openings ensure remarkably simple entry and exit. The front seats are designed to offer excellent support, even during extended trips, solidifying its position among the best SUVs for elderly drivers. The cabin features intuitive controls that are easy to reach, dual-zone automatic climate control, and available heated and ventilated seats for year-round comfort. Second-row passengers benefit from a generous 42.3 inches of legroom, ensuring comfort for everyone. The Santa Fe provides versatile cargo capacity, with 14.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 40.5 cubic feet when the third row is folded, and reaching an impressive 79.6 cubic feet with both rear rows folded down. Its wide rear gate opening and flat load floor further simplify loading and unloading. The 2025 Santa Fe starts at $34,800 for the base SE trim, with All-Wheel Drive adding approximately $1,800 to most trims, and coming standard on the XRT.
4. **2025 Kia Telluride**: The 2025 Kia Telluride commands attention with its strong presence and an easily accessible cabin, making it an outstanding choice for seniors who prioritize abundant room and exceptional comfort. This spacious three-row SUV consistently delivers an upscale driving experience without carrying a premium luxury price tag, offering remarkable value. It comes equipped with a powerful 3.8-liter V6 engine, producing 291 horsepower, seamlessly paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While front-wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive is available for an additional $2,000 on most trims, providing added confidence in diverse driving conditions.
Safety is paramount, and the 2025 Telluride has earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation, which is their highest safety accolade, reflecting “Good” ratings across all crashworthiness categories. Standard safety features that are particularly beneficial for seniors include Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking, Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection, Blind-Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane-Departure Warning with Lane-Keep Assist, Driver Attention Monitoring, and Rear Parking Sensors. These integrated systems work harmoniously; for instance, the adaptive cruise control accelerates and slows smoothly, while the lane-keeping system effectively helps maintain proper lane position without feeling intrusive or erratic. Higher trims also offer desirable premium amenities such as Nappa leather upholstery, a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, and a head-up display.
For accessibility, the Telluride shines with its stadium seating design, where each row is positioned slightly higher than the one in front, enhancing visibility for all occupants. The cabin provides remarkably spacious dimensions, offering generous headroom and legroom across all three rows. Second-row passengers enjoy an impressive 42.4 inches of legroom and 40.2 inches of headroom, ensuring comfort even on longer journeys. Unlike many competitors, the third row can comfortably accommodate adults, not just children. The wide-opening doors and a reasonably low step-in height make entry and exit straightforward for seniors. Cargo capacity is equally impressive, with 21 cubic feet behind the third row, enough space for several suitcases. This expands to 46 cubic feet with the third row folded and a maximum of 87 cubic feet with both rear rows down. The wide hatch opening and flat load floor simplify the loading and unloading of bulky items. The 2025 Telluride starts at $36,190 for the base LX trim, with various higher trims available, making it an excellent option for seniors who frequently transport family members and value interior space, comfort, and a robust set of safety features at a reasonable price point.
5. **2025 Toyota Highlander**: The spacious 2025 Toyota Highlander delivers reliable performance and incorporates thoughtful design elements that firmly establish it as a standout choice among the best SUVs for seniors in today’s market. It offers impressive versatility with a choice of both standard gas and hybrid powertrains. The gas model features a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, generating 265 horsepower with 310 lb.-ft. of torque, providing ample power for daily driving. Alternatively, the hybrid version combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with three electric motors to produce 243 combined horsepower, offering excellent fuel efficiency.
Standard features across all models include modern LED headlights and fog lights, a power liftgate for easy cargo access, and seamless wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration for smartphone connectivity. Crucially, every Highlander comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assist technologies designed to enhance protection for elderly drivers. This includes a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Tracking Assist, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Road Sign Assist. Furthermore, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is standard, providing additional layers of driving confidence, particularly useful in busy parking lots or on multi-lane highways. The 2025 Highlander earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, making it an excellent option for elderly drivers prioritizing protection.
Seniors will greatly appreciate the Highlander’s excellent outward visibility, which is enhanced by its thin front roof pillars, allowing for a clearer view of the road. The base model offers seating for up to eight passengers, while higher trims provide second-row captain’s chairs, reducing capacity to seven but enhancing comfort for those seated there. Front seats are generous with 42 inches of legroom, comfortably accommodating taller drivers. Cargo space is practical, with 16 cubic feet of storage behind the third row, sufficient for daily errands. When the third row is folded, capacity expands to 48.4 cubic feet, and with both second and third rows folded, the maximum cargo volume reaches 84.3 cubic feet, making it versatile for various needs. The 2025 Highlander starts at $39,520 for the base LE trim, with hybrid models beginning with the XLE Hybrid at $46,020. This vehicle excels for seniors seeking a comfortable, family-oriented option with exceptional safety features, offering smooth, predictable handling and a quiet interior for both daily driving and longer journeys.
6. **2025 Subaru Outback**: The 2025 Subaru Outback skillfully combines rugged capability with senior-friendly accessibility, presenting an exceptional value for older drivers who prioritize both comfort and confidence on the road. This wagon-inspired SUV offers two engine options to suit different driving preferences: a standard 2.5-liter BOXER engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, or an available 2.4-liter turbocharged powerplant generating a more robust 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Importantly, all Outback models come standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and X-MODE with hill descent control, ensuring enhanced stability and traction in various conditions, from slippery roads to light off-road paths.
Safety is a hallmark of the Outback, which comes standard with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. This advanced system acts as an extra set of eyes, continuously monitoring traffic movement and road conditions. It includes key features such as Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering and Pre-Collision Braking, providing proactive safety measures. The available DriverFocus system further enhances safety by detecting signs of drowsiness or distraction in the driver, alerting them as needed. This intelligent system also offers convenience by recognizing up to five different drivers and automatically recalling their preferred seat positions and climate settings, which proves particularly helpful for seniors who share their vehicle with family members. Standard features also include 8.7 inches of ground clearance, extending to 9.5 inches on the Wilderness trim, and up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity on XT and Wilderness models, making it versatile for various activities.
For comfort and accessibility, the Outback provides a spacious 109 cubic feet of passenger space (107.5 cubic feet with a moonroof). Front passengers enjoy ample 42.8 inches of legroom, while rear passengers benefit from 39.5 inches. The elevated seating position and wide door openings contribute to straightforward entry and exit, making it particularly easy for seniors to access. In terms of cargo, the Outback offers 32.6 cubic feet of storage behind the rear seats, which expands to a generous 75.6 cubic feet when those seats are folded down. The available hands-free power rear gate simplifies loading, especially when your arms are full. The 2025 Outback starts at approximately $29,000 for the base trim, with all-wheel drive standard across all models, eliminating the need to consider it as an extra cost. This vehicle is an excellent fit for seniors who desire all-weather capability in an easy-to-enter vehicle, ideal for active older adults who enjoy outdoor activities while still providing comfort for daily driving.
7. **2025 Nissan Rogue**: The practical 2025 Nissan Rogue offers excellent value for seniors who are seeking comfortable, accessible transportation without compromising on fuel efficiency or essential safety features. This compact SUV is powered by a 1.5-liter VC-Turbo engine, generating 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, providing a balance of power and efficiency. You’ll appreciate its impressive fuel economy, achieving up to 30 MPG in the city and 37 MPG on the highway, which is a significant factor in managing costs for seniors living on fixed incomes. Available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive automatically adjusts power distribution between the front and rear wheels, enhancing traction and stability when needed.
Every model of the Nissan Rogue comes standard with Safety Shield 360, a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect occupants. This includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, a crucial system that can stop the vehicle when it detects pedestrians or cyclists, mitigating potential collisions. Additional standard safety features include Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Intelligent Driver Alertness, and Rear Parking Sensors, all contributing to a more confident and secure driving experience for seniors. The available ProPILOT Assist 2.1 provides advanced driving assistance for highway travel, further easing the burden of long journeys.
For comfort and accessibility, the Rogue offers generous interior space, with 43.3 inches of front legroom and 38.5 inches of rear legroom, ensuring comfort for all passengers. Its wide-opening doors are particularly important for seniors with mobility concerns, making entry and exit notably simple. Available features like heated front and rear seats and a dual-panel panoramic moonroof enhance the overall comfort and driving experience. In terms of cargo, you’ll find 36.5 cubic feet of space behind the second row, expanding to 74.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The versatile Divide-N-Hide cargo system offers six different configurations, perfect for organizing groceries or travel gear efficiently. The 2025 Rogue S FWD starts at $28,590, with price reductions across all trims enhancing its value. RepairPal reports that annual maintenance costs average just $467 for the Rogue, which is considerably lower compared to the segment average of $521, making it an ideal choice for seniors who prioritize both value and dependability over luxury features.
Continuing our in-depth exploration, this section delves into eight additional exceptional SUVs that promise to deliver long-term satisfaction and ease of use for retirees in 2025, from robust family haulers to value-driven compact options. Each model has been meticulously evaluated to ensure it aligns with the core priorities of older drivers: safety, accessibility, comfort, and dependable performance. These vehicles offer diverse advantages, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every retiree’s unique needs and preferences.
8. **2025 Ford Escape**: The 2025 Ford Escape stands out for seniors seeking an accessible SUV that doesn’t compromise on modern features. It offers impressive powertrain choices, including a standard 180-horsepower turbocharged three-cylinder engine or an available 250-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder with all-wheel drive, both featuring an eight-speed automatic transmission. Technology highlights include standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, easily accessed through an 8-inch touchscreen that can be upgraded.
Safety is paramount, with the Escape earning an impressive J.D. Power reliability score of 85/100, providing confidence for older drivers. Ford Co-Pilot360™ technology comes standard, offering key features beneficial for seniors such as Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System), and a Lane-Keeping System. Front passengers enjoy generous 42.4 inches of legroom, and the sliding second row offers extraordinary flexibility to prioritize either passenger space or cargo room.
With 37.5 cubic feet of storage behind the second row, expanding to 65.4 cubic feet when seats are folded, the Escape provides versatile capacity. Starting at $27,995, it’s ideal for seniors valuing easy entry/exit, excellent visibility, and reliable technology.
9. **2025 Chevrolet Equinox**: The redesigned 2025 Chevrolet Equinox presents a compelling option for seniors who want modern features and accessibility without stretching their budget. This compact SUV uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine delivering 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive models come with a CVT, while AWD versions get an 8-speed automatic. The interior features dual digital displays: an 11-inch digital instrument panel and an 11.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, designed for intuitive use.
Standard Chevy Safety Assist comes on every Equinox, including automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian and bicyclist braking, lane keep assist, and forward collision alert. Optional safety features like HD Surround Vision and adaptive cruise control can be added. The interior offers 104.3 cubic feet of passenger volume, with front passengers getting 40.9 inches of legroom and 40 inches of headroom. You can choose from three upholstery options.
Behind the rear seats, the Equinox provides 29.8 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 63.5 cubic feet with seats folded. The available hands-free AutoSense Power Liftgate makes loading easier. Starting at $28,600, its 5-year cost to own ($46,546) ranks in the top 10% for affordability, making it ideal for seniors prioritizing value.
10. **2025 Mazda CX-90**: The 2025 Mazda CX-90 offers premium features at a relatively affordable price, making it an attractive option for seniors seeking upscale comfort without luxury costs. It’s equipped with a powerful 280-hp e-SKYACTIV-G 3.3L Turbo Inline 6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Standard features include rear-biased i-ACTIV AWD for confident handling, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop and Go, and three-zone automatic climate control.
Safety is paramount, earning the CX-90 the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation with “Good” ratings across all crashworthiness categories. Standard safety features beneficial for seniors include blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning and prevention, plus front crash prevention systems rated “Superior” for vehicle-to-vehicle and pedestrian detection. These advanced technologies work in harmony to provide a heightened sense of security.
Seating for up to eight passengers comes standard, with front passengers enjoying 41.7 inches of legroom and second-row passengers 39.4 inches. The stadium-style seating improves visibility for all. Cargo space is 14.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 74.2 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. Starting at $38,045, the CX-90 excels for seniors desiring premium features, three-row flexibility, and advanced safety in a stylish package.
11. **Volkswagen Taos**: When exploring subcompact SUVs for retirement, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos stands out, recognized by Edmunds for its roominess and extensive driver-assist features. This model expertly balances a compact footprint with a surprisingly spacious interior, making it comfortable for daily errands and longer trips. It’s an ideal choice for seniors who appreciate a nimble vehicle that can still accommodate passengers and cargo with ease.
The Taos prioritizes safety and convenience through its integrated driver-assist technologies. According to Car and Driver, the 2025 model includes essential features such as blind-spot monitoring for unseen vehicles, and forward collision warnings to prevent potential accidents. Furthermore, lane-centering features contribute to a more relaxed and secure driving experience, actively assisting the driver in maintaining proper lane position on highways.
Beyond its advanced safety systems, the Volkswagen Taos offers a user-friendly cabin design. Reviewers highlight the presence of physical buttons and controls, which are intuitively placed and easy to operate—a significant advantage for retirees who prefer tactile controls over complex touch-sensitive interfaces. This thoughtful design ensures essential functions are simple to manage. Starting at an accessible MSRP of $26,420, the Taos offers a compelling package of comfort, safety, and straightforward usability.
12. **Honda HR-V**: For retirees seeking a reliable and comfortable ride without stretching their budget, the 2025 Honda HR-V emerges as a solid contender, noted by Edmunds for its balanced performance and consumer-centric design. This compact SUV delivers a notably comfortable ride quality and boasts responsive handling that makes it a joy to drive in various conditions. Its smooth demeanor and manageable size make it an ideal companion for seniors valuing ease of maneuverability and a relaxed driving experience.
Safety is inherently built into the HR-V, as it comes standard with the comprehensive Honda Sensing suite, a collection of advanced driver-assist features designed to enhance protection and reduce driver fatigue. This includes crucial systems like lane-keeping assistance, which gently helps guide the vehicle within its lane, and adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts speed to maintain a safe following distance. These integrated technologies work seamlessly and intuitively to provide an extra layer of confidence on the road.
The thoughtful integration of safety and comfort features positions the HR-V as an excellent choice for older drivers. Its dependable performance, coupled with intuitive driver-assist technologies, ensures seniors can navigate with greater confidence and peace of mind. With a starting MSRP of approximately $26,450, the Honda HR-V offers a practical and secure solution for retirees looking for a vehicle that’s both pleasant to drive and exceptionally safe for the long term.
As we’ve journeyed through this curated selection of 2025 SUVs, it’s clear that today’s market offers an incredible array of vehicles specifically designed to enhance the retirement lifestyle. From rugged explorers ready for any adventure to luxurious cruisers prioritizing ultimate comfort, each model brings a unique blend of safety, accessibility, and enduring value. The right SUV isn’t just a mode of transport; it’s a gateway to continued independence, memorable family moments, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. With these meticulously researched options, you’re not just buying a car; you’re investing in years of comfortable, confident, and enriched driving, ensuring your golden years are truly golden.
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