As more Americans over 60 seek reliable, comfortable, and safe vehicles for their everyday needs, SUVs have emerged as the top choice for older drivers. Whether it’s for ease of entry, better road visibility, or peace of mind through modern safety tech, the right SUV can make a world of difference.
In 2025, automakers continue to refine SUVs with adaptive features specifically beneficial for seniors, including enhanced seating ergonomics, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), and improved ride comfort. This guide explores the best SUVs for people in their 60s, 70s, and 80s, backed by industry reviews, expert recommendations, and real-world considerations for aging drivers.
Why Seniors Are Choosing SUVs
According to a 2024 report by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), drivers aged 60+ are more likely than any other age group to choose midsize or compact SUVs due to:
- Higher seating positions for better visibility
- Easier entry and exit compared to sedans or trucks
- Advanced safety features like blind-spot warnings and emergency braking
- Cargo flexibility for groceries, mobility aids, or travel
“The right SUV can increase confidence and reduce fatigue for older drivers — especially when paired with the right safety technology,” says Laura Henderson, automotive mobility researcher at AAA.
What Makes an SUV Senior-Friendly?
Before diving into specific models, here are features older drivers consistently prioritize:
- Low step-in height (for easy entry/exit)
- Heated, power-adjustable seats with lumbar support
- Large windows and rearview cameras for visibility
- Smooth ride quality and quiet cabin
- Simple dashboard controls and voice command support
- Standard safety tech, including lane keeping and pedestrian detection
- Affordable ownership costs and solid fuel efficiency
Top SUVs for Seniors in Their 60s: Active & Independent
Seniors in their 60s tend to be more active, often still working, traveling, or caring for grandkids. They typically want an SUV that’s stylish, tech-savvy, and responsive on the road — but still comfortable for long drives.
🔹 2025 Subaru Forester
- Why it’s great: All-wheel drive, excellent visibility, and EyeSight safety suite
- Comfort factor: Wide door openings and supportive seating
- Fuel economy: 29 MPG combined
- Bonus: High resale value and top IIHS safety scores
🔹 2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid
- Why it’s great: Great ride quality and quiet hybrid performance
- Comfort factor: Roomy cabin, adjustable seating, and smooth acceleration
- Tech: Includes wireless Apple CarPlay and standard Honda Sensing
- Fuel economy: 40+ MPG (hybrid)
🔹 2025 Hyundai Tucson
- Why it’s great: Bold design with senior-friendly features
- Comfort factor: Heated/ventilated seats, wide-opening doors
- Safety: SmartSense suite includes parking sensors, blind spot collision avoidance
- Warranty: 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
Best SUVs for Seniors in Their 70s: Prioritizing Comfort & Safety
Drivers in their 70s tend to focus more on ease of driving, low maintenance, and top-tier safety features that support slower reaction times or minor physical limitations.
🔹 2025 Toyota RAV4 Prime
- Why it’s great: Plug-in hybrid with smooth handling and quick acceleration
- Comfort factor: Power liftgate, padded ride, quiet cabin
- Safety: Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise
- EV bonus: Up to 42 miles on electric power alone
🔹 2025 Ford Edge
- Why it’s great: Midsize, easy to handle, excellent highway comfort
- Comfort factor: Large touchscreen with voice controls, cushioned ride
- Visibility: Wide side mirrors, clear camera angles, and rear cross-traffic alert
- Ease of use: Push-button gear selector and physical knobs
🔹 2025 Buick Envision
- Why it’s great: Known for luxury touches at a mid-level price
- Comfort factor: QuietTuning technology for reduced noise and fatigue
- Safety: Rear pedestrian alert and automatic braking standard
- Luxury feel: Power-adjustable heated leather seats, heads-up display
Best SUVs for Seniors in Their 80s: Ease, Visibility & Simplified Controls
Older adults in their 80s often seek straightforward controls, high reliability, and superior driver-assist technology that helps them stay safe without complex tech. Comfort and ride height for easier entry become top priorities.
🔹 2025 Toyota Highlander
- Why it’s great: Comfortable three-row option with wide doors and grab handles
- Comfort factor: Smooth suspension, low floor height for easy entry
- Safety: Includes driver attention monitoring and 360° camera
- Bonus: High reliability scores from J.D. Power
🔹 2025 Kia Sportage
- Why it’s great: Value-packed with excellent safety and cabin accessibility
- Comfort factor: Reclining rear seats, easy step-in height
- Safety: Forward collision avoidance and lane-follow assist included
- Warranty: 5-year bumper-to-bumper standard
🔹 2025 Nissan Rogue
- Why it’s great: Simple dashboard, strong safety rating, smooth drive
- Comfort factor: Zero Gravity seats reduce fatigue
- Visibility: Excellent sight lines and large digital display
- Bonus: ProPILOT Assist helps with gentle steering and cruise
🏷️ Price Range and Ownership Costs (2025 Estimates)
- Compact SUVs (CR-V, Tucson, Rogue): $28,000–$37,000
- Midsize SUVs (Edge, Highlander): $35,000–$45,000
- Luxury/Upgraded trims (Envision, RAV4 Prime): $40,000–$50,000+
- Maintenance: Compact and hybrid models offer lower annual upkeep
- Insurance: Typically lower for seniors with clean driving records
⚠️ Mistakes to Avoid When Buying an SUV as a Senior
- Choosing style over accessibility (e.g., high step-in height)
- Ignoring rear seat comfort for grandkids or caretakers
- Overcomplicating with too much tech — test screen size & button layout
- Forgetting to test drive on both city streets and highways
- Not asking about adaptive add-ons like hand controls, lift assistance, or seat risers
Final Thoughts: The Right SUV Makes a Big Difference
The best SUV for seniors isn't just about horsepower or price — it’s about comfort, confidence, and ease of use. Whether you're entering your 60s and want more utility, or in your 80s and need extra support, 2025 offers more senior-friendly options than ever before.
By focusing on ergonomics, visibility, safety, and low-stress driving, you can find an SUV that fits your lifestyle — and lets you enjoy the road ahead with peace of mind.
FAQs
Q: Are SUVs safer for older drivers than sedans?
A: Generally, yes — SUVs offer better visibility, more space, and advanced safety tech that can help compensate for slower reaction times.
Q: Which SUV is easiest for seniors to get in and out of?
A: The Subaru Forester and Kia Sportage are often praised for low step-in heights and wide door openings.
Q: What safety features should I look for?
A: Prioritize blind-spot detection, lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, and a 360-degree camera if possible.
Q: Is AWD necessary for seniors?
A: It depends on your climate. In snowy or rainy areas, AWD offers added security and confidence.
Q: Are hybrid SUVs reliable for older drivers?
A: Yes — especially models from Toyota and Honda, which have decades of proven hybrid systems.
Resources and References
- AAA Senior Driving Research: https://seniordriving.aaa.com
- IIHS Vehicle Ratings: https://www.iihs.org/ratings
- Consumer Reports – Best Cars for Seniors 2025
- J.D. Power Reliability Scores – 2025 Model Year
- Kelley Blue Book – SUV Ownership Costs by Age Group
- NHTSA Safety Ratings: https://www.nhtsa.gov/ratings
