If you’ve ever found yourself wincing while trying to get into a low-seated hatchback or struggling with the stiffness of a manual gearbox, you’re not the only one. For drivers aged 70 and over in the UK, the search for the perfect car is less about horsepower and more about comfort.

As of May 2023, more than 6 million people aged 70+ held a full driving license in Great Britain – that’s about 14% of all license holders. This number is rising every year, making it more important than ever to identify which cars truly cater to the needs of older drivers.

Let’s break down the 5 best cars for elderly drivers in the UK, covering everything from comfort to assistance technology and safety.

Key Takeaways

1. Each car offers excellent accessibility features like high seating positions, wide-opening doors, and spacious interiors that make getting in and out much easier for older drivers.


2. Comfort and simplicity are consistent across the board,
   with user-friendly controls, smooth automatic gearboxes, and quiet cabins designed to reduce stress while driving.


3. All models are praised for their strong safety features, such as lane assist, adaptive cruise control, and parking aids, offering peace of mind on the road.


4. Fuel efficiency and low running costs – especially with hybrid options in the Corolla and Jazz – make these cars affordable to own and run long-term.


5. Each vehicle represents great value on the used car market, especially when sourced from trusted dealers like Cars Under £3000.

1) Honda Jazz – The All-Round Champion

The Honda Jazz has built a reputation as one of the best cars for elderly drivers thanks to its practical design and excellent visibility.

For starters, it features a high seating position and wide-opening doors, making it one of the best cars for elderly people to get in and out of. Inside, there’s plenty of headroom, easy-to-reach controls, and an airy cabin that doesn’t complicate things with buttons.

With low running costs and proven Honda reliability, this little hatchback continues to be a firm favourite for older UK drivers.

• Easy access: High seating position and wide-opening doors make it easy to get in and out.
• Comfortable cabin: Plenty of headroom, simple controls, and a light, airy feel.
• Smooth to drive: Many models come with automatic transmission and hybrid engines, making driving simpler and more fuel-efficient.
• Safe on the road: Newer trims include features like lane-keeping assist and collision mitigation braking.
• Reliable and low-cost: Honda’s reputation for reliability and the Jazz’s low running costs make it a smart buy for older drivers.

2) Hyundai i10 – Comfortable, Compact, and Smart

The Hyundai i10 has earned its stripes as one of the most reliable small cars on UK roads, and it’s a solid option for elderly drivers who value simplicity and comfort without making a dent in the bank.

Despite its compact size, the i10 offers surprisingly good interior space, making it easy to manoeuvre in tight parking spots while still being roomy enough for everyday journeys. With a high-quality build, smooth automatic options, and user-friendly controls, it’s a fuss-free vehicle that’s particularly ideal for shorter trip or local errands.

• Perfect for city driving: Its compact size makes it easy to park and manoeuvre.
• Spacious interior: Surprisingly roomy inside for a small car, with a high-quality feel.
• Simple to use: Smooth automatic gearboxes and a straightforward dashboard layout.
• Affordable and dependable: Great value on the second-hand market, especially at places like Cars Under £3000.

3) Toyota Corolla – Dependable and Easy to Drive

Known for its legendary reliability and sensible running costs, the Toyota Corolla has long been a favourite among older drivers. Whether you’re popping to the shops or heading off on a longer journey, the Corolla’s smooth ride, excellent fuel economy, and intuitive infotainment make every trip a pleasure.

The Corolla is also available with hybrid powertrains, which are ideal for those looking to reduce fuel costs without sacrificing performance. If you’re after a used automatic car that balances comfort, safety, and efficiency, the Corolla fits the bill.

• Comfortable ride: Soft suspension and well-padded seats make long journeys more pleasant.
• Fuel-efficient: Excellent MPG and hybrid options help keep costs low.
• Safety features: Includes adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and automatic emergency braking.
• Easy to drive: A smooth automatic gearbox and simple infotainment system make this a stress-free car to own.

4) Skoda Kamiq – Big Comfort in a Compact SUV

Don’t let the badge fool you, the Skoda Kamiq punches well above its price tag in terms of practicality and comfort.

This car shines in three key areas for older drivers: spaciousness, safety, and simplicity. With large door openings, an elevated ride height, and a roomy cabin, it’s one of the best cars for elderly drivers who need extra accessibility without moving into full-sized SUVs.

• Easy access: Elevated ride height and large door openings make getting in and out easier.
• Spacious interior: Roomy enough for passengers and shopping bags alike.
• Advanced safety: Blind-spot monitoring, rear sensors, and adaptive cruise control on many trims.
• Compact for the city: Fits well into tight spaces while still offering SUV-like comfort.
• Great value: Built by the Volkswagen Group, so you get top-notch German engineering at a lower price.

5) Nissan Qashqai – Easy Access Meets Clever Design

The Nissan Qashqai combines the elevated seating and practicality of an SUV with the easy driving dynamics of a hatchback, making it one of the best cars for elderly drivers.

Many models come with advanced safety tech, including parking sensors, reversing cameras, and blind spot alerts. For older drivers who want something that’s both functional and enjoyable to drive, the Qashqai is a well-rounded, age-friendly option, especially when found at an affordable price. This car can also come with a diesel engine, if that’s what you prefer.

• High driving position: Better visibility helps drivers feel more in control.
• Comfortable and accessible: Wide-opening doors and supportive seats make it one of the easiest cars to get in and out of.
• Helpful tech: Look out for reversing cameras, parking sensors, and blind spot alerts in many trims.
• Versatile and reliable: Easy to drive, packed with features, and widely available at second-hand dealerships like Cars Under £3000

What Makes a Car Great for Elderly Drivers?

When choosing the best car for elderly drivers, it’s about more than just getting from A to B. Here’s what really matters:

Comfort & Accessibility

Look for high seating positions, large door openings, and adjustable seats with lumbar support. These features make daily driving less of a strain, especially for people with joint or mobility issues.

Safety

Advanced safety technology like lane assist, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control can be an added benefit. Choose a car with high Euro NCAP safety ratings, particularly for drivers who may be slower to react in emergencies.

Ease of Use

An automatic gearbox is often preferred, reducing the effort of gear changes and clutch use. Combine that with clear infotainment systems and reversing cameras, and the whole experience becomes far more enjoyable.

Practicality

Boot space matters, especially if you’re carrying a mobility aid, shopping, or even the grandkids. Compact crossovers offer just the right amount of room without being bulky.

Reliability & Running Costs

No one wants a car that’s constantly in the garage. Choose models known for reliability and low upkeep.

Ready to Find Your Next Car?

Whether you’re looking for the best car for elderly drivers or simply want something easier to drive, Cars Under £3000 is here to help. Based in Essex, we offer a wide range of cheap, reliable used cars with features perfect for older drivers, many under £3,000, and with automatic options, ULEZ-compliant models, and diesel choices available.

You don’t need to sacrifice safety, comfort, or quality just because you’re buying second-hand. At Cars Under £3000, we make car buying simple, enjoyable, and worry-free – no matter your age.