Which cars are the most accessible?
The first car was on the road way back in the late 1800s, but safety features like the rearview mirror (first used in 1911), padded dashboards (1940s) and seatbelts (1950s) weren’t exactly a fast follow.[1] These days, with more than 286 million drivers on the road in the U.S., technological improvements on car safety features have had to make some big leaps. Nowadays, most newly released car models come equipped with rear-view cameras, lane-keeping assist, blind spot monitors and even self-driving capabilities.
As safety technology has evolved over the years, so too have accessibility and adaptation features. However, drivers with disabilities can still have a hard time finding a car that feels safe or accessible even if the car is equipped with an array of safety features and drivers have the best car insurance.
To help your car shopping journey, we’ve gathered an extensive list of 2022’s best cars that are easy to get in and out of and how they can be adapted for accessibility. We also highlight the available safety features that are a priority for any driver.
- Subaru Forester
- Honda Odyssey
- Hyundai Sonata
- Jeep Renegade
- Kia Soul
- Volkswagen Golf GTI
- Ford Escape
- Nissan Versa
- Acura RDX
- Nissan Rogue
- Honda Civic
- Chevrolet Silverado
- Toyota Scion xB
- Chrysler Pacifica
- Toyota Sienna
- Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Ford Mustang
- Honda Pilot
- Dodge Grand Caravan
Common features of cars that are easy to get in and out of
When finding the best car for drivers with disabilities, there are important features to keep in mind when test driving and purchasing it. Here are some common features of accessible cars:
- Hand controls
- Manual or power-assisted seats
- Lifts
- Ramps
- Low height
- Cargo space
- High ceiling height
- Dashboard or keyless ignition
- Automatic transmission
- Buttonless shifter
- Automatic locks and windows
- Large seat size
- Cruise control
- Adjustable pedals
You’ll find many of these features in the cars that made our list, so keep an eye out for anything that is a priority for you.
1. Subaru Forester
Voted the best compact SUV over the years, the Subaru Forester is ideal both for off-roaders and for people who want a vehicle with enough space but that isn’t too big or too high. It comes equipped with a rear-view camera, lane-keeping assist, pre-collision braking and blind spot detection.
All Subaru models can also be modified to combine features, such as pedal extensions and steering devices, as part of the Subaru Mobility Assist Program.[2] The program provides reimbursement of up to $1,000 for necessary vehicle modifications.
2. Honda Odyssey
Minivans provide more room and low floors, which is why the Honda Odyssey is a great option for people in wheelchairs. This minivan is equipped with tech features to assist driving, such as a blind spot information system and a multi-angle rear-view camera.
Honda also offers a mobility assistance program that allows you to replace the driver seat with a step and roll seat, as well as add in-floor ramps.[3] They will also provide a reimbursement of up to $1,000 for eligible modifications.[4]
3. Hyundai Sonata
Although minivans tend to be the most popular accessible cars, the Hyundai Sonata sedan is a more compact option that still offers accessibility and safety features. This mid-size low-ride vehicle has plenty of room to get in and out with ease and is equipped with supportive seats and a smart system that can make emergency calls.
If you need to make your car more accessible, Hyundai also has a mobility program that gives you up to $1,000 toward adaptive equipment, such as pedal extensions and dashboard ignition.[5]
4. Jeep Renegade
If a sports utility vehicle is more to your liking, the Jeep Renegade is an affordable option that also offers accessibility features for drivers with disabilities. With heated steering, seats with lumbar support and a backup camera, drivers can feel comfortable and safe when driving this sporty car.
In addition, Jeep often offers a reimbursement of $1,000 for conversions for drivers with disabilities, such as ramps and driving controls.[6]
5. Kia Soul
If you're looking for a compact car with a sportier look, the Kia Soul provides drivers with lower ground clearance, large doors and 52 inches of interior height. Although it's a compact vehicle, the Kia Soul offers plenty of space, making it easy to get in and out of and store wheelchairs and other equipment.
Although the KiaMobility reimbursement program is not yet available in the United States, third-party companies can still install adaptive equipment for the Kia Soul.[7]
6. Volkswagen Golf GTI
A popular vehicle amongst sports car enthusiasts is the Volkswagen Golf GTI, which surprisingly is also one of the best cars that are easy to get in and out of. This compact car not only provides comfortable seats, but the hatchback makes it easy to load and unload assistive devices. The newer models are also equipped with blind-spot monitors and park and rear traffic assist.
Golfs are included in Volkswagen’s Inclusive Mobility program, providing a refund of up to $1,000 for modifications, such as hand controls and pedal extensions.[8]
7. Ford Escape
The reliable Ford Escape combines quality with comfort and makes getting in and out of the car a breeze. This small SUV with low step-in height is equipped with intelligent adaptive cruise control and second-row sliding seats for extra space.
The Ford Escape is easily customizable to include features such as ramps and hand controls. They are also part of an accessible vehicle program that offers up to $1,000 in adaptive equipment reimbursement.[9]
8. Nissan Versa
If affordability is a top priority for you, the Nissan Versa combines good visibility and driveability for a price that won't break the bank. This subcompact car comes equipped with a backup camera and parking sensors and has a decent height that makes loading and unloading easy.
Adapting your vehicle is also made easy with the Nissan Mobility Assist Program which offers up to $1,000 in reimbursement for accessibility modifications.[10]
9. Acura RDX
Combining adjustable passenger and driver seats with lots of legroom, the Acura RDX is a compact SUV that's easy to get in and out of. This premium sports crossover might come at a hefty price, but features such as collision mitigation braking systems, pedestrian and traffic sign detection and a surround-view camera make it a good car for people with disabilities.
As part of the Acura Mobility Program, you can get a rebate of up to $1,000 on modifications approved by the NHTSA, such as adjustable foot pedals and large interior door handles.[11],[12]
10. Nissan Rogue
With an affordable price and a sporty look, the Nissan Rogue combines features such as heated seats, parking sensors and four cameras with ProPilot Assist. This support system includes highway mapping and speed limit detections to help drivers feel safe on the road.
This spacious and tech-forward SUV can also be modified with accessible features and is part of the Nissan Mobility Assist Program that offers up to $1,000 reimbursement for accessibility modifications.[10]
11. Honda Civic
The well-known and reliable Honda Civic is also one of the best accessible cars for drivers with disabilities. With a lower ground clearance, this car is still comfortable, has enough leg room and is equipped with electric adjustable seats, multi-angle rear-view cameras and blind spot sensors.
The Honda Civic can also be modified with some adaptive equipment and is part of the Honda mobility assistance program that offers reimbursement for up to $1,000.[4]
12. Chevrolet Silverado
If you're a fan of pickup trucks, the Chevrolet Silverado delivers comfort inside a sturdy body. This truck is equipped with 15 camera views and lane keeping assist, but can also be modified to add ramps, scooter lifts, swivel seats and hand controls.
Chevrolet also doesn't skimp out on the benefits. As part of the General Motors Accessibility Program, they offer up to $1,000 on eligible adaptive systems, $1,000 reimbursement on adaptations and a two-year security plan.[13]
13. Toyota Scion xB
If you're looking for a pre-owned vehicle, the Toyota Scion xB can be a good option, since its last model came out in 2015. This compact car is still a great accessible car, as it offers much space for both the driver and the passenger. The rear seats can be folded to create more space and allow assistive equipment to be stored.
The Toyota Scion xB can also be modified to include wheelchair lifts, swivel seats, wheel restraints and hand controls.
14. Chrysler Pacifica
As a three-row minivan, the Chrysler Pacifica makes things simple with easy-to-fold seats and hands-free sliding doors, with an added bonus of being comfortable. This family minivan is also equipped with safety features such as active braking assist and adaptive cruise control.
Chrysler is also part of the FCA DriveAbility Program, which reimburses up to $1,000 for necessary vehicle modification.[6]
15. Toyota Sienna
The Toyota Sienna is also one of the best cars for people with disabilities. Apart from being spacious — accommodating wheelchairs and equipment of all sizes — this minivan can be converted to be wheelchair-accessible. The Toyota Sienna is also equipped with blind spot monitors and rear cross-traffic alert.
The Toyota Sienna is also part of the Toyota Mobility Program that offers reimbursement of up to $1,000 on adaptive equipment, such as hand controls and hitch-mounted lifts.[14]
16. Jeep Grand Cherokee
Another one on the list for off-roading lovers is the Jeep Grand Cherokee, which is packed with safety features like active lane management and blind spot monitoring. This mid-size SUV is still very spacious on top of allowing various modifications, including power seats, wheelchair tie-downs, lifts and running boards.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is also part of the FCA DriveAbility Program which offers a reimbursement of $1,000 for conversions for drivers with disabilities.[6]
17. Ford Mustang Mach-E
If you're a muscle car fan, you might be surprised to find out that the Ford Mustang is also one of the best cars that are easy to get in and out of. Known for its sports reputation, the newest model is also electric, making it a great car for commuting. The Mustang can also be equipped with hand controls, power-assisted seats and steering gadgets.
To make it more accessible, the Ford Mustang can be fitted with wheelchair restraints, power assist brakes and carriers. Ford also has an accessibility program that reimburses up to $1,000 for this equipment.[9]
18. Honda Pilot
When searching for a mid-size SUV that's accessible, the Honda Pilot is another great option. This spacious car satisfies the needs of drivers with disabilities, especially those using wheelchairs. With multiple seating configurations, this car can fit up to eight people and is equipped with a blind spot system and multi-angle rear-view cameras.
The Honda Pilot can easily be converted for accessibility by adding ramps, support handles and adjustable foot pedals. They will also provide a reimbursement of up to $1,000 for eligible modifications as part of the mobility assistance program.[4]
19. Dodge Grand Caravan
The spacious Dodge Grand Caravan is a seven-seater minivan that can be considered one of the best cars for people with disabilities. This minivan is not only comfortable to drive and able to fit wheelchairs and walkers, but it also includes a rear-view camera and a stability control system.
Eligible buyers can also use the FCA DriveAbility Program, which reimburses up to $1,000 for necessary vehicle modifications, such as adding a ramp, lifts and hand controls.[6]
Wrapping up
Feeling safe when driving is especially important for drivers with disabilities. The list of the best cars that are easy to get in and out of can help you find your dream car that will make you feel safe and includes important features to look for when test-driving. However, even if the car is equipped with the best safety technology, it won’t lower your insurance, so finding the best car insurance for your needs can also help you gain peace of mind when getting from point A to point B.