19 best cars that are easy to get in and out of + their safety features

Author profile picture

Susan Meyer

Senior Editorial Manager

Susan is a licensed insurance agent and has worked as a writer and editor for over 10 years across a number of industries. She has worked at The Zebr…

Credentials
  • Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty
Author profile picture

Beth Swanson

SEO Content Strategist

Beth joined The Zebra in 2022 as an Associate Content Strategist. She is a licensed insurance agent whose goal is to make insurance content easy to r…

Credentials
  • Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty

Get personalized car insurance quotes in under five minutes!

Location pin icon
No junk mail. No spam calls. Free quotes.

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.

  1. Subaru Forester
  2. Honda Odyssey
  3. Hyundai Sonata
  4. Jeep Renegade
  5. Kia Soul
  6. Volkswagen Golf GTI
  7. Ford Escape
  8. Nissan Versa
  9. Acura RDX
  10. Nissan Rogue
  11. Honda Civic
  12. Chevrolet Silverado
  13. Toyota Scion xB
  14. Chrysler Pacifica
  15. Toyota Sienna
  16. Jeep Grand Cherokee
  17. Ford Mustang
  18. Honda Pilot
  19. 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.

 Subaru-forester.jpg

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.

2022 Subaru Forester NHTSA rating: 5/5
Specifications: Possible adaptations:
MSRP: $25,195 Liftback trunk
Engine: 2.5 L 4-cylinder Pedal extensions
Horsepower: 182 hp Steering devices
Towing capacity: 1,500-3,000 lbs Hand and foot controls
Dimensions: 183” L x 72” W x 68-69” H Left-hand gear shifter
Seating capacity: 5 Servo-assisted controls
Miles per gallon: 26 city / 33 highway Turn signal 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-odyssey.jpg

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]

2022 Honda Odyssey NHTSA rating: 5/5
Specifications: Possible adaptations:
MSRP: $32,290 In-floor ramps
Engine: 3.5 L V6 Extended cabin
Horsepower: 280 hp Interchangeable front seats
Towing capacity: 3,500 lbs Interior floor lighting
Dimensions: 205” L x 79” W x 68-70” H Parking sensor
Seating capacity: 7-8 Electronic controls
Miles per gallon: 19 city / 28 highway Lowering suspensions

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.

 Hyundai-sonata.jpg

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]

2022 Hyundai Sonata NHTSA rating: 5/5
Specifications: Possible adaptations:
MSRP: $24,150 Emergency call system
Engine: 1.6 L 4-cylinder, 2.5 L 4-cylinder Swivel seats
Horsepower: 180-290 hp Pedal extensions
Towing capacity: 1,234 lbs Running boards
Dimensions: 193” L x 73” W x 57” H Alert hearing devices
Seating capacity: 5 Support handles
Miles per gallon: 28 city / 38 highway Dashboard ignition

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.

 Jeep-renegade.jpg

In addition, Jeep often offers a reimbursement of $1,000 for conversions for drivers with disabilities, such as ramps and driving controls.[6]

 

2022 Jeep Renegade NHTSA rating: 4/5
Specifications: Possible adaptations:
MSRP: $22,495 Removable front seats
Engine: 1.3 L 4-cylinder Lowered floors and ramps
Horsepower: 177 hp Lifts
Towing capacity: 2,000 lbs Carriers
Dimensions: 167” L x 74” W x 67” H Driving controls
Seating capacity: 5 Running boards
Miles per gallon: 24 city / 32 highway Transfer seats

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.

 Kia-soul.jpg

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]

2022 Kia Soul NHTSA rating: 4/5
Specifications: Possible adaptations:
MSRP: $19,190 Ramps
Engine: 1.6 L 4-cylinder, 2.0 L 4-cylinder Power transfer seats
Horsepower: 147-201 hp Hand controls
Towing capacity: 1,200 lbs Commercial-grade flooring
Dimensions: 165” L x 71” W x 63” H  
Seating capacity: 5  
Miles per gallon: 28 city / 33 highway  

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.

 Volkswagen-golf-GTI.jpg

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]

2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI NHTSA rating: 5/5
Specifications: Possible adaptations:
MSRP: $29,545 Wheelchair securement system
Engine: 2.0 L 4-cylinder Lift equipment
Horsepower: 241 hp Carriers
Towing capacity: 3,500 lbs Hand controls
Dimensions: 169” L x 70” W x 58” H Pedal extensions
Seating capacity: 5  
Miles per gallon: 25 city / 34 highway  

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.

 Ford-Escape.jpg

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]

2022 Ford Escape NHTSA rating: 5/5
Specifications: Possible adaptations:
MSRP: $25,555 Lifts and Carriers
Engine: 1.5 L 3-cylinder, 2.0 L 4-cylinder, 2.5 L 4-cylinder Hand controls
Horsepower: 181-250 hp Power assist seats
Towing capacity: 1,500-3,500 lbs Parking brakes
Dimensions: 181” L x 74” W x 66” H Door openers
Seating capacity: 5 Steering devices
Miles per gallon: 44 city / 37 highway Wheelchair restraints

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.

 Nissan-versa

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]

2021 Nissan Versa NHTSA rating: 5/5
Specifications: Possible adaptations:
MSRP: $14,980 Ramps
Engine: 1.6 L 4-cylinder Hand controls
Horsepower: 122 hp Lifts
Towing capacity: 992 lbs Left foot accelerator
Dimensions: 177” L x 69” W x 57-58” H Turning automotive seating
Seating capacity: 5  
Miles per gallon: 32 city / 40 highway  

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.

 Acura-RDX.jpg

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]

2021 Acura RDX NHTSA rating: 5/5
Specifications: Possible adaptations:
MSRP: $38,400 Lifts
Engine: 1.6 L 4-cylinder Ramps
Horsepower: 272 hp Adjustable foot pedals
Towing capacity: 1,500 lbs Support handles
Dimensions: 187” L x 75” W x 66” H Seat adjusters
Seating capacity: 5 Dashboard ignition
Miles per gallon: 22 city / 28 highway  

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.

 Nissan-rogue.jpg

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]

2021 Nissan Rogue NHTSA rating: 5/5
Specifications: Possible adaptations:
MSRP: $26,050 Ramps
Engine: 2.5 L 4-cylinder Hand controls
Horsepower: 181 hp Lifts
Towing capacity: 1,350 lbs Left foot accelerator
Dimensions: 183” L x 72” W x 67” H Turning automotive seating
Seating capacity: 5  
Miles per gallon: 27 city / 35 highway  

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.

 Honda-civic.jpg

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]

2022 Honda Civic NHTSA rating: 5/5
Specifications: Possible adaptations:
MSRP: $21,900 Lifts
Engine: 1.5 L 4-cylinder, 2.0 L 4-cylinder Ramps
Horsepower: 158-180 hp Adjustable foot pedals
Towing capacity: 1100 lbs Support handles
Dimensions: 179-184” L x 71” W x 56” H Seat adjusters
Seating capacity: 5 Dashboard ignition
Miles per gallon: 36 city / 42 highway  

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-silverado.jpg

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]

2022 Chevrolet Silverado NHTSA rating: 4/5
Specifications: Possible adaptations:
MSRP: $30,400 Adaptive steering system
Engine: 2.7 L 4-cylinder, 3.0 L 6-cylinder diesel Swivel seat
Horsepower: 277-420 hp Assistive handles
Towing capacity: 8,900-9,700 lbs Ramps
Dimensions: 230-241” L x 81” W x 75-78” H Lifts
Seating capacity: 5-6 Driving consolers
Miles per gallon: 23 city / 31 highway Brake and accelerator modifications

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.

 Toyota-scion-xB.jpg

The Toyota Scion xB can also be modified to include wheelchair lifts, swivel seats, wheel restraints and hand controls. 

2015 Toyota Scion xB NHTSA rating: 4/5
Specifications: Possible adaptations:
MSRP: $18,000 Hand controls
Engine: 2.4 L 4-cylinder Lifts
Horsepower: 158 hp Lift-up seats
Towing capacity: 3,500 lbs Swivel seats
Dimensions: 168” L x 69” W x 63” H  
Seating capacity: 5  
Miles per gallon: 22 city / 37 highway  

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-pacifica.jpg

Chrysler is also part of the FCA DriveAbility Program, which reimburses up to $1,000 for necessary vehicle modification.[6]

2022 Chrysler Pacifica NHTSA rating: 5/5
Specifications: Possible adaptations:
MSRP: $37,095 Removable front seats
Engine: 3.6 L V6 Lowered floors and ramps
Horsepower: 287 hp Lifts
Towing capacity: 3,600 lbs Carriers
Dimensions: 204” L x 80” W x 70-71” H Driving controls
Seating capacity: 7 Running boards
Miles per gallon: 19 city / 28 highway Transfer seats

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.

 Toyota-sienna.jpg

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]

2022 Toyota Sienna NHTSA rating: 5/5
Specifications: Possible adaptations:
MSRP: $34,560 Hand controls
Engine: 2.5 L 4-cylinder Lifts
Horsepower: 245 hp Lift-up seats
Towing capacity: 3,500 lbs Swivel seats
Dimensions: 204” L x 79” W x 69-70” H Ramps
Seating capacity: 7-8 Wheelchair restraints
Miles per gallon: 36 city / 36 highway  

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.

 Jeep-grand-cherokee.jpg

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]

2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee NHTSA rating: 5/5
Specifications: Possible adaptations:
MSRP: $38,890 Removable front seats
Engine: 3.6 L V6, 5.7 L V8 Lowered floors and ramps
Horsepower: 290-357 hp Lifts
Towing capacity: 6,200 hp Carriers
Dimensions: 205” L x 78” W x 72” H Driving controls
Seating capacity: 6 Running boards
Miles per gallon: 19 city / 26 highway Transfer seats

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.

 Ford-mustang.jpg

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]

2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E NHTSA rating: 5/5
Specifications: Possible adaptations:
MSRP: $42,895 Carriers and lifts
Engine: Electric Hand controls
Horsepower: 266-459 hp Parking brakes
Towing capacity: 3,500 Door openers
Dimensions: 186” L x 74” W x 63” H  Steering devices
Seating capacity: 5 Wheelchair restraints
Miles per gallon: 108 city / 94 highway Power assist seats

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.

 Honda-pilot.jpg

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]

2022 Honda Pilot NHTSA rating: 5/5
Specifications: Possible adaptations:
MSRP: $36,830 Lifts
Engine: 3.5 L V6 Ramps
Horsepower: 280 hp Adjustable foot pedals
Towing capacity: 500-5,000 lbs Support handles
Dimensions: 197” L x 79” W x 71” H Seat adjusters
Seating capacity: 7-8 Dashboard ignition
Miles per gallon: 20 city / 27 highway  

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.

 Dodge-grand-caravan.jpg

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]

2020 Dodge Grand Caravan NHTSA rating: 4/5
Specifications: Possible adaptations:
MSRP: $27,530 Removable front seats
Engine: 2.4 L 4-cylinder, 3.6 L V6 Lowered floors and ramps
Horsepower: 283 hp Lifts and carriers
Towing capacity: 3,600 lbs Driving controls
Dimensions: 203″ L x 79″ W x 68″ H Running boards
Seating capacity: 7 Transfer seats
Miles per gallon: 17 city / 25 highway  

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.


Sources
  1. From windscreen wipers to crash tests and pedestrian protection. The AA

  2. Subaru Mobility Assistance. Subaru

  3. Removable Seating in Your Wheelchair Van. BraunAbility

  4. Customer Mobility Assistance. Honda

  5. Mobility Program. Hyundai

  6. DriveAbility. Stellantis

  7. Kia Motors LAunches 'Kiamobility' to Diversify Mobility Services. Kia

  8. Volkswagen Group of America launches Inclusive Mobility Initiative. Volkswagen U.S.

  9. Accessibility. Ford

  10. Nissan Mobility Assist Program. Nissan

  11. Adaptive Mobility Rebate Program. Adaptive Dealer

  12. Adapting Motor Vehicles for People with Disabilities. NHTSA

  13. Mobility. Toyota