Thinking of buying a new car in 2021? The car-buying experience can sometimes be a frustrating one if you have specific needs as a disabled driver or passenger. Luckily, there are several great models on the market that come with helpful features and can also be modified if necessary. Here’s some info on options for the best small car for a disabled driver in 2021.
What is the best car to buy in 2021?
There are a few factors you should think through before you start shopping for automatic cars for disabled drivers. Take some time to consider what you need in a vehicle, either as a disabled driver or as a passenger. Do you need a car that comes equipped with hand controls or swivel seats? These can easily be added to some vehicles. Or do you need to have one of the best cars for carrying wheelchairs?
Consider how your specific needs can be taken into account before you hit the dealership. Don’t forget to think about your budget or whether your new car will make your insurance premiums go up.
Need ideas for which vehicles to shop for? Let’s take a look at some popular small cars for disabled drivers.
Hyundai Sonata
This is a mid-sized car that’s great if you want something compact with a little bit of extra room. It has excellent safety ratings and a good warranty, so you can purchase with no worries. Because of its low-ride height, it’s easy to access for people with mobility issues. Plus, it has supportive seats that make for a comfortable ride.
Another perk is its smart system, which makes it really simple to ask for directions or call for help in an emergency. The Sonata can also be modified with adaptive equipment pretty easily and is great for folks on a budget, with a sticker price of around $19,000.
Ford Mustang
Want an easy-to-drive car that’s a little more on the sporty side? You can still drive a sports car, even if it has to be adapted. The American-made Ford Mustang can be modified with carriers, hand controls, lifts, power-assisted seats, and steering devices.
While a tad more expensive (a 2021 model will run you back about $28,000), the Mustang’s high safety ratings and quality performance make it functional and fun at the same time. Ford also has a disability reimbursement program, so you can get some money back on your purchase (up to about $1,000).
Volkswagen Golf GTI
People looking for a hatchback option will do well with the Golf GTI. This low-slung sedan is one of the best choices for disabled individuals because the adjustable seats make it easy to get in and out.
The reason it works so well for disabled drivers and passengers is because the loading lip is at the perfect height, which makes the loading and unloading of people and wheelchairs much easier than in other vehicles. There’s also a spacious trunk for storage.
With strong reliability and driver satisfaction, it’s well worth the starting price of $28,000.
Nissan Versa
If you need a more affordable option for your car, consider the Nissan Versa. Its price tag is very affordable, and you’ll be getting a highly rated vehicle to cruise around in.
Disabled drivers most frequently praise the Versa’s visibility; the way the car is designed makes it super easy to see all around the vehicle, especially when backing out of a parking space. You can improve visibility even more by having a rear camera installed.
This compact and fun-to-drive car is very inexpensive, starting at $15,000 for a new 2021 model.
Kia Soul
The Soul stands out because of its unique boxy design. It’s sporty and reliable at the same time. The best part of the design is its higher height, which means there’s a lot of space to maneuver around. Low floors and larger doors make it even easier for you to get in and out of the car.
This compact car is affordable, too: around $18,000 for a brand-new vehicle.
Honda Civic
This model has been around for quite some time now, and it’s easy to see why it remains a favorite among drivers. It’s easily one of the most comfortable cars on the market. There’s lots of legroom in front, which can be really helpful for disabled drivers and passengers.
The fact that this compact car is automatic and equipped with an electric adjustable driver seat means it’s comfortable and easy to drive, too. It sells for around $20,000 and can also be modified with adaptive equipment.
Make sure to do your research online before you hit the dealership so that you have a list of the specific things you need or want to have in your vehicle. Shop around and take a test drive in any vehicles you’re considering so that you can compare their pros and cons. Once you’ve decided on a vehicle and made a purchase, don’t be afraid to get your car modified with whatever you need to make it a completely comfortable driving experience for you.
Featured image by Jose Carbajal on Unsplash