2024 Senior SUV Is A True Head Turner (You’ll Love The Price)

Why SUVs Are Ideal for Seniors

An SUV, or Sport Utility Vehicle, is a vehicle category that combines features of road-going passenger cars with off-road vehicles, such as increased ground clearance and all-wheel drive. For seniors, SUVs provide a unique blend of advantages:

• Higher Seating Position: The elevated seating position of SUVs offers better visibility, making it easier for older drivers to see traffic and pedestrians. This reduces strain on the neck and back while providing a more commanding view of the road.
• Comfort and Space: SUVs typically offer more interior space, which is great for carrying passengers, groceries, or medical equipment. Their large doors and roomy cabins make getting in and out easier for those with mobility concerns.
• Safety Features: Modern SUVs come equipped with advanced safety technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring, which provide extra protection for senior drivers.
• All-Wheel Drive: Many SUVs come with all-wheel drive, offering improved traction in bad weather, making them ideal for seniors living in areas prone to snow or rain.

These features, combined with ease of use, make SUVs particularly appealing to older adults.

Popular SUVs Among Seniors in 2024

Here are five SUVs that have gained immense popularity among seniors due to their comfort, safety features, and performance:

1. Subaru Forester
   • Starting Price: $26,495
   • Performance: The Subaru Forester is known for its standard all-wheel drive and excellent fuel efficiency, averaging 26 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. It is also equipped with Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist technology, offering peace of mind to seniors behind the wheel.
   • Features: Spacious interiors, easy access, and standard safety features like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control make it a solid choice for seniors.
2. Hyundai Santa Fe
   • Starting Price: $28,750
   • Performance: The Santa Fe offers a smooth ride with a turbocharged engine option, providing both power and efficiency. It delivers up to 25 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway.
   • Features: Hyundai Santa Fe includes a suite of safety features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward-collision warning, which are especially beneficial for older drivers.
3. Hyundai Palisade
   • Starting Price: $35,900
   • Performance: This midsize SUV is powerful yet smooth, with a 3.8L V6 engine that offers 291 horsepower. It achieves up to 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway.
   • Features: The Hyundai Palisade is known for its upscale interior and advanced technology, including a large touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Its adaptive cruise control and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance make it particularly attractive for older drivers.
4. Buick Enclave
   • Starting Price: $44,800
   • Performance: The Enclave features a 3.6L V6 engine with 310 horsepower, delivering a smooth ride and decent fuel efficiency at 18 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway.
   • Features: This luxury SUV comes with premium materials, a quiet interior, and a host of safety features like lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and parking sensors, making it a comfortable and safe option for senior drivers.
5. Honda CR-V
   • Starting Price: $29,500
   • Performance: The CR-V offers a blend of performance and fuel economy, achieving 28 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. Its turbocharged engine provides plenty of power while maintaining efficiency.
   • Features: Equipped with Honda Sensing, the CR-V includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking, all of which provide additional layers of safety for seniors on the road.

Exploring Used and Unsold Cars

For those not interested in buying a brand-new vehicle, both used cars and unsold cars present excellent alternatives. Let’s explore these options:

Used Cars

Purchasing a used car can save significant money, and with the right strategy, you can find a nearly-new vehicle at a fraction of the original price. Seniors can benefit from the following steps:

• Compare Prices: Use websites like Kelley Blue Book, CarGurus, or Edmunds to compare prices across different sellers.
• Look for Discounts: Many dealerships offer certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles, which have undergone rigorous inspections and come with warranties.
• Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to negotiate on price, especially if the car has been on the lot for a while.

Here is a breakdown of current used prices for popular SUVs:

Unsold Cars

Unsold cars, or vehicles from the previous model year that haven’t been sold yet, are often available at a significant discount. These vehicles are brand new but may not have the latest features, making them a great option for seniors who want a new car without paying full price.

To find unsold cars:

• Search Locally: Visit local dealerships and inquire about previous model year inventory.
• Online Listings: Websites like Cars.com and AutoTrader often list unsold vehicles at discounted prices.
• Look for Clearance Sales: Dealerships frequently offer clearance sales at the end of the year to make room for new inventory.

Here are some current prices for unsold previous model year SUVs:

Considering Car Leasing in 2024

Leasing is another great option, especially for seniors who prefer driving new cars without the long-term commitment of ownership. Leasing can provide lower monthly payments and the opportunity to drive a new car every few years. Here are some potential leasing options for 2024:

• Subaru Forester: Estimated lease at $325/month
• Hyundai Santa Fe: Estimated lease at $375/month
• Hyundai Palisade: Estimated lease at $425/month
• Buick Enclave: Estimated lease at $485/month

Leasing allows seniors to drive a newer model for a lower monthly cost and without the worry of long-term maintenance.

SUV Preferences Among Seniors in 2023

Here is a breakdown of the most popular SUVs among seniors in 2023 across various regions in the U.S. along with the average transaction amounts:

How Seniors Can Secure Better Deals

When seniors look to purchase an SUV, there are specific steps they can take to ensure they get the most out of their investment:

1. Take Advantage of Local Incentives: Many states and local governments offer incentives or rebates to seniors purchasing vehicles, particularly eco-friendly ones like hybrids or electric vehicles. Research what’s available in your area.
2. Senior Discounts: Certain dealerships and manufacturers offer special programs or discounts for seniors. It’s always worth asking about these before making a purchase.
3. Consider Trade-In Options: Trading in an existing vehicle can significantly lower the overall cost of a new SUV. Make sure to get your trade-in appraised by multiple dealerships to get the best offer.
4. Medical Insurance Considerations: Seniors should also ensure that their financial situation, including medical insurance costs, allows for the monthly payments of a new or leased vehicle.

By combining these approaches, seniors can drive away in a new SUV without breaking their budget.

Q&A: Common Questions About SUVs for Seniors

Q: Why are SUVs considered good vehicles for seniors?
A: SUVs offer higher seating positions, which provide better visibility and reduce strain on the body. They also come with advanced safety features and provide plenty of interior space, making them a practical choice for older adults.

Q: Should seniors lease or buy an SUV?
A: It depends on the individual’s needs. Leasing offers lower monthly payments and the ability to drive a new vehicle every few years, while buying gives full ownership and the ability to sell the vehicle later on.

Q: Are there special financing options for seniors?
A: Yes, many credit unions and banks offer tailored financing options for seniors. Additionally, some dealerships provide senior discounts and promotional rates.

Conclusion

The 2024 SUV market provides a variety of options for seniors looking for comfortable, reliable, and feature-rich vehicles. Whether buying new, used, or opting for a lease, seniors can find deals that fit their financial and personal needs. By staying informed and utilizing available resources, seniors can secure a great vehicle without overspending.

References:

1. https://cars.usnews.com/
2. https://www.hyundaiusa.com/
3. https://www.edmunds.com/