As we get older, the way we think about driving tends to shift (pun intended). Comfort matters more, and safety features are no longer considered optional upgrades. For seniors, easy entry, clear visibility and intuitive technology can make the difference between a stressful drive and a confident one.
The good news? Today’s automakers are designing vehicles that check all those boxes and more. The better news? The Carrington at Lincolnwood supports an active lifestyle for drivers and non-drivers alike, with amenities and programming for residents who have a car and those who no longer drive but still want to get around town safely and independently!
In this blog, we’ll highlight some of the best cars for seniors—models that combine reliability, comfort and smart safety features to help drivers stay independent and enjoy the road ahead. Along the way, we’ll explore how each pick fits Lincolnwood life, from quick hops to the North Shore to weekend drives to the western suburbs. (If you want AARP’s “what to look for” checklist as a baseline, start here: (AARP’s tips for older drivers shopping for a vehicle.)
Pricing notes: Prices below reflect the Starting MSRP for a specific trim (usually the base trim), current to January 2026, where available. Starting MSRPs can vary with destination fees, taxes, title/registration, dealer fees and optional packages, so always confirm out-the-door pricing with a local dealer.
2025 Mazda CX-5 (2.5 S)
Starting MSRP (2.5 S): $28,570 | U.S. News Overall Score: 9.3/10
More on the 2025 Mazda CX-5 (2.5 S)
Why it works for Lincolnwood: upright seating for easy entry, confident all-weather traction and a cabin that looks and feels premium without complexity. The CX-5 emphasizes clear physical controls and supportive seats, which align well with AARP’s ease-of-use priorities. Expect strong standard safety tech and a composed ride over Chicago’s patched pavement. (PR Newswire)
2025 Honda Accord (LX)
Starting MSRP (LX): $28,295 | U.S. News Overall Score: 9.3/10
More on the 2025 Honda Accord (LX)
Why it works here: if you prefer a sedan to an SUV, the Accord remains a benchmark for visibility and comfort. Door openings are generous; the trunk is huge for Costco runs on Touhy and hybrid trims deliver excellent mileage in stop-and-go traffic. Note: Honda issued a recent software recall affecting 2023–2025 Accord Hybrids. Dealers have an update available, so ask for confirmation during your test drive. (Honda News)
2025 Buick Encore GX (Preferred)
Starting MSRP (Preferred): $27,335 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.6/10
More on the 2025 Buick Encore GX
A small, quiet SUV that is easy to park near village shops and doctor offices. The tall seating position and gentle ride suit daily errands, while the compact size keeps parallel parking stress low. The 2025 Encore models continue with minor updates and approachable pricing. Check trims, since the upscale Avenir is priced higher. (Kbb.com)
2024 Ford Maverick (XL)
Starting MSRP (XL): $25,515 | U.S. News Overall Score: 9.0/10
More on the 2024 Ford Maverick
Think of this as a city-friendly pickup truck. Step-in height is knee-friendly, the bed makes plant runs or charity drop-offs easy, and the hybrid powertrain shines in urban traffic. It drives more like a car than a truck, which many older drivers prefer, and it has earned strong reviews for value and practicality. (Car and Driver)
2025 Genesis GV70 (2.5T)
Starting MSRP (2.5T): $47,650 | U.S. News Overall Score: 9.3/10
More on the 2025 Genesis GV70
Luxury comfort without fuss. The GV70’s quiet cabin and supportive seats reduce fatigue on I-94 or I-294, while clear screens and knobs keep controls intuitive. If you want a calmer, plush experience for frequent suburban loops around Northbrook, Glenview and Oak Brook, this is an excellent fit. (Car and Driver)
2025 Toyota Camry (LE, hybrid-only lineup)
Starting MSRP (LE): $28,400 | U.S. News Overall Score: 9.5/10
More on the 2025 Toyota Camry
The redesigned 2025 Camry goes hybrid-only, delivering smooth, quiet acceleration and excellent fuel economy. Toyota’s driver-assist suite is standard, and visibility remains a strong point for seniors who value confidence in lane changes and left turns. (Toyota Pressroom)
How does The Carrington support the independence of drivers and non-drivers?
As we continue to note car models that might appeal to seniors in the market for new wheels, let’s take a look at how The Carrington at Lincolnwood supports the independence of seniors who are driving and those who are not.
At The Carrington, independence doesn’t come with an expiration date—it simply evolves. For residents who still enjoy the freedom of driving, the community makes it easy and comfortable to stay on the road. Three climate-controlled parking garages protect vehicles from Chicago’s unpredictable weather, whether that means winter snow, summer heat or spring rain. With elevators conveniently connecting the garages to residential floors, residents can move seamlessly from car to home without braving the elements. It’s a thoughtful amenity that preserves both convenience and peace of mind.
At the same time, The Carrington recognizes that driving isn’t the right choice for everyone — and it doesn’t have to be. Residents who prefer to leave the keys behind have access to reliable, scheduled transportation seven days a week. Whether it’s a medical appointment, a grocery run or a social outing with friends, community transportation ensures residents can maintain active, engaged lifestyles without the stress of navigating traffic or parking.
By supporting both drivers and non-drivers alike, The Carrington at Lincolnwood removes barriers and expands possibilities. Residents can hold onto the independence they value, knowing that when their needs change, the community is already equipped to support them comfortably, safely and seamlessly.
2025 Kia Soul (LX)
Starting MSRP (LX): $20,490 | U.S. News Overall Score: 9.2/10
More on the 2025 Kia Soul
Boxy shape equals big doors, great sightlines and simple parking. The Soul’s low price and tall seating make it a practical choice if you like to spend your time in the city or near-north suburbs. It is easy to step into, easy to see out of and easy on the budget. (Kia America)
2026 Lexus RX Hybrid (RX 350h)
Starting MSRP (RX 350h): $51,175 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.3/10
More on the 2026 Lexus RX Hybrid
If serenity tops your list, the RX Hybrid’s ride and cabin isolation are hard to beat. The hybrid system reduces fuel stops, the seats are plush and the safety tech is comprehensive. It is a fine match for frequent city visits or longer day trips with grandchildren. (Lexus)
2025 Hyundai Sonata (SE)
Starting MSRP (SE): $26,650 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.7/10
More on the 2025 Hyundai Sonata
A roomy sedan with clear controls and generous tech for the price. The Sonata’s calm highway manners and supportive seats make it a comfortable alternative to an SUV if you prefer a lower step-in height. (Hyundai Newsroom)
2026 Honda Civic (LX)
Starting MSRP (LX): $24,695 | U.S. News Overall Score: 9.2/10
More on the 2026 Honda Civic
Right sized for city errands and tight parking, yet stable on the expressway. The Civic’s visibility, intuitive tech and available hybrid engine make it a strong choice for seniors who want small-car agility with big-car polish. (Honda Automobiles)
2025 Subaru Outback (Base)
Starting MSRP (Base): $29,995 | U.S. News Overall Score: 9.0/10
More on the 2025 Subaru Outback
For all-weather confidence and famously easy entry, the Outback is a standout. Standard all-wheel drive, excellent sightlines and wide door openings help on stiff, chilly mornings, while the ride is settled over cracked winter pavement. AARP-friendly features like EyeSight driver assist technology are standard. (Subaru)
2025 Toyota RAV4 (LE)
Starting MSRP (LE): $29,800 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.7/10
More on the 2025 Toyota RAV4 (LE)
Still a sensible, comfortable pick offering a friendly step-in height and straightforward controls. Hybrids add excellent miles per gallon if most of your miles are on city streets. The size is right for parking garages and tight curbs.
Two bonus 2026 additions to consider
2026 Mazda CX-5 (redesigned)
Mazda has rolled out a redesign that adds size, tech and standard all-wheel drive. Early reports show higher base pricing and the turbo option dropped, but the formula still centers on supportive seats and clean controls that senior drivers appreciate. Worth a test drive if you want something new for 2026. (Car and Driver)
2026 Buick Encore GX
Buick’s subcompact SUV continues as a quiet, easy-to-park option with pricing that remains approachable. If you value a tall seating position and simple tech in a small footprint, keep it on your list as you shop. (Car and Driver)
How to test-drive like a pro around Lincolnwood
- Practice entry and exit from both front seats several times. Check knee and hip comfort and door-opening size.
- Confirm visibility by using mirrors and the rear camera to judge pedestrians and bikes on busy curbs off Lincoln Avenue.
- Try the safety tech in a quiet lot first: adaptive cruise, lane keeping, blind-spot alerts. Ask the salesperson to demonstrate and then repeat it yourself.
- Simulate your routes: a short loop on the Edens, a few stop-and-go lights, a tight parallel park. The car should feel calm and predictable, not twitchy or vague.
- Check for software updates, especially on hybrid models. If a recall or update exists, confirm the car you drive has the fix applied (for example, the 2023–2025 Accord Hybrid software update). (AP News)
Which body style fits life at The Carrington at Lincolnwood?
- Compact SUVs (CX-5, RAV4, Encore GX, Outback, RX Hybrid, GV70): easier step-in height, better visibility for lane changes on Cicero Avenue or Skokie Boulevard, more cargo flexibility for groceries or walkers and wheelchairs
- Sedans (Accord, Camry, Sonata, Civic): lower step-in, excellent efficiency, quiet ride and easier rooflines for garage clearance
- City-friendly pickup (Maverick): seating like a crossover with the utility of a small bed for plants, donations or hobby gear
Quick shopping map for Chicagoland seniors
- Urban errands: Civic, Soul, Encore GX, RAV4—small footprints and great sightlines
- Comfort commuters: Camry, Accord, Sonata, RX Hybrid, GV70—quiet cabins and plush seats for expressway runs
- All-weather travelers: Outback, CX-5—standard or available all-wheel drive with calm highway manners
- Budget versatility: Maverick—easy entry, open bed, hybrid efficiency
Bottom line for seniors
AARP’s perspective is simple: choose a car that makes your daily driving easier. That means clear visibility, intuitive controls, comfortable seats and modern safety features. For Lincolnwood drivers, it also means smart sizing for parallel parking, stable ride quality for winter-worn pavement and features that reduce fatigue on expressway hops to the suburbs.
Start your search with two or three of the models above that match your priorities and budget. Do back-to-back test drives on the routes you typically drive, ask about current software updates, and bring a friend to check step-in comfort and screen legibility. The right car will help you feel calm, provide clear sightlines and build your confidence, starting from the first mile.
The Carrington at Lincolnwood offers the perfect blend of independence and connection, with a wide range of amenities, activities and services designed to support seniors who drive and those who do not. Ready to explore more? Visit our Contact Us page today.
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