5 Cars Retirees Should Buy Before Prices Rise in 2026
Written by
G. Brian Davis
Edited by
Rebekah Evans
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A report by CarEdge found that 60% of 2026 car models feature a jump in price over 2025. And that says nothing of the risk that tariffs continue to trickle down to consumers and inflate prices.
So which cars should retirees consider buying now, before prices leap in 2026? Let’s find out below.
Also here is Grant Cardone’s car-buying rule for retirees.
Honda Passport
- Starting Price: $43,850
Topping CarEdge’s list, the 2026 Honda Passport features a 5% price jump compared to the 2025 model. It got a redesign, explaining the price difference.
“Retirees like the 2025 Passport because it accommodates comfortable seating and cargo space for luggage,” said Melanie Musson, auto expert with AutoInsurance.org. “It’s also a good height for getting in and out. Honda Sensing safety suite comes standard on all trim levels, making it one of the safest vehicles available.”
Mazda CX-50
- Starting Price: $31,995
Of course, most retirees don’t need a mid-size SUV. For those who still want the height of an SUV without the larger size and price, the Mazda CX-50 offers a well-reviewed compact alternative.
Ruth Calkins, general manager of car research platform FindByPlate, said she expects a price hike for the Mazda CX-50 next year. “It blends comfort together with convenience, while also maintaining a reliability that retirees appreciate.”
Genesis GV70
- Starting Price: $47,650
Looking for a luxury upgrade for a compact SUV? Kelley Blue Book (KBB) bestows a 4.8 star rating to the 2025 GV70 — their top-rated small luxury SUV. Meanwhile, the CarEdge report found that the 2026 model will have the third largest price jump of any car, as Hyundai’s luxury brand Genesis gains more name recognition.
“It’s comfortable, spacious and smooth,” Musson added. “The updates contributing to the price increase in 2026 are not related to the vehicle’s performance, but an updated screen and technology within the cabin.”
Cadillac CT5
- Starting Price: $49,090
Despite the reputation that Americans only want to drive SUVs, many retirees prefer the better fuel economy of a mid-size sedan. The Cadillac CT5 offers a luxury option and CarEdge ranks it fifth on the list of expected price hikes for 2026.
As a mid-size sedan, the CT5 is plenty comfortable for retirees to get in and out of and features plenty of seating and cargo room for the grandkids.
Hyundai Ioniq 5
- Starting Price: $44,100
Looking for an electric vehicle in your golden years? The Ioniq 5 has scored KBB’s Best Buy award among EVs for several years in a row now and for good cause.
You won’t get bored driving it, as most trims enjoy a potent 320-horsepower engine. The Ioniq 5 boasts a strong range, between 245-318 miles depending on the trim. And the battery charges from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes.
But the $7,500 EV tax credit expires on September 30, so act lightning fast if you want to score that discount on your 2025 tax return.
Editors note: Car prices were sourced from Kelley Blue Book.
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