7 Affordable Cars Coming in 2025 for New Retirees

Financial stability, lifestyle requirements and long-term objectives are things to consider if you’re a newly retired driver looking to buy a car. However, most Americans hitting retirement age are as interested in vehicles that address accessibility, safety and comfort issues for those requiring assisted-driving features that will extend their driving years. 

For many years, older drivers have found comfort in devices like remote and pushbutton starters, heated seats, steering wheels, and large digital displays. However, modern cars come equipped with a number of high-tech standard features that can assist drivers whose abilities are deteriorating, like sophisticated navigation systems, self-parking capabilities, automated braking and a wide array of sensors, cameras and audio alerts.

Ending work often coincides with getting rid of a car that has been used specifically as a daily driver for years. According to Allen Nguyen, Marketing Manager at Metro Car Removal, a car that a retiree trades in has often “reached the end of its life.” It either has significant mechanical issues or is lacking in the modern safety features and the fuel efficiency of modern engines.

And there is a case for going for something relatively inexpensive, for many retired individuals are living on fixed incomes. Here are seven forthcoming 2025 models that are well-suited to seniors, all of which should retail for under $50,000.

Also check out used cars that will last throughout retirement.

• Estimated Starting MSRP: $29,000

For 2025, Toyota has made the Camry lineup fully hybrid, but that shouldn’t put a dent in its endearing popularity.

“The 2025 Toyota Camry is a great option for retirees because it’s comfortable, reliable, and safe,” said Tomer Ruderman, founder and owner of Car Keys Ottawa. “Its smooth ride and roomy interior make long drives relaxing, and its easy-to-use infotainment system helps you stay connected. Safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist add peace of mind while driving.

“The Camry is also known for its reliability, so you don’t have to worry much about maintenance. Plus, it gets good gas mileage, which is easy on the wallet. It also has other convenient features like smart key fob technology.”

• Estimated Starting MSRP: $24,250

Due to its reputation for dependability, practicality, safety and affordability, the Honda Accord has long been a great option for drivers of any age. However, the midsize sedan is consistently in high demand, with retirees not wanting to make the jump to SUV ownership. Made over in 2023, the 2025 Accord will offer few design changes, but its array of driving assistance systems — the Honda Sensing — is an attractive safety suite for senior drivers.  

The 2025 Accord should come standard with automatic emergency braking, lane keeping, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition and automatic high beams (with blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors available on higher trim levels), according to MotorTrend. The rear legroom and trunk room remain ample and are compared favorably to competitors like the Nissan Altima and Subaru Legacy.

• Estimated Starting MSRP: $40,445

Mazda SUVs have earned a reputation for luxurious interiors and sophisticated styling. Still, according to Alan Gelfand, owner of the independent automotive service center German Car Depot, the CX-70 is tailor-made for new retirees.

“The 2025 Mazda CX-70 has a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistance features,” said Gelfand. “The CX-70 is equipped with i-Activsense, which includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. These features are especially beneficial for seniors with certain eye conditions or mobility and reflex issues, enhancing their safety and confidence on the road.”

• Estimated Starting MSRP: $28,700

The Sonata is usually considered a smooth-riding, affordable family sedan, but according to Ruderman, “The 2025 Hyundai Sonata is another great car for retirees because of its comfort, ease of use, and features.

“The Sonata’s user-friendly infotainment system is intuitive, which is handy if you aren’t a tech expert. It has a smooth ride and fuel efficiency, making it an economical choice for those looking to enjoy their retirement without worrying too much about upkeep and gas costs.”

• Estimated Starting MSRP: $49,500

If you’re looking to be a little less frugal in retirement, the X3 is a capable and enjoyable all-rounder.

“The 2025 BMW X3 is an excellent choice for seniors due to its extended legroom, ensuring that they won’t have to contort themselves to fit into the vehicle,” said Gelfand. “It also features BMW’s Intelligent Personal Assistant, allowing the driver to control key vehicle functions through voice commands–a significant benefit for seniors who might have trouble multi-tasking while driving.

“Additionally, the X3 comes equipped with advanced safety features such as a surround-view camera, drive recorder, lane departure warning, and autonomous emergency braking, which provide peace of mind for senior drivers.”

• Estimated Starting MSRP: $25,100

Although Kelley Blue Book recommends the EX-L trim level for a slew of enhanced features, warnings and controls, the base LX comes with a host of features that seniors covet. While technically classified as a small station wagon, it is actually a modern crossover with an amazing 158-horsepower, 4-cylinder engine.

New retirees will appreciate the standard Honda Sensing features of the LX: high-beam assist, auto on-off LED headlights, LED taillights, automated climate control, a tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel and a 7-inch touchscreen. The EX-L adds blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, heated outboard mirrors with integrated turn signals, a 9-inch touchscreen, proximity key, front-rear park assist and more.

• Estimated Starting MSRP: $36,500

A common misconception about retirees is that they approach their non-work lives by downsizing, ushering in a routine of comfort and care. For many Americans, retirement is a chance to spend time doing enjoyable things, including driving on-road and off.

A 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick, Jeep’s Grand Cherokee might seem like an odd choice for seniors, but as Nguyen noted, “4x4s are quite popular due to their higher driver positions which make it easier to get in the car and see the road. They also provide greater safety due to their size.”

The Grand Cherokee comes with both rear-wheel drive and 4×4 available options.