Retirees Who Drive SUVs Should Downsize To These 5 More Affordable Cars Instead
Written by
Paige Cerulli
Edited by
Zuri Anderson
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
There’s lots to love about SUVs. They’re spacious, give you a great vantage point on the road and tend to be a comfortable drive.
Â
But SUVs aren’t always the best choice for retirees, since they can be expensive to maintain, tend to have lower fuel economy than smaller vehicles and are more expensive to purchase or lease.
Retirees who drive SUVs can save money while still enjoying a quality, comfortable ride with these more affordable cars.
2026 Toyota Camry
- MRSP: $29,100 to $37,025
The 2026 Toyota Camry is a versatile midsize sedan that still provides space while outperforming SUVs in gas mileage. With its combined 53 mpg rating, the Camry can save retirees money on fuel, especially if they plan to take it on trips.
Edmunds gave the Camry a score of 8.3 out of 10, praising its high fuel economy and roomy interior. The 15.1-cubic-foot trunk is plenty spacious for storing groceries or suitcases. An all-wheel-drive trim is available for those looking for extra security on slick roads, and retirees transitioning from an SUV might appreciate that extra control while on the road.
2026 Honda Accord
- MSRP: $29,590 to $40,690
The 2026 Honda Accord earned a 10 out of 10 rating from Car and Driver, and is consistently included in the publication’s 10Best list. This midsize sedan features plenty of interior space, as well as in-cabin storage.
It’s available as a hybrid, ideal for retirees who want to maximize fuel savings and prioritize the environment, but the base LX trim costs under $30,000, making it an affordable choice. Fuel economy information for the 2026 Accord isn’t yet available, but the 2025 non-hybrid model featured a 32 mpg combined rating, making it a solid and economical choice for retirees.
2026 Honda Civic
- MSRP: $24,695 to $32,395
With an MSRP starting at $24,695, the 2026 Honda Civic is the most affordable vehicle on this list, but it doesn’t sacrifice quality for that low price point at all.
Edmunds gave the Civic a rating of 7.9 out of 10, highlighting its sharp handling, roomy seating, spacious cargo area, and easy-to-use technology. This small sedan is available in four trims, including a Sport Hybrid that gets a combined 49 mpg, making it an efficient and money-saving choice compared to most SUVs.
2026 Hyundai Sonata
- MSRP: $27,450 to $38,250
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata is a spacious sedan, offering a roomy interior and plenty of storage. Edmunds rated it 7.8 out of 10 and noted that it offers “tons of passenger space,” ideal for retirees who may want to travel or take their grandkids on outings.
The Sonata Hybrid offers an impressive 51 mpg combined fuel economy to save money at the pump, while the base trim model retails for $27,450, ideal for retirees looking for a vehicle at a more affordable price point. The Sonata offers 16 cubic feet of cargo room, plus the rear seat drops down and the interior has spaces to store smaller items. This sedan is a versatile choice for retirees looking to step down from an SUV.
2025 Kia Soul
- MSRP: $21,885
Retirees who really want the spaciousness of an SUV but who still want to downsize a bit might consider the 2025 Kia Soul.
According to Kelley Blue Book, this subcompact SUV features 62.1 cubic feet of cargo space, plus its folding rear seat is ideal for retirees who like to travel and need extra space for luggage. The vehicle seats five and has strong overall reviews. Plus, its combined 30 mpg rating makes it more fuel-efficient than some larger SUVs, while its low MSRP makes it an affordable option.
Kia discontinued the Soul’s production in 2025, so retirees should look for a new 2025 model now, or be prepared to buy used.
Editor’s note: Photos are for representational purposes only and might not reflect the exact vehicles listed in this article.
More From GOBankingRates
