Affordability, safety, and comfort are some of the common factors we all look for when buying a car. However, finding a reliable, safe, easy to use and reasonably priced ride becomes increasingly important, the older we get.
Here’s why the ever popular SUV does a superb job at delivering these must-haves in the one vehicle, especially for those of us heading up in years.
Safety first
Safety is perhaps the most important consideration for a discerning senior. A health surveillance report by Age Concern NZ indicated that 1 in 3 of us aged 65 years and older have a fall every year. As we age, issues such as poor balance, weaker legs, and eyesight problems begin to appear. For that reason, finding a vehicle that is not only built for on-road safety, but also ease of use is essential for older drivers.
The SUV is the best vehicle for delivering that level of reassurance because of several reasons, including:
High Seating Position
SUVs are safer and easier to use because they have a taller body shape. The seats are higher up than more traditional hatchbacks and sedans providing the driver with better road visibility. When driving an SUV, you can comfortably and confidently see over other smaller cars and any obstacles further down the road. This can provide more time to react when other drivers pull out or stop in front and generally make it easier to reverse in parking lots or driveways.
The high seating position in an SUV is also crucial for seniors to get in and out of. Unlike driving a small low-slung car, you don’t need to bend so far down to get into the car or strain to get up and out of it. You just step into the vehicle without experiencing too much stress on your joints.
Enhanced Confidence
With an SUV, you have the option to choose an AWD or all-wheel drive over the standard 2WD. Similar to a four-wheel drive, an AWD gives you the benefit of more grip when driving on uneven surfaces or slippery roads due to rain and snow. They are lighter than a 4WD, so more economical and the suspension is more comfortable.
Having the ability to switch your car from 2WD to AWD when you need it, provides extra confidence and flexibility for when you are on a journey that throw up surprises, or simply navigating muddy or loose gravel driveways.
Increased Stability
SUVs generally have a heavier and broader build than small cars, making them more stable on the road. They are built to protect the occupants from side collisions and rollovers, which is important when driving on unknown roads, in unpredictable weather, or in other risky or rough road conditions.
Safety Features
There is no doubt as we age, our reaction times slow, which is why it is important to drive the safest car you can afford. Having an SUV like the Suzuki Vitara Hybrid, with the following safety features, may help you avoid, or at least minimise, the injury to you and your loved ones should an accident occur:
- 7 airbags, including front, knee, curtain and side
- Electronic stability control (ESP) & traction control
- ABS or anti-lock braking system
- Reverse camera & parking sensors
- AEB and forward collision warning system
- Blind spot monitor
- Lane departure warning and lane weaving alert
- Rear cross traffic alert
- Automatic headlamps
Reliable and simple technology
Learning and adapting to constantly changing technology can be challenging for the best of us. So, when looking for a car, convenience is key. Find one that is straightforward and hassle-free to operate.
When it comes to dependable and uncomplicated car technology, the Suzuki S-Cross is one of the most notable SUVs for seniors. Its 9-inch HD touchscreen infotainment display comes standard, providing you with a central hub that displays information about fuel economy, alerts, driving range, satellite navigation maps, camera views, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity.
On the steering wheel, there are safe-to-operate buttons for cruise control, speed limiter, answering phone calls and adjusting your music preferences. There are easy to use dials and switches for climate controlled air-conditioning, keyless start and heated controlled front seats. For real-time information as you drive, the full-colour multifunctional display on the dash conveys digital speed, running performance, navigation directions, and a digital clock.
By having simple, user-friendly, and reliable technological features, you can spend more time enjoying the drive, rather than worrying about touching the ‘wrong thing’.
Value for money
The retirement age in New Zealand is 65 years, making financial considerations a very important component when choosing the right SUV. Knowing what to look for in an affordable and reliable car can help you save money, so start by finding a well-established brand in the New Zealand market and researching their SUV selection. Next, review your budget against the initial cost, and include ongoing running costs, such as car insurance, maintenance, and fuel economy.
The Suzuki Ignis is a real value-for-money compact SUV that looks unique, has all the features and utility space you need, and most importantly, a low cost of ownership. It’s very reasonable price tag and impressive fuel-efficiency figures of 4.7L-4.9L/100 km, make it better than many other larger SUVs.
Once you have narrowed down your choice to two or three, make sure you take them each for a test drive on the roads you normally travel on. That way you will know which one is the best fit for you.
As a senior or retiree, buying the perfect SUV requires a slightly different approach compared to a younger driver at a different life stage. Safety, comfort, reliability, and value for money are key to ensuring peace of mind every time you get in behind the wheel, no matter what adventures you get up to.
Are you looking for a senior-friendly SUV? Download the Guide to Buying a New Car and get a new ride that ticks all the boxes!
