If your retirement dream involves endless miles on the odometer across America’s open roads, you have to get the right car for the job. It has to be dependable, capable, comfortable and, if you’re like most retirees, affordable — both to buy and to own.
The following vehicles are relatively budget-friendly and built with safety, reliability and longevity in mind. Is your post-career life going to be one long road trip? These are the cars for you.
Starting at $28,675, the RAV4 is one of the more affordable SUVs on the market — and it might just be the perfect set of wheels for retirees looking to hit the road.
“Known for its reliability and spacious interior, the Toyota RAV4 is perfect for long trips,” said auto industry expert Rob Dillan, founder of electric vehicle and charging platform EVhype .
“It offers impressive fuel efficiency at up to 35 MPG on the highway and comes with advanced safety features like Toyota Safety Sense, ensuring a comfortable and secure ride.”
If you’re looking for a used model, CoPilot for Car Shopping says anything from 2013 on is a safe bet, although 2019 stands out as an exemplary year in terms of reliability. Kelley Blue Book (KBB) says the fair market value for the 2019 base model is $20,465.
Subaru Outback
With a starting MSRP of $28,895, the Subaru Outback is comparably priced with the RAV4, and it’s known as a capable, comfortable and dependable partner on road trips both on the highway and off.
“Ideal for adventure-loving retirees, the Subaru Outback features standard all-wheel drive for stability in various conditions,” said Dillan. “Its durability, ample cargo space and EyeSight Driver Assist Technology make it a dependable and safe choice for extended travels.”
The Outback has a bit more cargo space and passenger room than the RAV4, but if you don’t need it, consider the Subaru Crosstrek, a downsized but still mighty and reliable SUV that starts at $25,195.
Honda is already selling the 2025 CR-V, and it has a starting MSRP of just over $30,000, which might be out of reach for some retirees. If so, consider a used CR-V.
Like the RAV4, CoPilot for Car Shopping recommends the 2019 model, and KBB says you should be able to get one for just over $19,000 — either way, you’ll have a car you can count on.
According to Dillon, “the Honda CR-V offers a blend of reliability, comfort and utility. With excellent fuel economy — up to 34 MPG highway — a spacious interior and Honda Sensing safety features, it’s perfect for cross-country road trips.”
Toyota Tacoma
For some retirees, the perfect car might actually be a truck.
“The Toyota Tacoma would be an excellent vehicle for boomers to explore the country in,” said Ryan Horton, co-founder of Truck Brigade . “This is in part because of its renowned reliability, capability and price, which is especially true for used second and third-generation models (2005-2023).”
Horton continued, saying, “Tacomas are known for being reliable, with many lasting more than 300,000 miles without any major issues. They also often come in four-wheel drive, allowing you to leave the city streets behind and opening up the opportunity to reach more picturesque areas off the beaten path.
“Lastly, the Tacoma’s bed allows you to store necessary gear with optional tonneau covers to keep your gear secure and safe from the elements.”
The Tacoma starts at $31,500, but if that’s too steep, CoPilot for Car Shopping says 2018 was a good model year — and KBB says the base model should run you less than $20,000.
Honda Odyssey
With a starting MSRP of $38,240, the Honda Odyssey is the most expensive car on this list — but if bigger is better for your retirement plans, it could be worth every penny.
Auto industry expert with AutoInsurance.org , Melanie Musson said, “Usually, you think of a minivan as the perfect family car, but it’s also a great option for retirees because it has the room of an SUV but rides like a car.
“It’s comfortable, rides smoothly and has room for your desired gear. You can also fold down the back seats and load e-bikes into the space.”
CoPilot for Car Shopping says 2019 was an excellent year for the Odyssey, as well. If a new minivan is beyond your budget, you can get a used one for under $21,000.
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