For retirees who rely on their Social Security, purchasing a car is a delicate balancing act. The right choice needs to be reliable, safe and affordable, both upfront and over the long term.
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The 2026 model year brings some major redesigns and highly anticipated debuts. While not every model is necessarily affordable, car experts pointed out which models stand out as smart picks for retirees on a budget.
Chevrolet Equinox EV
- Starting MSRP: $35,100
Christopher Adam, director at Woodside Credit, is a big proponent of electric vehicles (EVs). “EVs are hard to beat when it comes to cost-effectiveness,” he explained. “For retirees who drive less than 50 miles a day, charging an EV overnight on a standard household outlet is often enough to stay fully powered.”
One he recommended is the Chevrolet Equinox EV, with a starting MSRP at around $30,000 for the base model. However, Adam noted that discounts can help push it to the upper $20,000 range.
“The interior feels familiar for GM drivers, and the range is excellent for the price point. While it skips some luxuries like a wireless phone charger and sunroof, it’s the go-to choice for retirees prioritizing affordability,” he explained.
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Honda HR-V
- Starting MSRP: $26,200
The Honda HR-V, which received a midcycle refresh for 2026, is a subcompact SUV for under $30,000. “The HR-V has excellent safety features, is available with AWD, and is easy to get into and out of,” Melanie Musson, auto industry expert with AutoInsurance.org, wrote in an email.
“The cost of ownership is low because the purchase price starts in the mid-$20,000 range, and there are very minimal maintenance costs,” Musson explained.
Kia EV9
- Starting MSRP: $54,900
For retirees who prefer a little more space and have more room in the budget, the Kia EV9 is an electric three-row SUV starting in the mid-$50,000 range. It’s also the repeat winner of the Kelley Blue Book (KBB) Best Buy Award for a three-row EV.
“This three-row SUV is spacious, thoughtfully designed and easy to enjoy on both short drives and longer trips,” Adam explained. “Edmunds.com logged a year with the EV9 without a single reported issue, showing just how reliable it can be.”
Chevrolet Trailblazer
- Starting MSRP: $23,200
For under $25,000, retirees can get this subcompact SUV with a solid fuel economy.
“Besides regular, expected maintenance, retirees should not have to worry about major repairs and maintenance for many years,” Musson wrote. “The seats are at a comfortable height that doesn’t require you to climb or sit down low, so it’s ideal for seniors.”
Nissan Leaf
- Starting MSRP: $29,990
The Nissan Leaf has been reimagined as a small EV SUV and will go on sale in the fall of 2025. The new model has an impressive range with two charge ports and high efficiency ratings, according to Kelley Blue Book. It also has a great reputation and over a decade of proven history, Adam noted.
“For retirees who want an established, low-hassle EV, it’s a safe bet,” he added.
Toyota RAV4
- Starting MSRP: $33,000 (estimate)
The 2026 model is the sixth generation of the Toyota RAV4, but it did receive a revamp. All models have a hybrid powertrain, giving drivers great fuel economy and more power than a standard gas engine alone. There’s also a new plug-in hybrid option with up to 50 miles of electric-only range, per Kelley Blue Book.
“The RAV4 is a dependable, safe workhorse. You can count on it for years of worry-free service,” Musson explained. It has an intuitive infotainment system, great for retirees who may struggle to keep up with technology, and offers safety features designed to keep drivers safe in the event of a crash, she added.
Editor’s note: All starting MSRP figures were sourced from the manufacturer’s website, with the exception of the Toyota RAV4 MSRP, which was sourced from Kelley Blue Book.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 6 Best 2026 Cars Retirees Living on Social Security Should Consider, According to Car Experts
