Some retirees looking for a new vehicle might consider a compact car the right choice.
Buying a compact vehicle can be a smart money move since they usually cost less. These smaller cars also tend to get more miles per gallon and leave you with less wasted space.
So, which compact cars are right for retirees in 2024? Here are a few you might want to include in your search.
Get instant access to hundreds of discounts
Over 50? Join AARP today— because if you’re not a member you could be missing out on huge perks like discounts on travel, dining, and even prescriptions.
Get 25% off membership — just $15 for your first year with auto-renewal — and a free gift if you join today.
Kia Forte
/images/2023/12/13/kia-forte.jpg)
Check out the Kia Forte if you're looking for a stylish sedan that can also save you money on gas. The Forte gets an estimated 31 miles per gallon in the city and 41 miles per gallon on the highway.
And if you're trying to get ahead financially, the Forte is also one of the more affordable compact cars on the market right now, with an MSRP of $19,990.
Honda Civic Hatchback
/images/2023/12/13/honda-civic.jpg)
The 2024 Honda Civic Hatchback offers you a compact car with a hatchback that can make it easier to get things into and out of the back end: Say goodbye to having to lean down to get items from a typical trunk.
You can get a Civic Hatchback for a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $24,950.
Nissan Sentra
/images/2023/12/13/nissan-sentra.jpg)
The roomy Nissan Sentra gives you plenty of space for groceries or things you may need for new hobbies or volunteer projects.
It also can be easy on your wallet, as you get a robust 30 miles per gallon in the city and 40 miles per gallon on highways.
A Sentra at your local dealer has an MSRP of $20,890.
Resolve $10,000 or more of your debt
National Debt Relief could help you resolve your credit card debt with an affordable plan that works for you. Just tell them your situation, then find out your debt relief options.1 <p>Clients who are able to stay with the program and get all their debt settled realize approximate savings of 46% before fees, or 25% including our fees, over 12 to 48 months. All claims are based on enrolled debts. Not all debts are eligible for enrollment. Not all clients complete our program for various reasons, including their ability to save sufficient funds. Estimates based on prior results, which will vary based on specific circumstances. We do not guarantee that your debts will be lowered by a specific amount or percentage or that you will be debt-free within a specific period of time. We do not assume consumer debt, make monthly payments to creditors or provide tax, bankruptcy, accounting or legal advice or credit repair services. Not available in all states. Please contact a tax professional to discuss tax consequences of settlement. Please consult with a bankruptcy attorney for more information on bankruptcy. Depending on your state, we may be available to recommend a local tax professional and/or bankruptcy attorney. Read and understand all program materials prior to enrollment, including potential adverse impact on credit rating.</p>
Sign up for a free debt assessment here.
Volkswagen Jetta
/images/2023/12/13/volkswagen-jetta.jpg)
The Volkswagen Jetta's digital cockpit makes it easy to have everything you need at your fingertips while driving. You even get navigation tools on your digital dash right in front of you.
The Jetta gets 29 miles per gallon in the city and 42 miles on highways. It has an MSRP of $21,435.
Chevy Trailblazer
/images/2023/12/13/chevy-trailblazer.jpg)
The Chevy Trailblazer is a compact SUV that gives you the perks of an SUV in a smaller vehicle.
One of the best reasons for retirees to get an SUV is the higher ride height, allowing you to see better when driving. The Trailblazer has an MSRP of $23,100.
Trending Stories
Audi A3
/images/2023/12/13/audi-a3.jpg)
Check out the 2024 Audi A3 if you want a more luxurious compact car. The vehicle comes with plenty of safety features. In fact, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named last year's model as a Top Safety Pick Plus.
With an MSRP of $35,800, the A3 is slightly pricier than other compact cars. But it can still fit into the budget of many retirees.
Toyota Corolla
/images/2023/12/13/toyota-corolla.jpg)
The 2024 Toyota Corolla offers plenty of options for retirees, including 15 different colors and trims to choose from.
The Corolla is also compatible with Apple and Android phones, making it easy for you to safely drive hands-free with your phone connected to the car.
Pick up a Corolla with an MSRP of $22,050.
Volvo EX30
/images/2023/12/13/volvo-ex30.jpg)
Check out the Volvo EX30 if you want an all-electric car with the safety features Volvo is known for.
The Volvo EX30 can travel up to 275 miles per charge. You can get one for an MSRP of $34,950.
Alfa Romeo Giulia
/images/2023/12/13/alfa-romeo-giulia.jpg)
The luxury Alfa Romeo Giulia is sure to turn heads with its unique design. It also has plenty of safety features, including forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning.
At an MSRP of $43,340, the price is on the higher side. But it could still be a good option if you have room in your budget.
Earn cash back on everyday purchases with a debit card
Want to earn cash back on your everyday purchases without using a credit card? With the Discover® Cashback Debit account (member FDIC), you can earn 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month!2 <p>See website for details.</p>
Don’t leave money on the table — it only takes minutes to apply and it won’t impact your credit score.
Learn more about the Discover Cashback Checking account
Mazda CX-5
/images/2023/12/13/mazda-cx-5.jpg)
The Mazda CX-5 crossover SUV is a great option if you want something compact that allows you to see over traffic better. Or perhaps you'll like the higher cargo area where you don't have to bend down as much.
Pick up a CX-5 crossover SUV for an MSRP of $29,300.
Mercedes Benz C-Class
/images/2023/12/13/mercedes-c-class.jpg)
The compact Mercedes Benz C-Class sedan offers plenty of luxury in a small package. The sporty sedan has a large touchscreen and plenty of safety features to keep you protected.
Last year's model of this sedan earned a Top Safety Pick Plus rating from the IIHS.
However, the small C-Class does come with a big price tag compared to other compact cars. Expect to pay a MSRP of $46,950 for one.
Ford Bronco Sport
/images/2023/12/13/ford-bronco-sport.jpg)
The rugged Ford Bronco Sport is another option for a compact SUV. It could be a good choice if you plan to engage in outdoor activities after you retire and need a vehicle to help you with equipment for hiking or biking excursions.
The Bronco Sport gets 25 miles per gallon in the city and 29 miles per gallon on the highway. It sells for a MSRP of $29,795.
Whether you buy the Bronco Sport or another vehicle on this list, you can lower your car costs by shopping around for an affordable car insurance policy.
Bottom line
/images/2023/12/13/happy-senior-couple-driving-car.jpeg)
A compact car can be a great option if you're on a fixed budget and need more time to build up your savings.
Many of the cars on this list will also appeal to retirees because they offer safety features that keep you protected, good visibility, or large displays that can help you with navigation.
So, consider these cars the next time you head to the dealer lot.
- You could save up to $600 with some companies
- Compare dozens of providers in under 5 minutes
- Fast, free and easy way to shop for insurance
- Quickly find the perfect rate for you
Subscribe Today
Unlock the Best Banking Deals and Bonuses
From high-yield savings accounts to cashback checking and sign-up bonuses, we bring you the best banking offers to grow your money smarter.