The 9 Easiest Cars to Drive
These models top our ratings in how effortless they are to use in your everyday life. Think comfy seats, straightforward controls, and good visibility.
Nancy Williams, a retired public school administrative assistant, says she has always considered her vehicle as “simply a way to get me from here to there.” That is, until she leased her first Subaru Forester, with its wide windows, comfortable seats, and simple controls. “It’s the perfect size,” says the 74-year-old, who lives in Lexington, Ky. “The GPS screen is large and easy to follow, and you can pack a couple of kids in there.”
With its unique body design, the Forester is small enough to navigate crowded parking lots but big enough to hold large plants from the nearby Lowe’s, Williams says. “It feels heavy when you drive. It’s not a dinky little car.”
What Makes a Vehicle Hassle-Free
More reliable: Nothing causes stress like a car that’s constantly in the shop for repairs.
Easy access: Vehicles with hip-height seats and wide door openings are less difficult to enter and exit.
Comfortable seats: Supportive padding, multiple adjustments, and adequate legroom provide the most pleasant seating.
Nice driver positioning: An ergonomic driving position reduces fatigue over time, making the journey more enjoyable.
Quick-read gauges: The speedometer, fuel gauge, and other information displays are simple to read and understand.
Uncomplicated controls: Physical knobs and buttons tend to make more sense than fussy digital menus.
Good visibility: Unobstructed outward views make a car easier to drive. Large windows and thin roof pillars help.
Quiet interior: Excessive tire and wind noise can be irritating. Adequate soundproofing allows greater tranquility.
Smooth ride: The best suspension systems soak up bumps nicely and keep occupant-jostling to a minimum.
Small Sedan: Volkswagen Jetta
Midsized Sedan: Subaru Legacy
Midsized Sedan: Toyota Camry Hybrid
Midsized Sedan: Kia K5
Small SUV: Subaru Forester
Small SUV: Toyota RAV4 Prime
Midsized 2-Row SUV: Subaru Outback
Midsized 3-Row SUV: Chevrolet Traverse
Minivan: Honda Odyssey
Editor’s Note: This article also appeared in the September 2022 issue of Consumer Reports magazine.
