11 Best Used Cars for Short Drivers

Finding the right car can be challenging for drivers of shorter stature. Comfort, safety, and ease of operation are crucial factors that can be affected by a driver's height. Many shorter drivers struggle with issues like reaching the pedals, seeing over the steering wheel, or having clear visibility of the road.

Fortunately, the automotive market offers several used car options that cater well to the needs of shorter drivers. These vehicles typically feature highly adjustable seats and steering wheels, good visibility, and ergonomically designed interiors that put controls within easy reach.

In this article, we'll explore the best used cars for short drivers. These selections consider factors such as seat adjustability, pedal placement, overall visibility, and ease of entry and exit. Whether you're looking for a compact city car or a more spacious option, this list aims to help shorter drivers find a comfortable and safe vehicle that suits their needs and budget.

Rank	Model	Type	Price Range (USD)
1	Mazda3	Compact Car	$15,000 - $20,000 (2018 model)
2	Kia Soul	Subcompact SUV	$12,000 - $18,000 (2018 model)
3	Scion xA	Subcompact Car	$5,000 - $8,000 (2006 model)
4	Mini Cooper	Subcompact Car	$10,000 - $15,000 (2017 model)
5	Volkswagen Passat	Midsize Sedan	$15,000 - $22,000 (2018 model)
6	Chevrolet Equinox	Compact SUV	$17,000 - $25,000 (2019 model)
7	Subaru Forester	Compact SUV	$18,000 - $25,000 (2019 model)
8	Honda Fit	Subcompact Hatchback	$14,000 - $18,000 (2018 model)
9	Toyota Prius	Hybrid Hatchback	$17,000 - $24,000 (2018 model)
10	Nissan Rogue	Compact SUV	$15,000 - $23,000 (2018 model)
11	Honda Accord	Midsize Sedan	$18,000 - $25,000 (2018 model)

11 Best Used Cars For Short Drivers

1. Mazda3

The Mazda3 stands out as an excellent choice for shorter drivers, offering a perfect blend of style, performance, and ergonomic design, making it one of the best cars for short drivers. This compact car has consistently received praise for its driver-focused interior, making it particularly suitable for those who need a more customizable driving position.

Additional Notable Features:

Available all-wheel drive (from 2019 model year)
Mazda Connect infotainment system with 8.8-inch display
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility (standard from 2019)
Advanced safety technologies such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance are featured.

Current Pricing:

Used Mazda3 models typically range in price based on the year, mileage, and trim level:

2015-2017 models: $10,000 to $15,000
2018-2020 models: $15,000 to $22,000
2021-2023 models: $20,000 to $28,000

2. Kia Soul

For shorter drivers, the Kia Soul stands out with its unique boxy shape, offering great visibility and a generous interior space. This subcompact crossover SUV combines practicality with a quirky style, making it both functional and fun to drive.

Additional Notable Features:

Available 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system (on higher trims)
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
Rearview camera with available 360-degree surround view monitor
Advanced driver assistance features like forward collision avoidance and lane-keeping assist

Current Pricing:

Used Kia Soul models vary in price based on the year, mileage, and trim level:

2014-2016 models: $8,000 to $12,000
2017-2019 models: $12,000 to $18,000
2020-2023 models: $16,000 to $25,000

3. Scion xA

The Scion xA was a subcompact hatchback produced by Toyota under its youth-oriented Scion brand from 2004 to 2006. Although it's an older model, the xA remains a good used car option for shorter drivers due to its compact size, smart interior design, and Toyota's reputation for reliability. The xA was designed to appeal to younger buyers with its unique styling and customization options.

Additional Notable Features:

The 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, known for fuel efficiency
Available automatic or manual transmission
Standard ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Air conditioning and power windows/locks as standard equipment
Pioneer audio system with customizable faceplate

Current Pricing:

As the Scion xA is an older model, pricing is generally quite affordable:

2004-2006 models: $3,000 to $7,000

Also Read: 13 Best Used Cars For Tall Drivers

4. Mini Cooper

The Mini Cooper is an iconic vehicle that offers a unique blend of style, performance, and functionality, making it an excellent choice for shorter drivers. Its compact size and customizable interior provide an engaging driving experience tailored to drivers of various heights.

Additional Notable Features:

BMW's iDrive infotainment system with a 6.5 or 8.8-inch touchscreen
Apple CarPlay compatibility (standard form 2018)
Available heads-up display
Advanced driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control and parking assist

Current Pricing:

Used Mini Cooper prices vary based on the year, model (hardtop, convertible, or Countryman), and trim level:

2014-2016 models: $10,000 to $18,000
2017-2019 models: $15,000 to $25,000
2020-2023 models: $20,000 to $35,000

5. Volkswagen Passat

The Volkswagen Passat is a midsize sedan that offers a spacious interior and adjustable features, making it an excellent choice for shorter drivers who need a larger car. Known for its German engineering, the Passat combines comfort, performance, and practicality.

Additional Notable Features:

Available 6.3-inch or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
Adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist
Rearview camera with available 360-degree view

Current Pricing:

Used Volkswagen Passat prices vary based on the year, mileage, and trim level:

2015-2017 models: $10,000 to $15,000
2018-2020 models: $15,000 to $22,000
2021-2022 models: $20,000 to $30,000

6. Chevrolet Equinox

The Chevrolet Equinox is a compact crossover SUV that has been a popular choice in Chevrolet's lineup since its introduction in 2004. The Equinox is designed to be a versatile family vehicle, offering a good balance between passenger comfort and cargo space. It's smaller than a full-size SUV but larger than a typical sedan, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments while still providing ample interior room. Most recent models offer a choice of fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines. The Equinox provides a comfortable interior with seating for five passengers.

Additional Notable Features:

Available all-wheel drive
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
The standard Chevy Safety Assist package includes a range of driver assistance features.
Spacious interior for its class
Fuel-efficient engine options

Current Pricing:

As of April 2024, the Chevrolet Equinox typically ranges from:

Base LS trim: Around $26,000 to $28,000
Top-tier Premier trim: Approximately $32,000 to $36,000

7. Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester is a popular compact SUV, well-known for its practicality, safety features, and all-weather capability. It's a top choice for short drivers due to its combination of height-adjustable seating, excellent visibility, and user-friendly design.

Additional Notable Features:

EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is standard on the majority of the latest models.
X-MODE for enhanced traction in challenging conditions
The Starlink system offers seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Available power liftgate
A lower center of gravity is achieved through the Boxer engine design.
Roof rails for easy cargo carrying

Current Pricing:

As of April 2024, the Subaru Forester typically ranges from:

Base model: Approximately $26,000 to $28,000
Top-tier Touring trim: Around $36,000 to $38,000

8. Honda Fit

The Honda Fit is a versatile and practical subcompact car that stands out for its spacious interior, excellent fuel efficiency, and user-friendly design. It's especially well-suited for short drivers due to its adjustable features and great visibility, ensuring comfortable driving.

Notable Features:

The "Magic Seat" system allows multiple cargo and passenger configurations
Available Honda Sensing suite of safety features on newer models
Touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration
Generous cargo space for its class when rear seats are folded
Available moonroof on higher trims

Current Pricing:

It's important to note that Honda discontinued the Fit in the US market after the 2020 model year. It's possible to find used or unsold new models still available. As of April 2024, pricing for used Honda Fits typically ranges from:

Recent model year (2019-2020): Approximately $18,000 to $22,000
Older models (2015-2018): Around $12,000 to $17,000

9. Toyota Prius

The Prius has evolved significantly over its multiple generations, with recent models offering improved performance and more modern styling compared to earlier versions. It continues to be a benchmark in the hybrid segment, though it faces increasing competition from other hybrid and electric vehicles.

The Toyota Prius is a pioneer in the hybrid vehicle market and remains a popular choice for fuel-efficient transportation. Here's an overview:

Notable Features:

Available all-wheel drive on newer models
Toyota Safety Sense provides a suite of driver assistance features.
Touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration
Multiple driving modes (EV, Eco, Power)
Regenerative braking system
Available solar roof panel on some trims (depending on model year)

Current Pricing:

As of April 2024, the Toyota Prius typically ranges from:

Base L Eco trim: Approximately $25,000 to $27,000
Top-tier Limited trim: Around $33,000 to $35,000

10. Nissan Rogue

The Rogue offers a good balance of features, comfort, and value in the competitive compact SUV segment. It's often praised for its comfortable interior, good visibility, and easy-to-use technology features, making it a popular choice for families and commuters alike.

Notable Features:

ProPILOT Assist (semi-autonomous driving system) available on higher trims
Nissan Safety Shield 360 includes a full range of driver assistance features.
"Divide-N-Hide" cargo system for flexible storage options
Available all-wheel drive
Comfortable "Zero Gravity" front seats
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility

Current Pricing:

As of April 2024, the Nissan Rogue typically ranges from:

Base S trim: Approximately $27,000 to $29,000
Top-tier Platinum trim: Around $37,000 to $39,000

11. Honda Accord

For years, the Accord has been a benchmark in the midsize sedan market, often going head-to-head with the Toyota Camry. It's known for offering a good balance of comfort, performance, and efficiency, making it a popular choice for a wide range of buyers, from families to commuters to driving enthusiasts.

Notable Features:

Honda Sensing suite of safety features (standard on most recent models)
Available turbocharged engines for improved performance
Hybrid powertrain option for enhanced fuel efficiency
Roomy trunk space for the class
User-friendly infotainment system with smartphone integration
Available premium features like leather seats and premium audio systems

Current Pricing:

As of April 2024, the Honda Accord typically ranges from:

Base LX trim: Approximately $27,000 to $29,000
Top-tier Touring trim: Around $38,000 to $40,000
Hybrid models: Starting from about $28,000 to $30,000, up to $40,000 for top trims

For short drivers, the key to choosing the right car lies in the adjustability of the seating and the ease of access to controls. All the vehicles listed above offer these features, making them ideal choices. Whether you prefer a compact car like the Mazda3 or a midsize SUV like the Subaru Forester, you can find a used car that meets your needs for comfort and convenience.

We are the top used car dealer in Anchorage that offer high quality used vehicles. Visit our inventory to find your dream car.

FAQs

1. What is the best vehicle for short drivers?

The Honda Fit and Subaru Forester are often recommended for short drivers due to their adjustable seating and excellent visibility.

2. Which car is best for a 5-feet height person?

The Kia Soul and Mazda3 are ideal for individuals around 5 feet tall, offering adjustable seats and easy access to controls, perfect for comfortable driving.