Some vehicles are marketed for senior citizens
Some vehicles are marketed for senior citizens
Is there such a thing as the perfect vehicle for an older driver -- someone who is either retired or approaching that stage in life?
Almost certainly not, but regular reader input on this topic prompts a closer look at the market.
Of course, when people retire, their vehicle choices tend to narrow a little because after all, even a generous "fixed income" encourages a reasonably thrifty view of auto-buying.
On the other hand, there are people who take retirement as an opportunity to buy "the car they always promised themselves" and go for a big Mercedes-Benz, BMW or Cadillac.
As far as vehicles go, many retired people opt for practicality over style and "flash." They like to have a vehicle that can be put to use now and again to ferry grandchildren, nieces and nephews and other close relatives around -- not to mention gear for more leisurely vacations.
In cases like this, a five-door hatchback such as a Volkswagen Rabbit, Nissan Versa, Toyota Matrix-Pontiac Vibe, Suzuki SX4, Chevrolet Malibu Max and HHR, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Ford Focus, Honda Fit, Hyundai Elantra, Toyota Yaris, Mazda3 or the nifty new 2008 Subaru Impreza might be just the right combination of economy, roominess and price.
On the other hand, there are more premium four-door hatchbacks around now than there used to be including the Mercedes-Benz B-Class, Audi A3 and Volvo C30. Sometimes, there's no better answer than a minivan or small SUV.
Manufacturers know that a huge market exists among older consumers -- especially those with money freed up by a family home sale when the kids finally flee the nest. Older people often buy cars that automakers target towards young buyers, prompting some observers to conclude that advertising agencies have been far too fixated on the youth market in recent years.
Source: Canada.com
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