Vertically challenged? Hate getting behind the wheel and having to crane your neck to see? There’s nothing wrong with you, but there is something wrong with your car. It might be time to trade it in and take advantage of the best used cars to buy if you’re shorter than average. Here’s a look at some of the available models on the market.
2014 Honda Accord: Sure, the Accord is a sedan, but it’s compact enough that you can easily see out even if you’re shorter than average. There’s also plenty of space inside for other passengers, and it manages to deliver 24/34 mpg as well (the four-cylinder engine).
2013 Kia Soul: The Soul is a funky little compact SUV that nevertheless offers a lot of perks for shorter than average drivers. Visibility is very good from all angles. It also offers 25/30 mpg. Of course, the style is also very distinctive.
2013 Mazda3: It’s really all about visibility with the 2013 Mazda3. The front windshield is large, and the sloped body construction means that it’s very easy to see out of for shorter drivers. It also manages to deliver respectable fuel economy, with 29/40 mpg.
2014 BMW 3-Series: If you’ve got the cash to spend, then the BMW 3-Series has what you need as a shorter driver. The seats are height adjustable, and the car offers very good visibility in the front, rear and to each side. It doesn’t hurt that it’s also a beautiful machine, and the gas mileage tops off at 24/36 mpg.
2014 Subaru Forester: The Forester is a great all around car, and it’s also a good choice for shorter drivers. All of the windows are large, and visibility is excellent. The interior is also roomy and the car manages to deliver 22/29 mpg (you can get 24/32 if you opt for the automatic transmission, however).
When shopping for cars better suited for drivers shorter than average, remember that what’s right for one driver isn’t right for others. Two people who stand 5’5” might have very different vantage points depending on the length of their torsos. The best option is always to compare several different models to find one that offers the height you need to see safely out of all the windows, while reaching the pedals without trouble.
