Best Cars for Short People

• Half of the population of the U.S. is below the nation’s average height, leading to a demand for cars designed for shorter drivers.
• Vehicles with key features such as adjustable seats, low step-ins, and technology like blind spot warning systems enhance the driving experience for shorter drivers.  
• 10 best cars for shorter drivers include cars from Audi, Chevrolet, GMC, Nissan, and more spanning various models that offer comfort, safety, and tech features. 
• FINN offers an alternative to leasing or buying vehicles suitable for shorter drivers, including additional benefits like insurance and maintenance included in the monthly fee.

The U.S. is the 40th tallest nation on Earth but it may surprise you to know that around half the population is below the average height. This means that a lot of people are looking for cars to drive that are not built for giants and cater specifically to shorter body dimensions.

Fortunately, car manufacturers know this and there are plenty of options available for shorter drivers from sedans and SUVs to coupes and hatchbacks. A five-foot person can easily drive an SUV if a few extra safety and comfort features are present.

We consider the main features you should be on the lookout for—and provide a list of the 10 best cars for shorter drivers, saving you from having to get the tape measure out at the dealership or do too much research online before you create your shortlist. The following 10 models are covered:

The average height in the United States is 5 feet 4 inches (162.56 centimeters) for women and 5 feet 9 inches (175.26 centimeters) for men. If you’re below these average heights, you’re far from alone. Plenty of American drivers do not fit the “standard” build and manufacturers have developed more options to choose from.

You don’t simply have to buy a smaller or more compact vehicle—though that’s often a good option. As a petite driver, you may be able to benefit from the use of technology that manufacturers are increasingly incorporating to make the driving experience more comfortable and safer in many different types of vehicles.

Before we get into the specific models that shorter drivers might consider, let’s take a quick look at the many types of features that can enhance the driving experience for shorter drivers:

• A low step-in - A running board or low step-in can ease the process of getting in and out of the vehicle.

• Grab handles - If the vehicle has handles on the A-pillars or inside the top of the door opening, this can also ease entry and exit from the vehicle.

• Vehicle lowering - Some cars have automatic air suspensions that automatically lower or raise the car for easier access.

• Adjustable seats - Seats must go high enough to make it easy for full visibility out of the windscreen and to drive comfortably and safely (minimizing the blind spot). Ideally, this means adjustable seat height, distance from the steering wheel and seat-back recline. Some models even offer a memory seat function, where the seat adjusts automatically to multiple drivers’ preferences.

• Large windscreen and windows - This helps you minimize the blind spots, which can be greater for shorter drivers.

• Head-up display - This keeps everything in view without having to strain.

• Tilt and telescoping steering wheel - This enables you to adjust the steering wheel according to your height and reach. 

• Power-adjustable pedals - Shorter people sometimes have trouble reaching the pedals, which can be a huge annoyance, as well as compromising safety. Power-adjustable pedals are not easy to find but are a great problem solver for shorter drivers. The only alternative is to buy pedal extenders.

• Steering wheel-mounted controls - If the audio, smartphone, air con, wipers and cruise-control systems are mounted on the steering wheel, it saves having to stretch to reach the dashboard—another important safety consideration for shorter people.

• Automated wipers and headlights - Rain-sensing wipers and automatic on/off headlights means there is less to think about and fewer controls to reach for when driving.

• A smart rearview mirror - A mirror that accesses a rear camera to help driving at night or in bad weather is a great safety accessory for short people.

• Blind spot warning system - This detects vehicles in the blind spot while driving and notifies the driver: great for all drivers, not just shorter ones.

• Power liftgate/trunk lid - Closing the rear liftgate or trunk lid is much easier for shorter people if you can simply press a button or go hands-free without stretching or over-reaching.

• Adjustable beltline - If the beltline is too high, shorter drivers will feel like they’re sitting lower in the car; an adjustable beltline helps address this potential issue.

For shorter drivers, safety and comfort can be more challenging. However, manufacturers are increasingly making it easier to find good cars for short people. Smart features like adjustable seats, low step-ins, grab handles, steering-wheel-mounted controls, and greater automation in general help to alleviate many of the traditional risks of driving a car that’s too big for you.

Here’s a brief rundown of the best 10 cars we’ve found for shorter drivers: