Finding the perfect is already a challenge. But, if you lie low on the height scale, it’s a downright nightmare. As a 4’11” myself, I understand the struggle. From craning your neck to see the road ahead to stretching awkwardly to reach the GPS, it’s not really a smooth ride.
Thankfully, the auto industry is catching on. Many brands now offer compact and stylish vehicles tailored to short drivers. These cars have features like cushioned seat boosters, height-adjustable seats, and controls at eye level, making driving safe and comfortable.
Ready to find your perfect fit? Check out our roundup of the top six best cars for short people. Whether it’s improved visibility, user-friendly controls, or safety features designed with smaller stature in mind, these cars make driving feel less of a hassle and more of a joy.
Best Cars For Short Drivers
Here are our top picks for the best cars for those of us who don’t quite reach the top shelf. Let’s have a look.
1. Subaru Forester
What are the big problems for short drivers? Low visibility and high step-up height. The Subaru Forester takes care of both of them.
It is one of the best cars for visibility with a large glasshouse and sizable, low-positioned windows. Wide door openings, an optional side step, and a 10-way power adjustable driver seat make entry, exit, and driving a breeze for shorter people.
Controls and displays in the Forester are right where you need them, so you can drive comfortably without stretching or straining. Plus, it’s packed with advanced security features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist.
With comfortable seating, ample headroom, and tons of cargo space, it also makes a great option for family cars.
| Seats | 5 |
| Fuel Average (MPG) | 26 city/ 33 highway |
| Pricing | $31,115 – $41,390 |
2. Honda CR-V
Honda CR-V is one cute car that punches above its weight in style, comfort, and adjustability. The power-adjustable driver seat and the adjustable tailgate height not only make it a perfect ride for short drivers but also an excellent choice for women looking for an attractive yet practical SUV.
High ground clearance (up to 8.2 inches) ensures easy entry and exit- no climbing gear required! Plus, its expansive windows and minimal blind spots give you a commanding view of the road. The controls and infotainment system are also worth a shout-out; they are an absolute breeze to use.
Inside, the CR-V feels anything but compact. With 41 inches of headroom in the front, you’ll never feel boxed in. The spacious cabin is great for road trips, errand runs, or carpool duty.
| Seats | 5 |
| Fuel Average (MPG) | 28 city/ 34 highway |
| Pricing | $31, 450 |
3. Kia Soul
The Kia Soul nails it for short drivers with its elevated driver’s seat, 10-way adjustments, and tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. Plus, large, expansive windows give you a clear view of the surroundings so that you can drive with ease.
The SUV’s boxy charm and smart design make it a perfect pick for short drivers who want cute, small cars or a short girly car.
Its low-load floor and wide-opening liftgate simplify cargo loading, even if you’re vertically challenged. Plus, you get stellar fuel economy (29 city/35 highway) and budget-friendly pricing. Win-win!
Packed with advanced safety features, an easy-to-use infotainment system, and loads of personality, the Kia Soul proves you don’t need to compromise on comfort or style.
| Seats | 5 |
| Fuel Average (MPG) | 29 city / 35 highway |
| Pricing | $21,665 |
4. Volvo XC90
The Volvo XC90 proves that midsize SUVs don’t have to be intimidating for short drivers. Power-adjustable seats, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and memory settings mean you’ll always find the perfect driving position. Plus, contour leather seats with cushion extensions make long rides a first-class experience.
Voice controls handle climate and infotainment systems, so those “T-Rex arms” won’t be a problem anymore. Visibility is excellent, and getting in and out is surprisingly easy for an SUV of this size.
Beyond comfort, the XC90 nails safety, boasting top scores from NHTSA and IIHS. Add its polished luxury interior, spacious three-row seating, and fuel-efficient turbocharged engine, and you’ve got a perfect ride.
Stylish, sophisticated, and forgiving for shorter folks, the XC90 delivers premium comfort and unmatched safety in a package that’ll turn heads wherever you go.
| Seats | 7 |
| Fuel Average (MPG) | 21 city / 30 highway |
| Pricing | $58,695 |
5. Honda Fit
With Fit, Honda has nailed the recipe for a cute female car: sleek design, top-tier safety features, and a price point that won’t break the bank.
Compact yet spacious, the Honda Fit is a great ride for short drivers, offering excellent outward visibility and a just-right size. True to its name, it ‘fits’ everywhere whether it’s a busy street or a snug parking spot.
With a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and manual seat height adjustments, you can easily get comfortable behind the driving wheel. Plus, Honda’s LaneWatch system—a blind-spot camera that displays live video when you signal—adds an extra layer of safety, perfect for shorter girls who have trouble with larger blind spots.
| Seats | 5 |
| Fuel Average (MPG) | 33 city / 40 highway |
| Pricing | $17,185 |
6. BMWi3
Compact German cars for short folks like the BMWi3 are redefining driving ease and efficiency. It perfectly blends futuristic design, electric innovation, and everyday practicality.
Its high seat positioning gives you an SUV-like view of the road, boosting confidence in traffic and tight spaces. With adjustable seats and user-friendly controls, the i3 ensures you find your sweet spot without straining. Plus, large windows and minimal blind spots give maximum visibility.
Despite its compact footprint, the i3 surprises with roomy interiors, proving good things come in small packages. It’s a fully electric sedan, giving an eco-friendly, stylish, and comfortable ride for short girls and boys.
| Seats | 4 |
| Fuel Average (MPG) | 124 city / 102 highway (electric) |
| Pricing | $50,000 |
How To Choose The Best Car For Short People?
Finding the right car when you’re on the shorter side requires careful consideration. It’s not just about style; it’s about ensuring comfort, safety, and practicality. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:
Visibility:
Look for vehicles with large windows, minimal blind spots, and a higher seating position. Features like a rearview camera and parking sensors can be game-changers for better road awareness.
Accessibility:
A car with wide-opening doors, low step-in height, or optional side steps makes entering and exiting hassle-free. No need for awkward climbs or jumps!
Adjustability:
Prioritize adjustable seats, tilt-and-telescoping steering wheels, and pedals that can be customized for your height. These features ensure a driving position that’s both comfortable and ergonomic.
Comfort:
Opt for vehicles with cushioned seats and lumbar support to prevent strain during long drives. Ample legroom and headroom are also a must for a cozy experience.
Entry And Exit:
SUVs with lower ground clearance or sedans with well-designed door openings simplify getting in and out, especially for shorter drivers.
Safety:
Don’t compromise here. Advanced safety features like lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring make driving safer and more enjoyable.
With these criteria in mind, you can easily find good cars for short people.
Final Verdict
Nowadays, short height doesn’t restrict you from driving your heart out. There are tons of vehicles on the market that cater to people with smaller stature while delivering a fantastic driving experience.
With features like elevated views, adjustable seats, and within-reach controls, the best cars for short people let you embrace the road with confidence. So, happy driving, short kings and queens!