Best Wheelchair-Friendly SUVs [Updated for 2024]
Michael Collado is a car buying expert and has been a professional automotive writer since 2009. He’s written about dealership sales, vehicle reviews and comparisons, and service and maintenance for over 100 national automotive dealerships. Previously, Collado was a copywriter at the ad agency TBWA/Chiat/Day where he worked on brand campaigns for Nissan, ABC Television, Sony PlayStation, and Energizer. His recognition in the ad industry includes awards from Communication Arts and The Clios.
Collado has a Bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida, with a major in Psychology and a minor in Marketing.
From spacious interiors to adaptive equipment, discover the top SUVs that can accommodate a wheelchair and keep your loved ones safe and comfortable on the road.
The SUV segment offers a range of models with ample space, high ground clearance, and versatile features that can make it easier to transport passengers with disabilities.
To help find the perfect SUV, we created this handy guide to exploring the key considerations when choosing an SUV that accommodates those with accessibility needs.
- Check out our top picks for the best overall vehicles for wheelchair users >>
Table of Contents
Top SUVs for Wheelchair Accessibility
The following are the top SUVs that meet the above criteria and offer exceptional wheelchair accessibility:
| SUV | Top Pro | Top Con |
| Honda Pilot | ||
| Dodge Durango | ||
| Chevy Traverse | ||
| Subaru Ascent | ||
| Hyundai Palisade |
1. Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot is a popular midsize SUV that offers ample space and versatility.
The second row of seats can be configured to provide easy access to the third row, making it simple for a passenger with a wheelchair to enter and exit.
The Pilot also offers a power liftgate and optional side steps to facilitate loading and unloading. Other key features include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and a rearview camera.
What's New for 2024? No major changes. However, the starting price starts at $38,465, which is $790 more than the 2023 model.
Pros
- Spacious interior with plenty of headroom and legroom, making it easy to accommodate a wheelchair or other mobility devices.
- Available power liftgate and power-folding third-row seats make it easy to load and unload cargo and passengers.
- Standard Honda Sensing safety features, including adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, provide additional safety for drivers with disabilities.
Cons
- Limited availability of mobility accessories and modifications compared to some other vehicles on the market.
- Relatively low ground clearance, which could make it difficult to navigate rough terrain or obstacles.
- Some users may find the ride to be somewhat stiff or bumpy compared to other SUVs.
Current Honda Pilot Deals & Incentives
| Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Honda | Pilot | ||||
| 2024 | Honda | Pilot | 3.90% | $409/month for 36 months, $4,699 due at signing | 4/30/24 |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Honda deals and average prices paid.
2. Dodge Durango
The Dodge Durango is a full-size SUV that offers plenty of space and power.
The Durango can be outfitted with a lift or ramp system to accommodate a passenger with a wheelchair, and the rear seats can be folded down to create even more room.
The Durango also offers a host of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning.
What's New in 2024? The Citadel trim joins the R/T in offering the Tow N Go package. The Tow N Go Package adds styling that is similar to what you will find in the SRT trim level. Also, blind spot monitoring has been added throughout the lineup.
Pros
- Available all-wheel drive provides better handling and control in all weather conditions.
- Available towing package makes it easy to transport additional mobility devices or equipment.
- Spacious interior with ample headroom and legroom for passengers with disabilities.
Cons
- Limited availability of mobility accessories and modifications compared to some other vehicles on the market.
- Relatively low fuel economy compared to some competitors.
- Third-row seating can be cramped for adults, which may make it difficult to accommodate additional passengers or equipment.
Current Dodge Durango Deals & Incentives
| Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Dodge | Durango | $2,930 | 6.90% | 4/30/24 | |
| 2024 | Dodge | Durango | $2,930 |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Dodge deals and average prices paid.
3. Chevrolet Traverse
The Chevrolet Traverse is a spacious midsize SUV that can be outfitted with a lift or ramp system to accommodate a passenger with a wheelchair.
The Traverse offers plenty of room for both passengers and cargo, making it an ideal choice for families.
Other notable features include a rearview camera, rear-seat entertainment system, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
What's New in 2024? The Chevy Traverse is all-new for the 2024 model year. Highlights of the all-new model include a standard 17.7-inch diagonal infotainment display. Max horsepower is rated at 328. All new trim levels for 2024 include the performance-focused Z71 and RS variants.
Pros
- Spacious interior and cargo area
- Available all-wheel drive for improved handling
- User-friendly infotainment system
Cons
- No hybrid or electric powertrain options
- Third-row seating can be cramped for adults
- Some optional features can quickly increase the price
Current Chevrolet Traverse Deals & Incentives
| Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Chevrolet | Traverse | ||||
| 2023 | Chevrolet | Traverse | $750 | 1.90% | $369/month for 36 months, $4,449 due at signing | 4/30/24 |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Chevrolet deals and average prices paid.
4. Subaru Ascent
The Subaru Ascent is a three-row midsize SUV that offers plenty of features and functionality.
The Ascent can be outfitted with a lift or ramp system to accommodate a passenger with a wheelchair, and it offers ample room for both passengers and cargo.
Other notable features include all-wheel drive, EyeSight driver assist technology, and a panoramic moonroof.
What's New in 2024? The 2024 model is unchanged after undergoing a mid-cycle refresh in 2023. With the 2023 update, the Ascent received standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a standard vertically oriented 11.6-inch touchscreen, and a refreshed front end.
Pros
- Standard all-wheel drive provides excellent handling in all conditions
- EyeSight driver assist technology comes standard on all trims
- Comfortable and spacious interior
Cons
- Some competitors offer more powerful engines
- Third-row seating can be tight for adults
- Base trim lacks some features that are standard on competitors
Current Subaru Ascent Deals & Incentives
| Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Subaru | Ascent | 2.90% | 4/30/24 | ||
| 2024 | Subaru | Ascent | 2.90% | $409/month for 36 months, $3,324 due at signing | 4/30/24 |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Subaru deals and average prices paid.
5. Hyundai Palisade
The Hyundai Palisade is a spacious midsize SUV that offers plenty of features and functionality.
The Palisade can be outfitted with a lift or ramp system to accommodate a passenger with a wheelchair, and it offers ample room for both passengers and cargo.
Other notable features include a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated seats, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
What's New in 2024? The top trim level Calligraphy Night Edition has been added for 2024. This luxious trim adds black wheels, black roof rails, and a black leather interior. Also, dual-zone front and single-zone rear automatic climate control features are now standard on the base SE trim
Pros
- Roomy and upscale interior
- Standard driver assistance features
- Smooth and comfortable ride
Cons
- No hybrid or electric powertrain options
- Limited cargo space behind third-row seats
- Some interior materials feel low-quality
Current Hyundai Palisade Deals & Incentives
| Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Hyundai | Palisade | ||||
| 2024 | Hyundai | Palisade | $1,250 | 3.99% | $379/month for 36 months, $3,999 due at signing | 4/30/24 |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Hyundai deals and average prices paid.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Wheelchair-Friendly SUV
When selecting an SUV for a family member who uses a wheelchair, there are several critical factors to consider:
Space and Accessibility: The SUV should offer enough room to accommodate the passenger and their wheelchair comfortably. A ramp or lift system should be easily accessible, and the passenger should be able to enter and exit the vehicle independently.- Safety Features: The SUV should provide robust safety features that ensure the passenger with a disability is protected in the event of an accident. Look for models with advanced airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, and stability control systems.
- Comfort: The SUV should offer a comfortable ride for the passenger with a disability. This includes features like adjustable seats, climate control, and sound insulation to reduce road noise.
- Maneuverability: The SUV should be easy to maneuver for the driver, especially when navigating tight spaces or parking lots. A backup camera and parking assist system can also be helpful.
Tips for Modifying an SUV for Wheelchair Accessibility
While some SUVs come pre-equipped with wheelchair accessibility features, others may require modifications to meet the needs of passengers with disabilities. Here are a few tips to consider when modifying an SUV for wheelchair accessibility:
-
Installation of ramps and lifts: Ramps and lifts can make it easier for passengers with wheelchairs to enter and exit the vehicle. There are several different types of ramps and lifts available, so it's important to choose one that meets the specific needs of the passenger. - Adjustment of seat heights and positioning: Adjusting the height and positioning of the seats can make it easier for passengers with wheelchairs to transfer from their wheelchair to the SUV. It's also important to ensure that the seats are properly secured to prevent them from moving during transit.
- Addition of hand controls and other adaptive equipment: Hand controls and other adaptive equipment can make it easier for passengers with disabilities to operate the vehicle. There are several different types of hand controls available, so it's important to choose one that is appropriate for the driver.
