Can you recommend a good car with easy access for elderly drivers?

My husband (aged 86) is finding it increasingly difficult to get in and out of our rather low-slung Vauxhall Vectra Club, so we are looking for a used car that offers easy ingress/egress for the not so young. For personal reasons I would rather not buy anything from the Far East so we are concentrating on the European market. We use the car primarily for local shopping and pleasure trips with the occasional foray down the M4 to visit relatives in Wales or up the M1 for holidays (we are in the south east), so we need something that is easy to park at Tesco, economical, but swift and comfy for long journeys. I have been casting a look at the Mercedes-Benz A-Class. What do you think? And can you suggest alternatives (we don't like the new baby Vauxhall - a bit too small and pokey).

Asked on 6 February 2012 by JG, via email

Answered by Honest John
The old model Ford C-Max is best in this respect. (JG emailed again within days to tell us she had bought one.)
Similar questions
I need a small, easy to drive car for my parents. They have severe back problems and need soft suspension and, ideally, wide opening doors. If it was economical that would be better - but comfort is more...
I would like your advice on behalf of my elderly parents please. They are looking for a new small SUV or hatchback with a low boot lip to load my sister's wheelchair without having to lift it up too high....
We are a retired couple in need of a vehicle with raised front seats so we can get in and out easily. Can you recommend some cars we should consider?
Related models
Best entry and egress of any car anywhere. Excellent front seat comfort.
High-quality interior. Strong diesels. Good record for reliability. Option of four-wheel drive.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer