Let’s take a look at some of the best cars for wheelchair users
There are all manner of clever adaptations that can be fitted to cars these days to ensure everyone can remain mobile, particularly for wheelchair users.
Known as wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs), these are specifically converted to allow a wheelchair user to travel as a passenger in the car, and also driver the car if a vehicle receives more conversions.
Let’s take a look at some of the best cars for wheelchair users, whether these are models with a lift or proving room for a wheelchair to be stored in the vehicle.
Peugeot Rifter
Van-based MPVs are popular choices with wheelchair users, because they’re boxy size makes it easier to access, while the low boot opening makes it simpler to install a ramp for a wheelchair.
The Peugeot Rifter is one of the best choices in this class, as despite its relatively compact dimensions, it still offers a vast amount of space. There’s a choice of electric Rifters alongside used petrol and diesel examples as well, while all versions get a generous amount of standard equipment.
Volkswagen Transporter
Volkswagen’s van-based MPV is ideal for those looking for something a little more upmarket, but still very practical. While you could take a look at the smaller Caddy, if you want a lot more space, it’s worth having a look at the Transporter – particularly the Shuttle version.
In regular form it offers up to nine seats, though you can remove rows of seats, depending on the wheelchair accessibility needs. It’s also one of the simpler models to have been adapted as a WAVs, with the low boot opening allowing for a simpler installation of a ramp.
Audi A6 Avant
Though the Audi A6 Avant won’t be suitable as a WAV, if you’re able to get you or a passenger in the vehicle without having to be in the wheelchair, the boot offers ample space for it to be fitted when disassembled.
The A6 Avant is one of the best large estate cars on the market, with a particularly high-quality interior that’s filled with technology and creature comforts. If you choose a Sport version, which rides on smaller alloy wheels, the ride quality is excellent too – particularly over longer distances.
SEAT Alhambra
Though SEAT might no longer sell its Alhambra new, if you’re happy to shop for a used model, this seriously spacious MPV is worth a look. A sibling product to the SEAT Alhambra, it’s a popular choice to have as a WAV – and it’s a more stylish choice than the usual van layout too.
Depending on your requirements, it can seat up to seven, and still offer a decent boot with all chairs in position, while the electric sliding doors make it particularly easy to get in and out of, depending on accessibility.
Honda CR-V
The CR-V is now Honda’s largest SUV in the UK, and its biggest car in general. Again, this model won’t be suitable as a WAV, but if you’re able to fold the wheelchair up, its boot provides plenty of space, even more so once the rear seats are folded.
The CR-V is now purely sold with a smooth and efficient hybrid powertrain, while four-wheel-drive is available if you want some added capability. Standard equipment levels on the CR-V are particularly good too.
