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Choosing a car as an experienced driver - simon shield cars

Choosing a Car as an Experienced Driver: What Really Matters

By Caroline, Simon Shield Cars, Great Bricett, Ipswich, Suffolk

For a lot of us, the car is freedom. It's popping to see the grandchildren, getting to the shops, making it to appointments, or simply heading out for the day when the mood takes you. And here in Suffolk, where public transport can be limited, it matters even more.

After 30+ years of helping Suffolk drivers find the right car, we've learned that the best car for an experienced driver isn't about the flashiest badge or the biggest engine. It's about how the car feels to live with, every single day.

Here's what we'd think about, and what we'd happily talk through with you.

1. Easy in, easy out

A car you can get into and out of comfortably makes every journey start well. Many experienced drivers choose what's often called a "small and tall" car: a higher seating position, wide-opening doors and a seat at roughly hip height, so there's no dropping down into the seat or climbing up out of it.

Compact SUVs and tall hatchbacks are popular for exactly this reason. They also tend to offer a commanding view of the road and are easy to park.

Our tip: when you test drive, get in and out a few times, not just once. It tells you more than you'd think.

2. Visibility is everything

Good all-round visibility makes driving calmer and more confident. Big windows, a clear view over the bonnet and slim pillars all help.

It's worth knowing that many modern cars have extra airbags and side-impact protection, which is wonderful for safety, but can mean wider pillars and smaller rear screens. Every car is different, so check it for yourself on the road: junctions, roundabouts and reversing into a space.

3. Think about an automatic

Plenty of drivers switch from manual to automatic as they get older, and many say they never look back. Without a clutch and gear lever to think about, there's one less job to do, and it takes the workload off your left leg too.

The Grand Driver scheme (more on that below) points to Suffolk research which found that older drivers in manual cars were involved in significantly more crashes than those in automatics. Hybrids are often automatic as standard, and they can be wonderfully smooth, quiet and economical, too.

4. Helpful safety technology

Many modern cars come with clever features that quietly look out for you:

  • Automatic emergency braking, which can help if something happens suddenly ahead

  • Blind spot detection, a gentle warning if there's a vehicle where you can't easily see it

  • Lane departure warning, which alerts you if you drift out of your lane

  • Adaptive cruise control, which helps keep a comfortable distance on longer journeys

These are there to assist, not to replace your own good judgement, but they can make driving feel more relaxed.

5. Small extras that make a big difference

If getting comfortable behind the wheel is a challenge, there's a whole range of simple, reasonably priced aids: extra mirrors, steering wheel balls, swivel cushions and wedge cushions. They're easy to fit and can make a real difference to comfort and control.

A helpful local resource: the GrandDriver scheme

We'd also like to share something we think is brilliant. GrandDriver is a scheme developed by Suffolk County Council's Road Safety Team, working with Cranfield University, and designed to help experienced drivers stay safe, confident and independent for longer.

It includes a friendly three-hour workshop at venues around Suffolk, and a practical session of around an hour with a specially trained Approved Driving Instructor, at a time and place to suit you. You'll also receive a written report afterwards.

It isn't about taking anyone's independence away. Quite the opposite. It's about helping people keep driving, safely and happily, for as long as they can.

You can find out more at suffolkroadsafe.com. (Please check the website for current workshop dates and details.)

Before every journey: a simple checklist

A few quick checks can make every drive less stressful. The GrandDriver booklet suggests checking:

  • Fuel: enough for the journey, and a plan for where to refuel

  • Oil and water: levels topped up

  • Damage: a quick walk around the car, checking lights and bodywork

  • Electrics: lights and demisters working

  • Tyres: correctly inflated, with plenty of tread (at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre)

  • You: well rested and focused on the drive ahead

And of course, regular servicing keeps everything in good order. If you'd rather not check levels yourself, a garage can do it for you.

Finding the right car, without the pressure

At Simon Shield Cars, we've been a family-run business since 1996. Every car on our forecourt is handpicked, and we'll never rush you. We'll take the time to listen to what matters to you, whether that's an easy-to-drive automatic, a comfortable hybrid or a tall, easy-access SUV, and help you find a car that suits your life.

We're proud of our 500+ five-star reviews, and even prouder of the friendships we've made with customers over the years.

When you're ready, come and see us for a cup of tea and a friendly chat. You'll deal with us, Simon and Caroline, from start to finish. Click here for our stock list.

Simon Shield Cars, Great Bricett, Ipswich, Suffolk

Tel: 07702 410254

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Frequently asked questions

What makes a car easy to drive for experienced drivers?

Look for a comfortable seat height that makes getting in and out easy, good all-round visibility, light controls and an automatic gearbox. Safety features such as automatic emergency braking and blind spot detection can add extra reassurance. The best test is always a proper test drive on roads you know.

Is an automatic car better than a manual?

Many drivers find an automatic more relaxing, as there's no clutch or gear changes to think about, so there's one less task to focus on. It's a personal choice, though, so we'd always suggest trying both if you can.

What does "small and tall" mean?

It describes compact cars with a higher seating position, such as small SUVs and tall hatchbacks. They're popular because they're easy to get into and out of, offer a good view of the road and are simple to park.

What is the GrandDriver scheme?

GrandDriver is a Suffolk County Council Road Safety Team scheme for experienced drivers. It offers a three-hour workshop and a practical session of around an hour with a specially trained Approved Driving Instructor. Please check website for current dates and details.

Do I need to renew my driving licence?

Once you reach 70, you need to renew your licence every three years. It's free to do and can be done online or by post. The DVLA will send you a reminder, and you can find everything you need at gov.uk.

Do I need to tell the DVLA about a medical condition?

Some medical conditions must be reported to the DVLA because they could affect your ability to drive safely. Your doctor can advise you, and the full list is at gov.uk/health-conditions-and-driving.

Can I test drive a car before I decide?

Of course. We'd encourage it. Take your time, get in and out a few times, and see how the car feels on the roads you use every day. There's never any pressure at Simon Shield Cars.

What if I'd like to part-exchange my current car?

Just ask. We're happy to talk it through with you and see what we can do. Simon will give you an honest, straightforward valuation.