9 Cars That Can Fit a Wheelchair in the Trunk
Finding a car that can accommodate a wheelchair in the trunk can be a challenge. Wheelchairs come in different sizes, so not every vehicle will have enough cargo space.
However, there are many options to choose from if you know what to look for. This article will explore 9 sedans, SUVs and minivans that can transport a folded wheelchair in the back.
Choosing a Wheelchair-Friendly Vehicle: Key Considerations
When researching vehicles, first figure out the dimensions of your wheelchair when folded. Measure the length, width and height.
This will help determine the cargo volume needed. Also consider the weight of the chair and if you’ll need a ramp or lift gate for easier access.
Here are some key things to look for in a wheelchair friendly vehicle:
- Deep and wide trunk space
- Low trunk lift over height
- Minimal rear wheel wells that don’t intrude on space
- Flat trunk that makes sliding a chair in easier
- Enough interior height to accommodate a folded chair upright
- Heavy duty suspension that can handle the extra weight
With those factors in mind, here are 9 vehicles to consider that can transport a folded wheelchair in the trunk.
Top 9 Wheelchair-Friendly Vehicles: Spacious Options and Considerations
1. Toyota Avalon
The Toyota Avalon sedan has a very roomy 16 cubic foot trunk that can handle most folded wheelchairs.
There is a large opening and deep well that provides ample space between the wheel wells. The rear seats can also be folded down to accommodate larger chairs if needed.
Pros:
- Spacious trunk
- Deep cargo well
- Wide opening
- Fold-down rear seats
Cons:
- No ramp or lift gate options
- Higher trunk lift over height
2. Honda Accord
Honda’s popular Accord midsize sedan can fit some wheelchairs in its trunk that measures over 15 cubic feet. The low rear floor allows for sliding a chair in and the opening is nice and wide.
The Accord makes a comfortable, reliable wheelchair accessible vehicle.
Pros:
- Roomy deep trunk
- Wide opening
- Lower lift over height
- Good gas mileage
Cons:
- No ramp or lift gate available
- Rear wheel wells may limit some larger chairs
3. Chrysler Pacifica
The Chrysler Pacifica is a minivan with generous cargo space and available wheelchair ramps, making it one of the top accessible vehicle choices.
The regular Pacifica has over 32 cubic feet of space behind the third row while the hybrid model offers over 30 cubic feet. There are no wheel wells intruding inside to limit room for a wheelchair.
Pros:
- Very spacious trunk area
- Available ramp for access
- Deep flat floor
- No wheel wells in cargo area
Cons:
- More expensive than sedans
- Large vehicle size
4. Nissan Altima
Nissan’s Altima provides a good combination of interior space, fuel efficiency and affordability.
The midsize sedan has a deep 15.4 cubic foot trunk space to accommodate folded wheelchairs. The rear opening is nice and wide while the floor is flat for sliding chairs in.
Pros:
- Roomy trunk capacity
- Lower trunk lift over
- Affordable price
- Good gas mileage
Cons:
- No ramp options
- Rear wheel wells limit space
5. Hyundai Sonata
Similar in size to the Nissan Altima, the Sonata by Hyundai is another nice option for transporting a wheelchair.
There is about 16 cubic feet of space in the trunk which has a flat floor and wide opening. The Sonata provides an accessible vehicle at a lower price point.
Pros:
- Ample trunk room
- Flat trunk floor
- Wide rear opening
- Affordable pricing
Cons:
- No ramps or lift gates
- Wheel wells limit some space
6. Kia Optima
Kia’s Optima sedan is a wheelchair friendly choice with over 15 cubic feet of trunk capacity. The sedan combines ample cargo room with good fuel economy and affordable pricing.
The trunk floor is flat which makes loading chairs easier. The Optima works well as an inexpensive wheelchair accessible vehicle.
Pros:
- Roomy cargo capacity
- Lower starting price
- Flat trunk floor
- Good gas mileage
Cons:
- No ramp options
- Rear wheel wells limit space
7. Dodge Charger
The Dodge Charger is a sedan with performance and space to accommodate wheelchairs.
There is over 16 cubic feet available in the trunk which has a wide opening. The rear seats fold down allowing larger chairs if needed. Large door openings also assist wheelchair access.
Pros:
- Very spacious trunk
- Rear seats fold down
- Large doors help entry
- Available V8 power
Cons:
- Poor fuel economy
- Higher starting price
- No ramps or lifts
8. Hyundai Tucson
For an SUV option, the compact Hyundai Tucson has room for some wheelchairs with over 31 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats.
Folding down the seats opens up to over 61 cubic feet of cargo room for larger chairs. A clean opening with no rear wheel wells makes loading easier.
Pros:
- Ample cargo room
- Rear seats fold down
- Wide opening
- Affordable pricing
Cons:
- No ramp options
- Smaller than a minivan
9. Kia Sportage
Similar in size to the Tucson, Kia’s Sportage compact SUV can also handle wheelchairs in its rear cargo area.
There is over 30 cubic feet behind the rear seats. Folding the seats down provides almost 62 cubic feet of space for bigger chairs. A nice clean opening gives easy access.
Pros:
- Good amount of cargo space
- Rear seats fold down
- Wide opening
- Lower starting price
Cons:
- No ramp or lift options
- Less room than a minivan
Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ section provides essential information on measuring, accommodating, and transporting wheelchairs, addressing dimensions, trunk space, vehicle suitability, and accessibility options for wheelchair users.
What Dimensions Should I Measure On My Wheelchair?
When folded, measure the length, width and height of your wheelchair to determine the cargo space needed. Also be sure to factor in the weight.
What Features Help Accommodate A Wheelchair?
Deep cargo space, wide openings, flat trunk floors and fold-down rear seats can provide room for wheelchairs. Ramps and lift gates also allow easier access without lifting.
How Much Trunk Space Do I Need For A Wheelchair?
The trunk capacity needed depends on your wheelchair model when folded. Smaller chairs may fit in 15 cubic feet while larger ones require 20 cubic feet or more of cargo room.
Can A Wheelchair Fit In A Sedan Trunk?
Many midsize and full-size sedans have at least 15 cubic feet of space that can transport smaller folded wheelchairs. Larger power chairs may require a minivan or SUV with more cargo room.
Do Automakers Offer Wheelchair Accessible Options?
Some minivans like the Chrysler Pacifica offer wheelchair ramps and lifts as factory options. But most standard sedans and SUVs do not have accessibility features from the manufacturer.
Summary
Finding a vehicle that can fit a wheelchair in the trunk provides mobility freedom. When shopping for a car, key things to evaluate are cargo capacity, opening width, floor depth and rear seat folding.
Minivans tend to offer the most interior space, but there are many sedan and SUV models that can transport folded wheelchairs in their deep trunks as well.
Just be sure to measure your chair’s dimensions to find a vehicle match. Among the most wheelchair friendly options are the Toyota Avalon, Honda Accord, Chrysler Pacifica, Nissan Altima and Hyundai Sonata.
With some research, you can find the right automobile to fit your accessibility needs.