6 replies to this topic

[fran-ray]

Hi, Im looking for a new car but i'm not sure which one to have. I would not be the driver but I still have to get a sensible one as I would depend on this for my sports. I was wondering what other people with spinal injurys have and what you recomend to other people. Which cars are not helpful. And also if you can store plenty of wheelchairs in it.

Hope you can help

-------------------------
Fran = age 12
T12 Complete

[Joed]

(Incomplete para)

I drive a Toyota Rav-4...a small SUV. I can fit my motor w/c or scooter into the back without breaking them down. I can't do this by myself, as I have no ramps or lifts....but my husband has a strong back. .....so far.

The back seats also fold forward, giving much more room to haul extra equipment, if needed.

Great gas mileage too.

The height difference between the ground and driver's seat is just right for me...not too hard to lift up into, and just enough height when getting out to take advantage of the gravity. I'm only 5 ft., on a good day, so a small SUV works perfect for me. I find it easier to lift myself up slightly as opposed to lowering myself down into a car, and likewise, easier to sort of just fall out of my vehicle as opposed to hoisting myself up out of it. I can also seatbelt my son in the back without having to bend over or reach up to do it.

[fran-ray]

Thanks I will pass this information onto my parents

------------------------------
Fran = age 12
T12 Complete

[Lucydog]

Hear Hear, I completly agree with Joed on this. I have a mitsubishi Shogun, which again I find I can get UP into rather than down. What you probably need to look for though is a Long Wheel Base vehicle or a modified van type. I guess you will be using a rigid frame chair for sports? In which case you need bigger boot space. I think the VW Touran may look quite a good bet as Ive noticed them on motorways and they look pretty roomy to me.

[russ1]

I think you'll find that a mid to large estate to suit your budget will suit the UK roads much better than a 4x4 or pseudo 4x4 and will swallow more wheelchairs and sports equipment more easily. Unless you're off roading why on earth pay the penalty in initial cost and fuel economy of driving 4 wheels when two wheels works fine?

We hired a Porshe Cayenne (on an occasion we actually needed a 4x4) - same floorpan as a VW touran - very expensive and not very good would be my summary of that and pretty awkward to get in and out of

Mondeo Estate, Volvo Estate, Honda, Saab or 5 series BMW would be the ones to look at IMHO depending on budget. Focus Estate if on a budget.

Just my 2p

[kanga2433]

I have a Renault Kangoo. It ios very handy for loading the chair as the rear door slides backwards. have a look how I loaded my old chair here.

[fran-ray]

Thanks for all the help. I am really greatful all the information has now been passed onto my parents and there looking at them all!!!

-------------------
Fran = age 12
T12 Complete