Hi Frances,

A lot depends on budget, of course. Generally speaking, it’s best to go for a vehicle that’s slightly higher up, which can make getting in and out a little easier, and you want to go for a car with truly great seats. The last-generation Opel Meriva is actually a good choice — it’s higher up than a hatchback, but not so high you have to climb up into it. Plus, the seats are approved of by the German bad back association, Action Gesunder Rucken. Mind you, back pain is a hugely personal thing. I’ve driven supposedly comfortable cars that have left me in agony, and cheap stuff that has been comfy as anything. It’s worth test driving a few different cars to try and see what works best for you. Other cars worth looking at are the Citroen C3 Picasso (great seats, similar height to the Meriva), Skoda Yeti, VW Golf Plus, Citroen Picasso, Ford C-Max, Toyota Verso-S or Suzuki SX-4.