I broke my back in 1977 whilst serving in the RAF. Nothing spectacular like a war injury, I was actually playing football at the time.
Since I was only 18, I repaired quite quickly but over time, my back deteriorated and by the time I left the service in 1994, I was in constant, but moderate pain. This worsened over the years to the point where it began to impact significantly on my motability (read: bendability) and so I gradually adapted my car choices to suit.
Jaguars (XJ6 and XJ40) were brilliant but the single most comfortable car I ever had was a Rover 75. That thing was like driving in your favourite armchair. However, I was having increasing problems getting out of it (everyone with back issues will recognise that) and so made the move into SUV’s with a BMW X5 which was great. Climbing up into a car and being able to slide out makes a huge difference.
Three years ago, following numerous reviews, the MOD increased my war pension to the point where I qualified for the Motability scheme and I purchased a Sportage which has been brilliant.
I am due to change that in November and as a petrolhead, I want something new so I’m currently looking at either the CX5 or the Tiguan. I was keen on the C5 Aircross but the lack of heated seats has finally turned me off it. That may sound fussy, but they make a real difference after a day on your feet. I even had them on the other day when the temperature was in the 30’s!