Video Tips: Should I Buy a Minivan, an SUV or a Crossover
Aside from pride, family size is the first issue. Some families are so big a minivan may be their only option. While some crossovers and SUVs offer a third row, they are frequently too small or cramped to maneuver younger kids into and out of. Remember to think ahead, knowing your family will likely change in the coming years: You may have more children, your kids will move from infant seats to forward-facing seats and on up to boosters, and you’ll have carpooling to deal with, not to mention after-school activities.
Minivans
Minivans offer comfort, comfort and more comfort. It just doesn’t get more family-friendly than this. Easy passageways throughout the car make for easy access to the third row, and the sliding side doors open wide to help you get large items (like bulky infant seats) in and out easily.
SUVs
Do you need to tow heavy loads, like a boat or a trailer? Do you need higher ground clearance? Do you go off-roading? Most SUVs are built on a truck platform and offer a ruggedness that other vehicle choices can’t supply. Large SUVs obviously aren’t going to be easy on the wallet—think gas mileage—or the environment, if that’s a hang-up for you.
Crossovers
If you’re not ready to be a Minivan Mom but still want a vehicle that offers space and lots of comfort, you should take a look at a crossover. Built on a car platform, their ride is typically smooth, and they offer better gas mileage than big SUVs. They often come with three rows of seats that fold easily to allow for seating and cargo flexibility. If style is your priority, a crossover is probably the ideal choice, as many crossovers focus on visual and ergonomic design more than minivans—or many SUVs – do.
When choosing your next car, it helps if you first identify what is absolutely the most important issue for you. Unfortunately, the mom with four kids who wants something with easy entry that’s environmentally friendly and looks slick is going to have to make some sacrifices.
Check out our minivan reviews, our SUV reviews (two-row and three-row) and our crossover reviews.
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How about cars or wagons?
Obviously there's a limited amount of seating, but a used car is always going to be the most cost effective choice for smaller families.
Posted by: Six | Jan 21, 2008 9:35:06 PM