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Need suggestions on a spacious vehicle

17 years ago

As the size of my family grows, I am looking into "upgrading" from my 96 Sentra to something that is roomy enough for a family with two kids that are 5 and 1 year old, and one other adult relative who plans to live with us for some time. At the same time, rising gas prices make me re-consider my thoughts on getting an SUV or a minivan. I'd appreciate some suggestions on possible options (at least 5-6 year old vehicles) that are not gas-guzzling, yet are fairly spacious for 3 adults and 2 kids.

Thanks in advance.

Comments (6)

steve_o
17 years ago
Some minivans really aren't bad on fuel, especially if you're not hung up on how many cylinders it has. One question: how mobile is the adult in question? Would it be difficult for him/her to sit down in a car or step up into a van?

One of the best bets might be a larger Buick. They've gotten good quality ratings and they're "full-size" (whatever that means anymore) yet they still get surprisingly good mileage. And since they don't head up the automotive hit parade, they can be had for relatively low prices.

A Ford Crown Victoria or Chevy Impala also might be worth considering, though the Crown Vic is rear-wheel-drive and the Impala of that vintage is -- well, maybe not GM's finest styling moment.
earthworm
17 years ago
Volkswagen has just the vehicle, and with a Diesel engine - but I doubt if we will ever see this..
Our auto-makers have made the so-called minivan too large - fine for 7 or 8 passengers; but we do need a true 5 or 6 passenger vehicle, but not those oversized abortions of the late 50s up to this day (Ford)..
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lee676
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Mazda 5, maybe? A sort of tall wagon or microvan, 3 rows of seats for up to 6 people, each in their own seat. The second and third rows fold down, and side access is through minivan-style sliding doors. But it's smaller than even a "mini" van. Also at Mazda dealers while they last, the MPV minivan, which is considerably smaller than most other brands but is very roomy and quite well designed. Otherwise, maybe a car-based utility vehicle with front drive and 3 rows of seats, like the newly revamped Toyota RAV4.
jasper_60103
17 years ago
Love my Honda Odyssey. Room for 6 passengers and gets decent gas mileage. Even used, they're no bargain though.

A guy at a restaurant was asking me about mine, which is a 2000. I think he wanted to make offer.
daddio2
17 years ago
Check out the Ford 500's. We bought a 2005 and we love it. Tons of interior room plus an enormous trunk. We have the all wheel drive and we are quite happy.
jemdandy
17 years ago
You have two children ages 1 and 5 plus you need space for 3 adults. To be legal in my state, your vehicle must accomodate 2 child seats plus 3 adults.

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