[tracker1]

Everyone I've ever known with a minivan has had any number of issues with the vehicle in terms of reliability. From the side door track/motors to the undersized/cramped engine with any number of design compromises.

I would NEVER recommend a minivan to anyone, ever.

[beatgammit]

What else do you pick if you have >=3 kids? Or if you're a travel guide with up to four passengers?

I have two kids, and we're thinking about a third, so we're looking around at options to replace our sedan. Here's what I've decided:

- SUVs with a third row suck for anyone in the third row, and they get horrible gas mileage - few sedans and SUVs are big enough for two car seats and a booster - minivans are expensive and frequently have annoying mechanical issues

I think I've settled on the Mazda 5 because:

- three kids + cargo (fold down one back seat) is doable - reasonable gas mileage - comfortable for six adults (going out with friends with a babysitter at home)

Unfortunately, they aren't making them anymore. I really have driving SUVs and trucks, but sedans are too small for my family now. Minivans, while completely "uncool", are the best option for people who need to haul people and stuff at the same time.

[souprock]

Just in case your family grows like mine, get this: https://www.chevrolet.com/commercial/express-passenger-van

Store extra rows of seats in your garage until you need them.

[tracker1]

I don't have a problem with SUVs... frankly, my only opposition to mini vans is the fact that I've never seen one without significant issues in 5 years of ownership or less.

[mark-r]

Isn't that just the craziest thing? How can something so useful be so unpopular?