A lot of modern SUVs are actually pretty similar in specs to minivans:
Mazda CX9: weight: 4,409lbs, 199″ L x 78″ W x 68″ H
Honda Odyssey: 4,482lbs, 205″ L x 79″ W x 70″ H
For us, it mostly boiled down to us needing to periodically drive in snowy conditions. Obviously an SUV is not a magical vehicle for wintry conditions, but 4wd is big advantage.
Mazda CX9: weight: 4,409lbs, 199″ L x 78″ W x 68″ H
Honda Odyssey: 4,482lbs, 205″ L x 79″ W x 70″ H
For us, it mostly boiled down to us needing to periodically drive in snowy conditions. Obviously an SUV is not a magical vehicle for wintry conditions, but 4wd is big advantage.