We are still shopping for a new vehicle for DH. I have a Sienna that we primarily use for family travel, and DH's vehicle is used to take him to/from work (10 miles a day or so) and on the weekends for running errands and stuff.
We initially planned to get him another small sedan (he has a Saturn SL1 right now), but we think it might be a good idea to just go ahead and get a small SUV or cross-over that can seat 6 or 7. (My car is in the shop today and we suddenly realized what a pain it is to live in suburbia and not have a vehicle that can transport the entire family! I am stuck at home, and DH is stuck begging rides from people because I can't go get him or take him anywhere.)
I know the Mazda5 is a great option, but DH doesn't love the minivan-esque look. I haven't paid attention to what's available with a 3rd row in years, so I don't even know where to start.
- It will rarely be used with all 6 of us, but needs to be able to handle 4 car seats. Within a year or two, one or two kids MIGHT be able to go in a booster, but right now everyone is harnessed and one HAS to be RF just to meet legal requirements.
- We will probably keep it forever, so we need good head support in all positions for when the kids are out of seats. Good safety ratings a must. Side curtain airbags a big bonus.
- A non-Mom look. The sliding doors on the Mazda5 kill it for DH.
Thoughts on vehicles to look at? We're looking at used, maybe 2003-2008 or so? Thanks!
We initially planned to get him another small sedan (he has a Saturn SL1 right now), but we think it might be a good idea to just go ahead and get a small SUV or cross-over that can seat 6 or 7. (My car is in the shop today and we suddenly realized what a pain it is to live in suburbia and not have a vehicle that can transport the entire family! I am stuck at home, and DH is stuck begging rides from people because I can't go get him or take him anywhere.)
I know the Mazda5 is a great option, but DH doesn't love the minivan-esque look. I haven't paid attention to what's available with a 3rd row in years, so I don't even know where to start.
- It will rarely be used with all 6 of us, but needs to be able to handle 4 car seats. Within a year or two, one or two kids MIGHT be able to go in a booster, but right now everyone is harnessed and one HAS to be RF just to meet legal requirements.
- We will probably keep it forever, so we need good head support in all positions for when the kids are out of seats. Good safety ratings a must. Side curtain airbags a big bonus.
- A non-Mom look. The sliding doors on the Mazda5 kill it for DH.
Thoughts on vehicles to look at? We're looking at used, maybe 2003-2008 or so? Thanks!