OP here. Can I ask a favor of all of you? This is a vehicle suggestion thread, not a minivan debate. I am looking for constructive information on the following vehicles: Enclave, Flex, Odyssey, and Sienna. If I just do not like one of those, well, I will be looking at the Yukon XL, Sequoia and Expedition. We are a family of four with three medium-size dogs, so I am not looking at anything smaller. Would you mind terribly if we kept on-track? Thank you.
ETA: I drove a Pilot. Very nice vehicle, but I couldn't even fit the Micro double behind the third row.
It piqued my interest in seeing the Odyssey, though...
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The Odyssey is going to have a number of advantages. It gets better fuel economy, in some cases much better, than any full size SUV and almost every midsize SUV.
Comparably equipped, it is often cheaper than the larger midsize SUVs and much cheaper than full size ones.
The interior room, overall interior length and cargo space are much bigger than any midsize SUV and all but the largest full size models.
Second row is fully adjustable and easily fits most 3-across carseat configurations. No midsize SUV compares and even some full size models are not as flexible here.
Third row is roomier than any midsize SUV and even some full size models. Ditto the space behind the third row, which, as in most minivans, includes a deep well that is very handy for cargo when the third row is in use.
More LATCH and top tethers than almost any SUV. Many SUVs give you the bare minimum, two LATCH and one extra top tether.
Sliding doors and low step in height make it much easier for kids to get in and out and also help in parking lots. The seats allow for easier access to the third row than most SUVs. I traded my Odyssey for a crossover. Sliding doors really are great with younger kids, and even older kids to avoid banging another car in the garage or parking lot.
If interior space is the main criteria, I think you will find only the biggest full size, truck-based SUVs (like Suburban) will compare to the Odyssey and other minivans. Smaller full size models like the Sequoia will not be as roomy. You get an idea of this on paper by looking at published specs, but if you see them in person it becomes clearer. Plus, as mentioned, the largest full size models will cost a lot more and get a lot less fuel economy, especially if you get 4WD. Their big advantage over a minivan is if you do heavy-duty towing or off-roading.
And, don't forget, the Odyssey has perfect crash test results all-around in every single IIHS and NHTSA 2011+ test. I'm not sure if any midsize SUVs can make that claim. Most full size models aren't tested by the IIHS and have minimal NHTSA test results. If crash avoidance is important, I find the Odyssey to handle as well or better than most midsize crossover SUVs and much better than truck-based full-size models I've driven. When it comes to handling, there's just no way around the physics of having a lower ground clearance, lower center of gravity and a modern, unibody chassis with independent suspensions.
I really enjoy my new midsize SUV, but it gives up a lot compared to the Odyssey in terms of seating flexibiity and interior room. The same is true of all the other midsize SUVs and some full size models, too.
You can play with various models and trim levels here, I just picked them quickly and didn't match up features as your preferences are likely different than mine. In particular, pay attention to 2nd and 3rd row legroom numbers and passenger/luggage volumes. I've chosen the smaller engines and 2WD when possible, but many people get the bigger engine options and 4WD that puts the price of the SUVs even higher and the fuel economy even lower.
http://www.cars.com/go/compare/trim...1D0,USC20FOS301C0,USC20GMS201B0,USC20TOS132A0
I read that as a polite request. Not anywhere close to an attempt to dictate. She explained why she was looking at those particular vehicles and reitterated what information she was hoping for.
It was a very polite request. And we are, of course, a very polite community and try to respect such requests, especially in the "upstairs" forums!