Should I really buy a minivan?

[Anonymous]

I can’t believe I want a minivan. But should I really buy one?

My girls are almost 5 and 3. My car is a 2010 Civic and it runs fine but I really wish I had more space for when we go camping or on road trips. It also drives me crazy with the car seats in my tiny car and those sliding doors look amazing. DH drives a compact hatchback.

Are you happy with your minivan? I was looking most at the Sienna so far.

[Anonymous]

You don't need one with 2 kids, but if you really want one why not the electric VW?

[Anonymous]

I've been driving AWD Siennas since 2010. They're super utilitarian and more spacious than an SUV. Love being able to take my kids and their friends places. The newer Siennas don't have as much cargo space as the pre-hybrid models but we had one as a loaner last year and it was still great for our spring break ski trip.

[Anonymous]

Yes they are awesome.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I've been driving AWD Siennas since 2010. They're super utilitarian and more spacious than an SUV. Love being able to take my kids and their friends places. The newer Siennas don't have as much cargo space as the pre-hybrid models but we had one as a loaner last year and it was still great for our spring break ski trip.

This is OP - I’m in Minneapolis now and the AWD would be great in winter. I love that you can get that in a minivan.

[Anonymous]

With only two kids I would get a SUV.

[Anonymous]

They are gas guzzlers despite many having smaller engines, and awful for the environment.

[Anonymous]

I LOVE my minivan. It has been a real community builder, carpool enabler, and road trip beast. Sure, it screams suburban mom, but I’ve accepted my stage in life. We’ll load it up in August to drive our first off to college, too.

[Anonymous]

Yes, you should get one, the hybrid AWD Sienna. Very practical for road trip, camping, carpooling, school drop off, big stuff (furniture, Xmas tree, etc.) hauling.

[Anonymous]

Agree wholeheartedly with all the Sienna hybrid/AWD glaze. They're rock solid, reliable, versatile. Getting kids in and out, cargo etc. - all just so much easier than with our SUV. We have 3 kids but would recommend minivan for 2 kids.

[Anonymous]

Yes, minivans are not cool, but so much more convenient than SUVs. Especially once you get to carpooling! They fit way more, and you can use it for all stages of kids.

My kids are in HS now, and we regularly carry track relay teams to meets. And we will use it for college move in/out as it holds a ton of boxes!

[Anonymous]

There is a period when the minivan is really handy. You are just beginning this phase. Carpools and the ability to move about the vehicle and hand your kids snacks while on a long car trip is priceless. You will be able to fit 3 additional kids for carpooling and family activities.

[Anonymous]

The last time I looked (admittedly awhile go), 3-row SUVs and minivans cost at least $10K more than a 2-row SUV. I have 2 kids and a 2-row SUV. I can fit 1 or 2 additional kids in my car, but I’m not spending $10K to schlep half a team to practice or a game. Parents with minivans are constantly asked to carpool teammates and I didn’t want to become the default driver. YMMV.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:You don't need one with 2 kids, but if you really want one why not the electric VW?

We've been assuming whenever we pulled the trigger on getting a minivan, it would be for the Sienna, but DH has become very intrigued by the VW since it finally became available.

[Anonymous]

If it doesn't bother you, then get one. Everyone I know who has gotten one loves it.