What exactly am I looking for? Why, everything of course! I want the fun and zip of that AWD sub-compact car, with the seating of the mini van, and the tow package of a heavy duty truck!

All kidding aside, I am looking for a vehicle that suits my family needs. A big plus would be something that satisfies some of our wants as well.

Needs:
People mover. I am running around with 5 bodies (at a minimum), with 3 already at or near 6' height.

Cargo space to handles the goods of said people or the 2 dogs, and on rare occasions...both.

Wants:
Towing capability in the 5,000-7,0000 lbs range.

Fun to drive.

AWD for the Mrs. in winter.


My wants pull me towards the traditional, truck based SUV, my needs favour the traditional minivan.

Based on long term costs, and actual usage, I will probably be better served by getting a mini van and renting, or borrowing, an full size SUV when required.

This is the SUV I want someday:

The Unimog has too high of a center of gravity. You need what the professionals use; a Hummer H1.

The Unimog has too high of a center of gravity. You need what the professionals use; a Hummer H1.

Really?

So buy a Caravan. It's been the obvious choice for over 20 years.
Used to put the kids in the back, pile the Costco stuff in the middle and turn up the radio. Then we couldn't hear them whining....

As a parent with little kids, a CUV makes absolutely no sense.

They have less room, fewer seats and guzzle more gas. Even when they have third row seating, you have to climb over the middle row to get to them - and then you have zero cargo space if you want to go anywhere.

I've been in the market for something bigger of late and I don't see anything but a minivan in my future.