First-time parents-which do you think is better, a sedan or minivan?

Question

I am pregnant with my first child and we are looking to upgrade to a larger vehicle. I am stuck on whether to get a 4 door car or a minivan. I have a hard time justifying driving a minivan with just 1 kid. But I know in a few years if we have another one, the car will be crowded! If I go with a 4 door car, I know which one I will get. If you drive a minivan, what kind do you like the best? I'm looking for something used, 2005 or newer and good gas mileage because I drive 50 miles a day round trip to work and my baby will go with me. I am not interested in an SUV. I also don't really like the crossovers. Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated!

Answer 1

Mini van all the way LOL We had a sedan (my first brand new car) and a few months after our second was born we traded it in on a used mini van. It was great. Because we could still take one car when my sisters visited and fit in their kids. Also it makes trips so much nicer when you do not have to pack every nook and cranny. Once they are older it is nice as well because you have separate controls for the A/C and heat for the front vs the back. It is also a lot easier to get an infant carrier in and out of a van vs a sedan. We had a Toyota Sienna and while I LOVED it it did not get the best gas mileage, but it was a 1998 a newer one might. We bought it used and it lasted us 6 years. We just 3 months ago traded it in on a 4 runner. My kids are now 7 & 9 and I was sad to see it go. But my husband really wanted 4 wheel drive (it snows a lot where we live) and something else we could tow with if needed. My kids love it because their windows roll up & down LOL something the van did not do.

Answer 2

I have an '04 Ford Freestar and really like it. I only have 1 child. But I have a bunch of nephews plus some friends with kids.

In a sedan, even the 3 of us plus my in-laws would be a tight fit.

The rear seat folds down easily so the back has tons of space. It's great for when we go on vacation, to put the stroller in, or if you have a dog.

It's also nice to not have to bend down to put my son in all the time, especially now that he's a bit older.

My husband drives a sedan and I have the mini-van and we're happy with both. But I would say go mini-van, it's nice to have the extra room.

Also, if you haven't yet bought a car seat, I suggest a Britax Boulevard or Marathon.

Good luck with the baby!

Answer 3

If you dont want an suv then go for a minivan.

A minivan you dont have to reach down and get a child out.

They are much more roomy.  And two sliding doors are so so convenient..

Safety ratings on some minivans are excellent.

I personally like Toyota. Surprisingly  Kia has a minivan with excellent safety ratings, and it would be cheaper than buying a toyota.

Good luck with your decision..