[The Former PFR]

As killer to your image as they may be, a Minivan will transport your whole family of 6 to the beach just as comfortably as a full size SUV and still get 20+ on the highway at the same time. It will also handle better and ride better. The Europeans have it right. They have economic, utilitarian vehicles that get the job done the most efficient way possible. We had a B class Mercedes in Europe. It was small, but was comfortable inside, quiet, had enough power to get you where you needed to be and got 45 MPG at the same time. Sure it wasn't uber sexy, but it got the job done. I would put my old Volvo station wagon against any midsize SUV out there when it comes to day to day utilitarianism. However, I doubt you are gonna see most midsize SUVs get 28 mpg like my car. [/Rant][/Soapbox]