SUV comparison debating the best passenger car to haul around your entire family. This SUV vs minivan comparison includes vehicles with top safety ratings.
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If a sedan does not have enough room for your family, then you might be interested in an SUV or a minivan. Both offer extra cargo space and plenty of head- and legroom for passengers. When you conduct a family car and SUV comparison, SUV vs. minivan features should be one of the things you discuss with an experienced professional. Comparing the two types of vehicles ahead of time will help you narrow down your options, saving you time and making it easier to negotiate a good deal.
Price
Any time you conduct a family car and SUV comparison, SUV vs. minivan price is going to be one of the most important considerations. It is possible to find a compact SUV with a price lower than $20,000. If you need a mid-size or full-size model, expect to pay anywhere from $25,000 to $45,000. Some companies produce luxury models that cost as much as $100,000. Basic minivans start at $19,000 and go up to about $25,000. If you want a minivan that has the same features as a luxury sedan, expect to pay about $45,000.
Fuel economy
Fuel economy is another important consideration when you conduct a family car comparison. SUV vs. minivan gas mileage is another issue you can discuss with the sales agent. If fuel economy is one of your primary concerns, a compact SUV with a four-cylinder engine may be the right choice. Some SUV models have six-cylinder and eight-cylinder engines, which are a little less economical than the four-cylinder models.
Compact models can get a combined gas mileage in the high twenties, while models with six-cylinder engines get a combined mileage in the high teens. Minivans with six-cylinder engines get a combined mileage of 20 mpg. Expect lower fuel economy in vans with V6 or V8 engines.
Safety ratings
When you have a family to transport, safety is another top concern. Before choosing an SUV or minivan model, check the results of tests conducted by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Both organizations conduct front and side crash tests. NHTSA conducts more than a dozen safety tests to ensure vehicles are safe for drivers and passengers.
You can also check the rankings published by J.D. Power and Associates. For this year, J.D. Power picked the Ford Explorer as one of the safest SUV models. AOL Autos says the Volkswagen Routan, Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna are among the safest minivans.
Interior comfort
Although comfort and convenience features may not be as important as safety and fuel efficiency, they are something you should consider any time you shop for a car. SUVs and minivans both have a variety of features to make your ride more pleasant. The new Ford Explorer has cruise control, third-row cup holders, storage consoles, front and rear power outlets and audio controls on the steering wheel.
The Honda Odyssey has cruise control, rear and front door pockets, front seatback storage and a rearview camera. Review each model to see the interior options and available seating.
Get price quotes for your family car and SUV comparison now!
SUVs and minivans both have desirable features and plenty of space for your family members. Before you shop, you should compare both types of vehicles to see which one suits your preferences and meets your needs for cost of ownership and fuel efficiency. When you are ready to take a test drive, use Buyerlink to find a local dealership. Talk to a sales professional about your family car comparison, SUV vs. minivan concerns and any questions you may have about either type of vehicle.