With #3's arrival rapidly approaching, we realized that we really need to get looking for a new car. Right now we have a CRV, so the only way to keep it would be to buy 2 more radians and have all 3 across. We would like more room, though, so we are starting to look...
We are thinking about a minivan, but they just seem SO big to me. We think we will test drive a Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and Town and Country. I also am intrigued by the Mazda5 because they are smaller, but they only add one more seat than we have now.
As for bigger SUVs, I am worried that the 3rd row will be harder to access than if we had a minivan, but we are hoping to see the Toyota Highlander just to look. Any other recs for a bigger SUV (I don't want to spend >30K, though, so a bunch of them are out).
Thanks!
Re: Moms of 3+: Tell me about your car
my sister has a toyota sienna and really likes it.
i would look into chevy traverse or acadia i think both can have van seating and are suvs
If you want to try an SUV, I really like the Buick Enclave. If you are wanting a new one I think it will be over your price range, but a used one should not be.
Solo vote for the Minivan! We have a Honda Odyssey and love it. Can you fit into an SUV? sure, but at your budget of 30K, and the fact that you want more room I'd stick with a minivan (not to mention $$ you will save on the gas mileage). Minivan's are big, but so are SUV's, either way you will get used to driving it. GL
Just and FYI, you know that you can install a FF carseat with a seatbelt, you don't have to use LATCH.
Yes, but it doesn't have the top tether anchor in the 3rd row. Don't you still need that for a FFing seat? All my manuals say it's needed no matter how you install. Therefore until seatbelt booster, third row can't really be used.
It is not mandatory, but it is recommended for an easier and more snug installation (not that you can't get a snug fit with only a seat belt, it's just not as easy). Older car's don't have the top tethers, and even older cars (pre 2002) don't have the lower latches. It doesn't meant you can't install a car seat in them. You can still install the car seat, safely, but the top tether must be stored somewhere (you can't just leave it handing). Most seats have a pocket or pouch to store it in.
I knew most older cars didn't have them, so that totally makes sense. Learn something new every day! Thanks