Looking For A Crossover Or Minivan

I spent the day going through different features on AutoTrader.com. I’ve been playing with the idea of using our tax refund towards a down payment on a newer vehicle. Seeing how happy @ladyozma is with her Dodge Journey I thought I’d do some research.

Suffice it to say, I can’t afford a Dodge Journey. Not even the base model.

Let’s back this train up for a second and talk about what I’m driving right now.

I have an ‘01 Chrysler Town & Country Limited minivan. When we got it 10 yrs ago I was in heaven. Honestly, I still love it. This baby is loaded, even compared to today’s comparative models, this baby rocks! BUT, it has over 198,000 miles and is having different issues. Oh, and the rust, can’t forget the Minnesota rust that happens to nearly every vehicle here.

So, back to the reason for this post.

I’m not so keen on having a minivan anymore. Smooch has her own vehicle and will be going to college in the Fall. It’s just me and the boys. Of course, I have to look to the future, too. I’ll be a grandma in the next 10 yrs, at least that’s my guess. I want to be able to tote my grandbabies around. So, maybe a minivan would be a good choice.

True, I will probably need a newer vehicle before 10 yrs, but still…Not only that, but we travel to Chicago and VA to visit family. That means there’s the potential to have 5 of us and a dog together in one vehicle. Trust me, we want comfort.

Of course, there’s the CUV, but the issue with that is, it’s basically a minivan but without the large space inside. Have you compared the sizes of a CUV and minivan? They’re pretty much the same in bulk. Oh, and in fuel mileage. May as well just go with the minivan at that rate.

My Chrysler is an AWD and I absolutely adore that feature, especially here in the MN winters. So, I would love to have that with my new vehicle. The downside to an AWD is the gas sucking power of it!

I also want that extra seating for 7 people. I know, I want it all but at a low cost. I’m crazy and I understand that. A girl can dream right? I figure if I can find something a year to three years old with miles under 40K miles, it might be affordable. And when I say “affordable” I mean something I still can’t afford.

What else do I love in my current vehicle that I’d like in a new one:

• Good sound system w/ CD changer
• dimming Rearview mirror
• Dual Climate Zones
• Power Lift Gate
• Passenger Lights in front and back (not just dome)
• Electric Seat Controls at least for the driver
• Good Storage
• Built-in Cup Holders
• Power Side Doors if I go with a minivan
• Luggage Rack

Right now I’m leaning towards the Saturn Outlook and the GMC Terrain. And when I say “leaning” I mean, I looked through photos online and they look like they’d fit what I’m looking for. I’m about aesthetics.

What are you driving? Any suggestions for me? Would you go for a minivan or crossover?

The photos are from Autotrader.com who had nothing to do with this post and have no clue I’m talking about them.