SUV v. Minivan for national park summer driving or does it not matter?
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SUV v. Minivan for national park summer driving or does it not matter?
I apologize in advance if this is a ridiculous question. We are renting a car to drive the LV-Page-Bryce-Zion loop (family of 5). We are traveling in the summer and the price to rent a minivan v. a full size SUV (with either rear wheel or all wheel drive) is virtually the same. Is there a recommendation for driving with an minivan or SUV or does it not matter at this time of year? Thanks.
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You absolutely don't need an SUV for the four-wheel-drive aspect, but I can't imagine why you'd want a minivan either. If you have a choice, I'd take something no later than a compact SUV (like a Honda-CRV or similar). There's plenty of room for 5 people (even 5 adults) as long as you don't have a huge amount of baggage.
If you really do want/need a huge vehicle, then just pick the one you prefer.
If you really do want/need a huge vehicle, then just pick the one you prefer.
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Thank you! Appreciate the fast response.
Doug - trust me, I don't "want" a minivan, but trying to keep peace in the car for long distances with three recent teenagers can be a challenge - so a little extra space in the car - whatever car it is - goes a long way!
Doug - trust me, I don't "want" a minivan, but trying to keep peace in the car for long distances with three recent teenagers can be a challenge - so a little extra space in the car - whatever car it is - goes a long way!
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I can understand the desire to have a mini-van on a road trip for the extra space, especially with 3 kids in the car.
I agree with janis - get the best vehicle for the comfort of the family. You can take any modern car to the places you are visiting, so the terrain isn't a factor in the choice of car.
I agree with janis - get the best vehicle for the comfort of the family. You can take any modern car to the places you are visiting, so the terrain isn't a factor in the choice of car.
#13
Having driven long distances with kids, a minivan is the way to go. Space and separation trumps everything. For several years we had a full sized conversion van and that was best of all. The only reason you may need a 4WD is if you plan to do some of those roads where a high clearance 4WD vehicle is required. If you don't have experience with such roads, on the job learning is not the way to go.
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Thanks for all the replies. Minivan it is - as extra space generally equates to more family peace in the car - which far outweighs some of the other considerations for us! Thanks again to everyone!
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luisr_12
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Apr 29th, 2013 09:48 AM