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by Ellena Weller


Has your own household outgrown the family vehicle? Should you just face facts and just trade in your smaller sized vehicle for the larger one you really need? But how do you know if the best choice for your family is a minivan or a sport utility vehicle?

Both vehicles have more than enough room, can comfortably seat five to eight people, and provide entertainment systems for those sitting in the back. Despite the fact that both are designed with safety features such as anti-lock brakes and air bags, a minivan is less likely to roll over compared to an SUV. You will need to review your family's needs, and a closer look at the individual vehicles to determine which one belongs in your garage. The type of styling, the towing capacity, the optimal fuel economy, and the available space for passengers will all be factors in determining which vehicle works best for you and your family.

The style of a vehicle is usually just a question of what you actually prefer. At this point, the SUV usually wins out, due to its rugged, sporty styling, that just speaks urban cool. The minivan won't lose its reputation or connection with carpooling and soccer moms. Nearly all men would prefer to do anything, than be found driving the family minivan, and that is why you normally see them being driven by women. Young kids like riding around in a minivan but, after they become teenagers, they consider it embarrassing to be delivered to school in a minivan. Where the minivans win out is in the fuel economy, because the SUVs are gas guzzlers. When searching for the best vehicle economy wise, the minivan stands out as the way to go.

The minivan generally has reduced insurance and maintenance expenses so you'll pay more if you're purchasing a vehicle to impress others. The cargo area, as well as the passenger space is really the same with both vehicles, but young children love the roomy interiors of the minivan. The minivan is really a much better option if your family includes young children because of its large windows and low step-in height. Should you be the weekend type, who hauls a boat to the nearby lakes, you'll be wanting the SUV, with its superior towing capacities. As you can see, the option of vehicle can be decided mainly by the needs of your family rather than preferences.

With regards to safety, that might be the deciding factor for what vehicle you choose. Although both vehicles have similar safety features, SUVs demonstrate a higher risk for rollover when an accident occurs. Conversely, SUVs provide the greater protection in a two-car accident and rollovers generally occur in less than 5% of all collisions. If you're more thinking about a rollover, then the minivan will give you better peace of mind.




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