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Santa, What Minivan Will You Bring Me?

Since family is the most important for many of us, auto makers must take advantage of this aspect. Actually they already do it... and quite a lot. And prices are not at all what we could easily call a bargain since we have to make consistent savings when it comes to our weekly shopping tour in order to purchase a family carrier. But since the competition is really tough nowadays, women are expecting car models to live up to their most sophisticated expectations. Well, just in time for our holiday travel, you might want to take a look what NADAguides.com has rated as being the best mini vans for 2009. Just to let Santa know what you want for Christmas... Not only for you of course but for the whole family. Dodge Sprinter
In case you happen to have a big family, this car would make a really appropriate choice. The mini van is able to carry up to 12 passengers in a very spacious four-row cabin. No more worries for the kids as they will have plenty of space to play during long boring family journeys. And if you also take into consideration that it exhibits a complete list of safety features including traction control and passenger escape window the car might actually gain you really fast.

Mazda 5

Don't be fooled by the size because contrary to the rumors, size can be tricky this time. It may be the smallest van from the list, but not necessarily the least powerful. So before rushing to conclusions try to consider its six-passenger seating, the nice size cargo area and second and third-row folding seats. And the list is not over yet: let's just not ignore its safety features such as its side-curtain airbags on all the three rows. Not so bad after all...

Volkswagen Routan

VW fans will definitely appreciate the 2009 Volkswagen Routan as a great family carrier. The seven passenger-minivan with VW-inspired styling is certainly a convincing option for family travel for it has two power sliding side doors, rear DVD entertainment with screens for the second and third rows, touch screen navigation and more cup holders than you’ll actually need. But try to take this as a promising bonus for you may never know what expects you in the future.

Toyota Sienna

The model appears as a quiet car on the road and offers “a beautiful ride in a spacious and well-equipped cabin” as NADAguides claims. You might not be interested in the technical details of the engine, such as the 266 horsepower output, but the sleek exterior styling might make you fall in love at first sight. And the list of optional equipment, including navigation, a back-up camera and rear seat DVD entertainment, is not at all insignificant.

Ford Flex

At first blink, you wouldn't call that a car for a lady, mother, wife whatever she may be. But appearances can be deceiving! Skeptics will also argue about Ford Flex being a min van, labeling it as a crossover. Even Ford denies it is a mini van, yet it used to replace the Ford Freestar. Then what is it after all?! Just to make it even more confusing, NADAguides calls it “super cool… an exciting addition to Ford’s line-up.”

So, whatever this may be, the Flex offers seating for up to seven passengers and a generous cargo room. And that could just send it in the unwanted mini vans category. Moreover, the 2009 Ford Flex features a glass Vista Roof over all three rows, swing-out side doors and a rear refrigerator for chilling drinks. Think about the fun your kids will have and ignore the part with them asking to go to the toilet every five minutes!

Chrysler Town and Country

In case nothing sounded really convincing until now, let's take a quick look at the 2009 Chrysler Town and Country. The mini van is just perfect for  people who enjoy flexible seating and cargo space as it features optional Swivel ‘n Go seating and a Stow ‘n Go system with folding second and third rows. This does truly makes the difference... Just think! What would you choose between a Mascara featuring a stiff brush or one that has a flexible one to make your eyelids longer than you've ever imagined?

Honda Odyssey

If you are to believe NADAguides, then you'll agree that Honda Odyssey is “one of the best all-around minivans on the market”. How come?! Well, the label might have been given because it comes with 244-hp V6, seating for up to eight passengers, a smooth ride and “quality fit and finish.” What about safety? Apparently, the car is quite safe... not that we had any doubts about it. The model has side-curtain airbags for all three rows, anti-lock brakes,  traction control and electronic stability control. What could you possibly ask more? A baby-car seat included in the price? That wouldn't be a bad idea at all...

After reading the entire list, you have probably become more confused than at the beginning. Don't worry! Stress is making you old sooner, so if in doubt what to ask Santa to bring next year in terms of mini vans, just follow your instinct or ask for another opinion. In fact, husbands/boyfriends are always ready to give a helpful hand when their sweetheart is completely puzzled!
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