Whether you have a large family or you’re the one that hauls the team around, you may be wondering if a minivan is the right option for your new car – even though you cringe at the thought. Before you run out and buy or lease one, or start listing all the reasons why you shouldn’t, there are a few essential things you need to know about minivans.
Sliding Doors
If you have kids, sliding doors are a no-brainer – especially the pushbutton ones. You won’t have to worry about dinging vehicles that park too close, and the kiddos won’t have to try to squeeze in either. Add in the fact that minivans typically sit lower to the ground, which means younger kids can climb in on their own, and you also save your back from having to pick up that heavy youngster all the time.
Safety Matters
Minivans are designed for parents, and as such, they offer plenty in terms of safety. With numerous airbags and available upgrades that include blind spot and lane departure warnings, rearview cameras and other tech, you can ensure your entire family is as safe as possible when out on the road.
Less Rollover Risk
While those big SUVs might seem impressive, they also have a higher rollover rate, which can be the difference between an injury and planning a funeral. Minivans are generally heavy and have a lower center of gravity, making them sturdier and less likely to roll if an accident occurs.
Versatile Seating
Minivans nearly all come with third row seating, and this offers a plethora of seating arrangements. Buyers can opt for captain’s chairs for the second row for additional adults or older kids. This will also make it easier to access the third row as well as no one will have to climb over the second row of seats to get there. Add in that you can fold down both the second and third rows in many minivans for added cargo space and it just becomes a win all the way around.
Don’t Forget the Seatbelts
One interesting result of a minivan is that many don’t think a seatbelt is necessary. Not only is this wrong, it could also save lives – especially the driver’s. Unbelted passengers in the back can fly forward with a force of 1,000 pounds, and that can be deadly. Make sure everyone buckles up properly!
