The Right Size Minivan for the Average Family
Pros:
Smaller size;nimble handling;Japanese quality.
Cons:
engine (fuel economy and noise); access to the last row.
The Bottom Line:
If you only use the third row use once in a while, this is the ideal minivan for you regarding the price, reliability and performance.
|
|
Overall Rating:
|
 |
|
Author's Review
My experience with this van has been positive. I love the Japanese quality and design.
Everything is so thoughtfully designed and user oriented. The second row of chairs can slide sideways to form a bench or two separate chairs. The third row can be hidden under the floor or for tailgate party. Some little things are extremely thoughtful such as when filling up the gas, the door cannot be opened; an extralarge windshield washer fluid container whose neck you can only see; underseat storage bin and other storage bins;lots of cupholders and milk bottle holders on each sliding door.
The size of this van is the second main reason I bought it. While a lot of people will go for a larger minivan, my family does not need one. The small size helps make parking easier. My trip to work is basically one hour city and highway driving. I was looking for something that is safe but can move around nicely in the city. I believe the lateral acceleration is 0.8g, best in class. (Not that I am going to drive it like a Miata.) Also, the triple H design and five star safety rating give me the peace of mind.
I just tried the traction on this van. It is surprisingly sure footed in the snow even with all season tires and no traction control.
The first thing that I think can be improved is the engine. The Ford duratec engine is powerful enough but not as quiet as my father's Honda V6 engine. It is not too bad but I expect a near silent engine. The second shortcoming is the access to the third row. It takes a little bit of struggling to get to the last row. I am expecting something like fold and tumble for easy entry and/or larger sliding doors. The final point is about gas mileage. Since this is the smallest minivan, I am expecting better than average mileage. To my disappointment, I am averaging 20mpg city/highway.
A note about the shift lever blocking the volume and AC switch. To me, there is no problem. I usually turn on the Ac after I started the car with the lever in Park which is not in the way of the switch. As for the radio button, there is another set of volume, scan , mode, mute control buttons right on the steering wheel at the finger tips. Why stretch all the way to the base machine?
CarsBelowInvoic e
