[Don Plumley]

The Honda is the category killer. I think there was a weakness in the tranny though - worth looking into. If you need ready access to the 3rd row, a minivan is hard to beat. Of course, if you get something a little bigger than it could tow something, which would make it a work vehicle.

We have a Volvo XC90 which has 3rd row seating, well appointed, reasonable towing capacity. It's our "nice" car, looks at home in the mountains and in front of a restaurant. Plus side curtain airbags, etc.

But with little kids, I bet the the sliding doors of the Honda, low floors, etc. makes it very manageable for Mrs. Pelican.

Don