Feb 19, 2008

Just Say "No" to Minivans?

The "family car" has evolved. First there were sedans, then came minivans, and shortly thereafter SUVs became the choice of mom, dad and the kids. Now vehicles merging the best of cars, vans and SUVs known as "crossovers" are fast becoming the people-hauler of choice for many families.

So what's a "crossover?" The relatively new vehicle type has the upright styling that is reminiscent of an SUV but the vehicles are based on car-like chassis, not chassis intended for trucks. Because of their roots, the ride and fuel economy are better than larger, truck-based vehicles. Of course, minivans are also car-based, but the mundane minivan shape is a turnoff to many buyers.

The newest in what is now a long list of crossovers is the Chevrolet Traverse, unveiled at the Chicago Auto show. Designed by a mother of four, the Traverse has family-friendly features with an emphasis on space and security. It has space in its three-row configuration for up to eight passengers. In fact, the designer told us she once had four hockey players in the back of her Traverse. We're not sure what she meant by that.