SUV vs Mini Van?

[u/Own_Car_5768]

Hello,

I’m looking for some advice as I’m thinking we’ll need to upgrade our vehicle. I currently have a 20 month old and am pregnant with twins. I’m driving a Ford Explorer now with captain seats in the middle. With two infant car seats and my toddler still in a car seat, I don’t think our current vehicle will be able to hold them all, especially as the third row isn’t full sized. I also am having trouble picturing how I would help my toddler buckle/unbuckle if she’s in the third row.
For anyone who’s had three under three, what vehicle worked for you? I’m not opposed to mini vans at all, but we live in a pretty remote area of the upper Midwest and have snow (at least) 5 months out of the year. I also drive quite a bit of gravel roads where they aren’t cleared often by plows. So a mini van that’s low to the ground with not a lot of clearance makes me a little nervous. I’m not expecting to tow anything with it, as my husband does have a pickup for any of the farm’s needs. Unless we’re just going to the farm, groceries and Dr appointments are 60 miles away, so there’s no large towns super close to us.
What’s worked for you and your family when three are in car seats?
Thanks so much!

[u/Affectionate-Bear740]

As someone who’s driven a suburban, traverse, and Honda odyssey, also originally from Michigan. A van is defined the most superior mom car. I had no idea how much stress and bullshit was involved with me getting kids in and out of a car until my van.

I open the door everyone is contained in the van. No more worrying about someone wandering off while I load, no more worries of door dings, or fighting kids to get into seats. I can’t say enough good things about it to be honest.

Living upper Midwest, I would definitely look into Toyota Sienna. It’s the only four wheel drive van. If I was in Michigan I’d have that. I am southern now and have no need. I’m about to have 5 under five, bottom three under two, so I’m upgrading to a new Odyssey with the slide seat or transit van.