Let's forget all the SUV-bashing for a moment. The fact is that while SUVs do offer lots of space, they have drawbacks when compared to cars, such as their large size, tall step-in height, higher fuel consumption and stiffer ride. Still, the demands of family motoring require lots of space for people and stuff. If you need a roomy family-friendly car but don't want an SUV, here are ten competent haulers that will fit the bill nicely.
1. Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester is, quite literally, a down-to-earth SUV, offering an all-wheel-drive system that holds the road in bad weather and will take you surprisingly far off the beaten path. The Forester's cargo floor is a tad higher than most wagons, which makes it easier to load and unload. The base X model is a real bargain; the turbocharged XT serves up extra grins. (While you're at the Subaru dealer, have a look at the Outback, the original SUV alternative and still a great car.)2. Volkswagen Passat wagon
The Passat wagon carries as much as many SUV, plus it's more frugal and much more fun to drive. You can even get 4Motion all-wheel-drive for all-weather grip. I like the combination of the base engine, a two-liter turbocharged four; it's available with a stick-shift but has plenty of power to handle an automatic. For the power-hungry, check out the 3.6 liter V6 -- its 280 horsepower is downright indulgent.3. Mazda 5
If you're considering an SUV because you have lots of people to haul, check out the Mazda 5, which will happily seat six people yet casts a shadow smaller than many mid-size cars, thanks to intelligent interior packaging. The 5 is frugal and enjoyable to drive, claims that most SUVs cannot make.4. Mazda 6 wagon
If you're considering an SUV because you have lots of stuff to haul, then Mazda has another car that might fit the bill: the 6 wagon. With a roomy cargo box out back, available V6 with manual or automatic trans up front, and a sharply-tuned suspension underneath, the Mazda 6 is a stylish and grin-inducing way to get your stuff from point A to point B.5. Scion xB
This box-on-wheels is the ultimate in small-car space efficiency. Fold the rear seats and it'll haul as much cargo as many small SUVs. It's easy to drive, parks anywhere, and uses fuel like aftershave (just a little bit goes a long way). The Scion xB is built by Toyota, which means that if you follow through on routine maintenance, it'll outlive you. It's even available in a wheelchair-accessible version.6. Ford Crown Victoria
Driving a Ford Crown Victoria marks you as either a retiree, a cop or a taxi driver. Who cares? The Crown Vic seats five people in more comfort than all but the largest SUVs, and its trunk is large enough to hold a small suburb. The Crown Vic handles pretty well, and its big-car ride makes it a great highway cruiser. The V8 engine offers lots of oomph and 25 MPG on the highway, a combo you won't find in any SUV. It's durable enough to survive police and taxi service. Family-car duty? No sweat!
