There comes a point when every new parent has to face what seems like the inevitable: the minivan. Or there's the Mazda 5, a sort of mini-minivan. Two sliding doors make it easy to get the kids in and out, and a spacious hatchback has ample room for all their gear. The ride is more sedan than truckster, and you can still squeeze into tight parking spaces.
Wired More fun to drive and more conveniently designed than most so-called family cars. Fold-down third row kills cargo room but allows seating for six. Gets 27 mpg on the highway, 21 in the city. Excellent stereo for your Dan Zanes CDs. Inexpensive.
Tired Styling still smacks of minivan. Interior feels a little spartan.
