Optional Minivan

The Bottom Line: The 2009 Mazda Mazda5 Grand Touring is an interesting choice for a budding family, primarily because there's nothing that directly compares to it on the market. Mazda will need to improve the interior quality if the Mazda5 is to really feel like a Grand Tourer.

Specs: Minivan, Gas

The Bottom Line: The 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan defies the normal expectations for drivability in a minivan, while offering excellent entertainment features for families. Its few flaws are the kinds of things you might expect in a minivan.

Specs: Van, SXT, Gas

The Bottom Line: The 2007 Chrysler Town & Country does what minivans are supposed to do--carry people and cargo from point A to point B--but it's unlikely the driver will enjoy the trip, as the car's cabin gadgets are merely functional.

Specs: Van, Touring, Gas

The Bottom Line: The 2006 Nissan Quest lets form trump function too often to be a market success. It drives nicely and maximizes space, but the interior falls short in so many minor ways that it adds up to a major drawback.

Specs: van, 3.5 SE, Gas

The Bottom Line: The 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT hits the trifecta for tech options, including cell phone integration, navigation, and MP3 playback, but the implementation isn't always top-notch. Mediocre performance, handling, and fuel economy add to this car's compromises.

Specs: van, SXT, Gas

The Bottom Line: The 2006 Honda Odyssey EX-L is well set up for long trips with kids, getting decent highway mileage for a minivan, offering good in-cabin entertainment options, and keeping the driver informed with navigation.

Specs: van, Touring, Gas

Specs: van, SE, Gas

Specs: minivan, 1SA, Gas

Specs: van, SXT, Gas

Specs: van, LT, Gas