Latest news with #minivan
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
I'm a Mechanic: 5 Affordable Family Cars That Don't Break Down as Much
Need to trade in your coupe for a minivan or SUV as your family grows? You'll want something reliable and preferably approved by someone who knows a thing or two about cars. Learn More: For You: If you need a highly reliable family vehicle that won't break the bank, start with these models recommended by mechanics and auto repair experts. Toyota RAV4 New Models Start At: $30,645 (Kelley Blue Book) Toyota and its luxury brand Lexus rank second and third among the most reliable car manufacturers, according to the 2025 Consumer Reports study. For decades, Toyota's top priority has remained dependability. 'The RAV4 is highly reliable, especially in model years 2019-2023 which had simpler electronic systems,' explained Marc Skirvin, cofounder of Cash Auto Salvage. 'Parts are readily available, and servicing is cheap, with independent mechanics being able to work on these vehicles without expensive diagnostic tools.' I Bought a Hybrid Car: Honda CR-V New Models Start At: $31,495 One of the prime competitors of the RAV4 as a compact SUV is Honda's CR-V. Skirvin especially likes model years 2017-2022 for reliability. 'Our salvage operations yield a high reliability on Honda CR-V models, where less than 5% end up having engine or transmission issues,' he said. 'When CR-Vs show up in our yard, they're usually the result of collision or flood damage, not mechanical issues we find with other brands.' Honda Odyssey New Models Start At: $43,670 Looking for a minivan with three rows of seats? The Honda Odyssey remains a perennial favorite among mechanics. Alan Gelfand, mechanic and owner of German Car Depot, raved about the Odyssey's spacious interior and reliability. 'The Variable Cylinder Management system in the 3.5-liter V6 engine provides high fuel efficiency without compromising on reliability standards,' he explained. 'The sliding door tracks of this vehicle and its belt-driven accessories have proven to be long-lasting and avoid sudden trips to the repair shop.' Toyota Sienna New Models Start At: $40,635 Landing on Kelley Blue Book's list of Best Family Cars, the Sienna offers another great option for a three-seat minivan. It doesn't hurt that the starting price clocks in $3,000 lower than the Odyssey. 'The Sienna offers a hybrid model which provides excellent fuel efficiency alongside the typical Toyota durability standards,' added Gelfand. 'The e-CVT transmission features a sealed design that requires no maintenance because it does not leak.' The minimal height step entrance helps families hop in, and the foldable flat seats simplify hauling both sports equipment and bulky furniture. Hyundai Palisade New Models Start At: $38,695 Prefer a three-row SUV rather than a minivan? Try the Hyundai Palisade. It, too, scored a slot on Kelley Blue Book's list of Best Family Cars. 'The Palisade has gained a reputation for reliability based on its dependable first-year performance and long warranty,' noted Andrew Franks, cofounder of accident management service Claimsline. 'It has a highly equipped interior with advanced technology and safety features.' More From GOBankingRates Mark Cuban Warns of 'Red Rural Recession' -- 4 States That Could Get Hit Hard 6 Big Shakeups Coming to Social Security in 2025 These Cars May Seem Expensive, but They Rarely Need Repairs This article originally appeared on I'm a Mechanic: 5 Affordable Family Cars That Don't Break Down as Much
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
I'm a Mechanic: 5 Affordable Family Cars That Don't Break Down as Much
Need to trade in your coupe for a minivan or SUV as your family grows? You'll want something reliable and preferably approved by someone who knows a thing or two about cars. Learn More: For You: If you need a highly reliable family vehicle that won't break the bank, start with these models recommended by mechanics and auto repair experts. Toyota RAV4 New Models Start At: $30,645 (Kelley Blue Book) Toyota and its luxury brand Lexus rank second and third among the most reliable car manufacturers, according to the 2025 Consumer Reports study. For decades, Toyota's top priority has remained dependability. 'The RAV4 is highly reliable, especially in model years 2019-2023 which had simpler electronic systems,' explained Marc Skirvin, cofounder of Cash Auto Salvage. 'Parts are readily available, and servicing is cheap, with independent mechanics being able to work on these vehicles without expensive diagnostic tools.' I Bought a Hybrid Car: Honda CR-V New Models Start At: $31,495 One of the prime competitors of the RAV4 as a compact SUV is Honda's CR-V. Skirvin especially likes model years 2017-2022 for reliability. 'Our salvage operations yield a high reliability on Honda CR-V models, where less than 5% end up having engine or transmission issues,' he said. 'When CR-Vs show up in our yard, they're usually the result of collision or flood damage, not mechanical issues we find with other brands.' Honda Odyssey New Models Start At: $43,670 Looking for a minivan with three rows of seats? The Honda Odyssey remains a perennial favorite among mechanics. Alan Gelfand, mechanic and owner of German Car Depot, raved about the Odyssey's spacious interior and reliability. 'The Variable Cylinder Management system in the 3.5-liter V6 engine provides high fuel efficiency without compromising on reliability standards,' he explained. 'The sliding door tracks of this vehicle and its belt-driven accessories have proven to be long-lasting and avoid sudden trips to the repair shop.' Toyota Sienna New Models Start At: $40,635 Landing on Kelley Blue Book's list of Best Family Cars, the Sienna offers another great option for a three-seat minivan. It doesn't hurt that the starting price clocks in $3,000 lower than the Odyssey. 'The Sienna offers a hybrid model which provides excellent fuel efficiency alongside the typical Toyota durability standards,' added Gelfand. 'The e-CVT transmission features a sealed design that requires no maintenance because it does not leak.' The minimal height step entrance helps families hop in, and the foldable flat seats simplify hauling both sports equipment and bulky furniture. Hyundai Palisade New Models Start At: $38,695 Prefer a three-row SUV rather than a minivan? Try the Hyundai Palisade. It, too, scored a slot on Kelley Blue Book's list of Best Family Cars. 'The Palisade has gained a reputation for reliability based on its dependable first-year performance and long warranty,' noted Andrew Franks, cofounder of accident management service Claimsline. 'It has a highly equipped interior with advanced technology and safety features.' More From GOBankingRates Mark Cuban Warns of 'Red Rural Recession' -- 4 States That Could Get Hit Hard 6 Big Shakeups Coming to Social Security in 2025 These Cars May Seem Expensive, but They Rarely Need Repairs This article originally appeared on I'm a Mechanic: 5 Affordable Family Cars That Don't Break Down as Much
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
I'm a Mechanic: 5 Affordable Family Cars That Don't Break Down as Much
Need to trade in your coupe for a minivan or SUV as your family grows? You'll want something reliable and preferably approved by someone who knows a thing or two about cars. Learn More: For You: If you need a highly reliable family vehicle that won't break the bank, start with these models recommended by mechanics and auto repair experts. Toyota RAV4 New Models Start At: $30,645 (Kelley Blue Book) Toyota and its luxury brand Lexus rank second and third among the most reliable car manufacturers, according to the 2025 Consumer Reports study. For decades, Toyota's top priority has remained dependability. 'The RAV4 is highly reliable, especially in model years 2019-2023 which had simpler electronic systems,' explained Marc Skirvin, cofounder of Cash Auto Salvage. 'Parts are readily available, and servicing is cheap, with independent mechanics being able to work on these vehicles without expensive diagnostic tools.' I Bought a Hybrid Car: Honda CR-V New Models Start At: $31,495 One of the prime competitors of the RAV4 as a compact SUV is Honda's CR-V. Skirvin especially likes model years 2017-2022 for reliability. 'Our salvage operations yield a high reliability on Honda CR-V models, where less than 5% end up having engine or transmission issues,' he said. 'When CR-Vs show up in our yard, they're usually the result of collision or flood damage, not mechanical issues we find with other brands.' Honda Odyssey New Models Start At: $43,670 Looking for a minivan with three rows of seats? The Honda Odyssey remains a perennial favorite among mechanics. Alan Gelfand, mechanic and owner of German Car Depot, raved about the Odyssey's spacious interior and reliability. 'The Variable Cylinder Management system in the 3.5-liter V6 engine provides high fuel efficiency without compromising on reliability standards,' he explained. 'The sliding door tracks of this vehicle and its belt-driven accessories have proven to be long-lasting and avoid sudden trips to the repair shop.' Toyota Sienna New Models Start At: $40,635 Landing on Kelley Blue Book's list of Best Family Cars, the Sienna offers another great option for a three-seat minivan. It doesn't hurt that the starting price clocks in $3,000 lower than the Odyssey. 'The Sienna offers a hybrid model which provides excellent fuel efficiency alongside the typical Toyota durability standards,' added Gelfand. 'The e-CVT transmission features a sealed design that requires no maintenance because it does not leak.' The minimal height step entrance helps families hop in, and the foldable flat seats simplify hauling both sports equipment and bulky furniture. Hyundai Palisade New Models Start At: $38,695 Prefer a three-row SUV rather than a minivan? Try the Hyundai Palisade. It, too, scored a slot on Kelley Blue Book's list of Best Family Cars. 'The Palisade has gained a reputation for reliability based on its dependable first-year performance and long warranty,' noted Andrew Franks, cofounder of accident management service Claimsline. 'It has a highly equipped interior with advanced technology and safety features.' More From GOBankingRates Mark Cuban Warns of 'Red Rural Recession' -- 4 States That Could Get Hit Hard These Cars May Seem Expensive, but They Rarely Need Repairs How Much Money Is Needed To Be Considered Middle Class in Your State? This article originally appeared on I'm a Mechanic: 5 Affordable Family Cars That Don't Break Down as Much
Car and Driver
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
These 7 New Family Cars Will Hit the Market Within the Next Year
While a few minivans still remain on sale, the SUV has supplanted the minivan as the de facto American family car. There are dozens of models to choose from, but if you're in the market for a new car to haul the kids to school, carry their baseball equipment to tournaments, and embark on memory-making road trips, you might want to hold off for a little bit, as a host of new family-friendly SUVs are set to go on sale within the next year. From the hybrid-only 2026 Toyota RAV4 to the glamorous three-row 2026 Hyundai Palisade, there will be plenty of fresh rides to pick from in the coming months. Scroll through for details.
Daily Mail
23-07-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Mail
I tested the car built for iPad babies... here's how it sparked a parenting war
I spent a week in a high-tech minivan with Netflix included. Each time friends got in the back seat, it sparked a parenting debate over whether a built-in touchscreen is genius or a gateway to iPad addiction. I tested the surprisingly high-rolling 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid SX Prestige, a $59,000 minivan equipped with a rear-seat entertainment package. That add-on includes two power-operated captain's chairs, complete with leg rests, that face matching 14.6-inch digital displays. Passengers in the second row can access streaming services, mirror their phones, play video games, and pair Bluetooth headphones for a personal theater experience — effectively spelling the end for my favorite childhood road trip classics like Mad Libs, The Alphabet Game, and 'I spy with my little eye...' 'This would be so nice on long trips just to shush my children,' a friend with a five and a and three-year-old, who shall remain unnamed, told me while riding in the car. But not everyone was sold. 'I don't want to encourage my children to be iPad babies,' another friend and could-be parent said. The entertainment package on the Carnival Hybrid is a parenting Rorschach test, separating the digital skeptics from the tech optimists. But while the backseat screens captured the topline conversations, the rest of the car kept the plot moving. Kia has built a highly competent minivan. Minivan with muscle? Kia has come a long way from its humble beginnings as a budget-oriented brand. For years, the Korean company built simple cars and slapped them with robust, 10-year, 100,000-mile warranties. Now, the carmaker's contemporary Kia lineup has a distinctive, modern design flair, and the Carnival is a great example. An upright, SUV-inspired shape and truck-like grille give the front a muscular edge that is not often found in the minivan segment. That ruggedness falls apart on the side and back, where modern design aesthetics pull the van in different directions. The giant rear window and understated liftgate is a departure from the rest of the van's muscular vibe Sharp LED accents — including a jagged headlight design, and a full-width rear light bar — complete the look. Aside from its somewhat disjointed design, the van at least attempts to be interesting. In this segment, that is worth noting. Hybrid power doesn't drag Much like the gas-sipping, surprisingly agile hybrids from Kia's Asian carmaking counterparts (like Toyota and Honda), the Carnival Hybrid's powertrain felt composed in city driving. Kia's hybrid powerhouse is a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 72-horsepower electric motor. The hybrid system delivers a combined 242 horsepower that won't smoke a sports car off the line, but feels plenty powerful to get to highway speeds on a short ramp. And it builds that power efficiently. According to the EPA, the Carnival Hybrid achieves a combined fuel economy of 33 mpg, with 34 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. I averaged about 35 mpg in mostly stop-and-go New York driving, which is excellent for something that can haul seven passengers and a Costco haul. The Carnival has a camera package that allows parents to view the back of the car through the infotainment system Tech gadgets, galore Kia didn't forget about entertaining the parents. The van also features technology for helicopter parents among us. In the top trim, the first row is equipped with dual 12.3-inch displays that span the dash. Inside those screens, drivers can access wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as voice-activated controls, a speaker for the back row, and rear-seat monitoring cameras. Underneath the screens are a series of haptic and digital buttons that control the climate. Kia's digital climate controls have always been well-organized. Normally, I'm wildly skeptical of cars forgoing buttons for temperature controls, but this layout is easy to use. Look at the comment section on any story about digital buttons, and you will find a slew of people who disagree. To each their own. The van's tech includes a series of dials and digital controls underneath the infotainment system Value: Is it worth it? The base Carnival Hybrid LXS starts at $40,990, while the non-hybrid model kicks off at $36,990. My top-trim SX Prestige tester, decked out with optional wheels, special paint, a second-row sunroof, and the all-important screen package, totaled just over $59,000. That's serious money, but it's also great value in a segment with bloated and ballooning prices. Toyota's Sienna starts at $44,295 (it is only available as a hybrid for 2025), while Honda's Odyssey requires a minimum of $42,220 and doesn't offer a hybrid option. Final thoughts Many of my formative years were spent in the backseat of a car, watching vehicles pass by and memorizing their makes and models. Who would I have become had my parents swapped the entertainment of my imagination with the relational guidance of Bluey and Peppa Pig? Who knows. While (unintentionally) highlighting divides in our digital appetites, the Carnival Hybrid also makes a compelling case for the future of American family road trips. Many owners will just have to remember to pack the Wi-Fi hotspot.
