[ColdGarden]

Extra clearance, more comfortable, more space. There are so many advantages. A few bucks in gas is totally worth it.

Another big one not mentioned yet is comfort from the perspective of the kids too. Not only is it easier to get babies in and out of the back (no more bending over), but my kids were never able to spend time in the smaller car for more than about 15 minutes. In the SUV they are happy, able to sleep, and don't complain nearly as much.

SUV's just make sense. Unless "handling" is really your top priority in a vehicle.