There are two words, more than any other, that have taken on the stench of anathema to modern automotive consumers: "minivan" and "station wagon." After all, only our moms drove station wagons, and the minivan has become a punch-line for mid-life emasculation. It is to soften the stigma associated with such dedicated kid-movers that the auto industry brings us these popular seven-seater SUVs, all of which are arguably more stylish than any Country Squire.
Subaru Tribeca
The fact that this mid-sized crossover SUV gets its name from a trendy neighborhood in New York is perhaps the clearest sign of its mission. A 256 horsepower flat six-cylinder engine sends power humming through the Tribeca's excellent optional all-wheel-drive system, which is programmed to maximize traction on slippery city streets. Although the Tribeca has a plethora of airbags, its standard-equipment stability control and power-assisted anti-lock brakes should help ensure you never get to test the safety equipment.
Kia Borrego
Even Kia noticed that kids are expensive, which is why it offers the updated Borrego for our soccer-taxing pleasure. True to Kia's do-it-all philosophy, this seven-seater comes in nine different trim levels, costing $26,000 to $40,000, to make sure you get the best bang for your buck. Drivetrain choices include a 276-horsepower V6, and a 331-horsepower V8. Towing capacity blows every other SUV here out of the water, as even the V6 is rated to more than 5,000 lbs.
Mitsibishi Outlander
The family resemblance of the new for 2010 Outlander to its Evo cousin is both hard to miss and intentional. With a new front fascia, well-tuned suspension, optional 230-horsepower V6 engine and fantastic all-wheel-drive system, this little sport wagon/SUV does the rally family proud. Though a bit less powerful than some others in this segment, it's worth considering that the Outlander is known as a Lancer station wagon in Japan. It's car-light and nimble, and sure to please those who demand a little "sport" with their "utility."
Mazda CX-9
If the Outlander is a rally wagon, then the CX-9 is a tall sports car. Easily the most road-capable of this group, the CX-9 uses its Ford-sourced 273-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 to propel the one of the most capable on-road AWD systems in this segment. Suspension tuning similar to that in the Mazda Speed 3 gives this brute some small-car spirit. Steering feedback is quite good, as is brake feel and performance. The CX-9 is definitely the seven-seater for moms or dads with with a slightly wicked streak.
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