Can't get out of our "driveway" without one in snow or even heavy rain. We have a Dodge caravan but that thing is dangerous in inclement weather - no traction what so ever on back country roads (they oil the roads around here every year.)
I have a plymouth voyager (cousin of the caravan). They are front wheel drive. I don't understand how the writer can equate them as being better or just as good as the SUV.
I can't make it up hill in the snow with my mini van.
Have had many cars, but I *hated* the Caravan. Traded it in quicker than any other vehicle, after only three years. It drove like the tires were bald, which they weren't.
Chief reason I like my "cute ute" is that the back end is so convenient for loading. Also visibility, which makes me feel safer. And, I must admit, I hate minivan styling--made me feel old and washed-up.