Advantages of a van over a classic sedan

Although vans have a bit of a reputation for being boring, there are a lot of things that make them worthy of consideration when you are looking for your next vehicle. Depending on where it's bought and driven, it could be called a multipurpose vehicle, people carrier, or people mover; they're generally taller than the average station wagon or hatchback. Passenger vans are designed to provide ample room for passengers, but also plenty of room for cargo.

The biggest advantage of a van over a sedan is its ease of access. Most have a relatively low step height, but the interior is higher up than most passenger cars, meaning that most people can almost stand up inside in order to get to the second and third-row seats. Some vans even have captain's chairs (individual seating) for the driver and front-seat passengers. Most vans have some cargo room behind the third seat, and on some models, the rear seat can be removed entirely, folded flat, or moved forward.

Another big advantage of the van is the number of passengers it can carry. Most can carry seven or eight passengers and the driver, and because of the position of the engine and other design elements, driver foot space is limited. Rear passengers can often enjoy separate sound and climate control systems, making van travel enjoyable for all involved. The rear passenger compartment has plenty of foot room due to the upright positioning of the seats.

Since vans are geared toward families, it's of utmost importance that they are safe. Different countries of course have different safety standards and requirements; the best among those test for rear, side and frontal impact resistance. Fuel mileage is another important consideration, and most vans average out at around twenty miles per gallon. Fuel quality and efficiency standards can affect an individual vehicle's rating.

Most people don't choose vans for their appearance, but they have come a long, long way from the boxy appearance of the very first models. Vans of today can carry a family in comfort, with ample room for cargo and luggage in the rear compartment. Fuel and safety ratings are outstanding and dual climate and entertainment controls allow for greater passenger comfort- features just not found in most classic sedans.