Best family-friendly commuter car

[midnight armadillo]

Ok, I've got my fingers crossed that I will get the job I interviewed for last week (a marathon 8 hour affair, but it was a very positive experience - the people there are friendly and smart).

This will entail a new (i.e. "new to me" used car) commuter car, since my 93 corolla is too small for family use with the new plus-size car seats and has a dodgy transmission.

I've got my eye on a used Saab 9000 since they're a) hatchbacks, b) possessed of a large back seat and c) fun to drive with the turbo 4 cyl and get good mileage. But...what are other good candidates?

I want to own the car for many years to come, so it should be able to handle 3 car seats across the back (or come close, booster seats are narrower), have a good trunk, get good mileage, and not cost an arm and a leg. None of the hybrids on the road fit the bill, and a diesel Jetta won't cut it so it's gotta be a good ole gas engine.

Any ideas?

[Maine-i-acs]

1. If you can handle a domestic model:

Ford Taurus Wagon

Mine seats three car seats across the back seat (a criterion for my purchase as well).

Good crash ratings, good gas milweage, cheap to repair

Wagon stores a lot of gear

Mine has 2 jump seats in the rear area to seat a total of 7-8 people in a pinch.

[demosincebirth]

2. Why not by an American made vehicle?

support unionized america.