We've been talking about getting a new car in the next year for a more family-like car (DH and I both drive average sized sedans). There was no urgency to it because we have plenty of time.
We took my car to the shop today because it's been skidding more, and it sounds like they need to do a bunch of repairs, including replacing the entire rear brake system (!). The whole thing will cost about $1,200, which is not worth it for a 9 year old car that we were thinking of replacing anyway. DH and I decided we'd spend the month test driving and probably do it at the end of the month.
I'm both excited to get a new car and dreading the entire process. If anyone recommends their family-friendly car, pass along your suggestions! If it helps, we don't plan to have more than 2 kids, but I may be open to a mini-van (I have to drive one first and see what I think).
Re: Looks like we're getting a new car sooner than expected...
we loooove our Subaru Forester and I've heard good things about the new Outbacks, too. I like the new models--they look less station-wagonish (although I do like station wagons because I'm a dork like that, lol).
good luck finding something you like!
I really like the Toyota Highlander hybrid. Mind you, I've never test-driven one... I'm basing this solely on looks.
As far as minivans go, I like the looks of the Nissan and the VW.
We have one and I lurve it! My biggest complaint is the middle seat in the 2nd row is really narrow. I've sat in it and it's not terrible for a short ride, but I'm pretty petite. It's impossible however, to put a car seat in that middle spot, so you're forced to put it on one side or the other (and behind passenger seat makes it more difficult to get to the 3rd row seating since that's the side that has the pull forward seat to access.
I get why they did it (middle "seat" can be removed and it leaves 2 bucket type seats in the 2nd row like a minivan set up) but if they ever revamped it in newer models I'd totally trade mine in.