I absolutely agree with Cookie2. You should never make your financial situation more strained when you're getting ready to ditch an income. If you NEED a new vehicle (man, do we all have trouble telling the difference between "wants" and "needs" sometimes!!), a sedan would still be cheaper than an SUV or minian in most cases, or so I've found. And, imo, after researching the advice of many financial gurus, I'd say NEVER get a NEW new car. Make sure it's reliable, but "new" is never smart unless you've got the money to throw away on it.

I currently drive an Alero, and I like it just fine. I'm thinking about a station wagon, but only if it's something that costs less than what I drive now (to make $$ off of the deal!). All in all, tho, a 4-door midsized car should be large enough for most 4-person families.