Audi Q7 - Happy Driver, Happy Family

I don't want to admit it, but the phrase "Happy Mom, Happy Family" is, in fact, true. I don't want to admit that my mood swings (which can shift with the wind) affect my family. As our kids get older, I get smarter -- or less stubborn -- and I can now admit that most of the familial happiness revolves around me. I also never wanted to admit that I'm a control freak, but I am. I'll let my husband be in charge of the car radio when he drives, but God save him if he reaches for the dial when I'm driving. Maybe my car's vanity plates should read "Scorpio" instead of "CarMama." 

This List Goes to 11: Top 11 Family Sedans & Wagons

Here is my list of the top 11 family sedans and wagons you should drive if you're one who likes 4 manual doors (vs. the sliding doors of a minivan). I tried for the Top 5, then the Top 10, but had to add a Hybrid option. So now my list goes to 11.

2010 Lexus RX 450h AWD - Safe Luxury for the Family

2010 Lexus RX 450h

There is one benefit of having your car die: you get to drive a new car. Well, not always, but I was lucky this time. When my 2001 Lexus RX 300 AWD needed a new transmission I took it to the local dealer to be fixed and they loaned me a 2010 RX 450h AWD for 2 weeks. This loaner sure beat the 1998 Toyota Camry I got as a loaner from the tire place last year -- I actually had to roll the windows up and down manually!

Car Mama's Top 6 Minivans to Test Drive

If you're in the market for a minivan, my top 6 to test drive (in order) are:

1. Honda Odyssey (reviewed in October 2010)
2. Toyota Sienna (reviewed in November 2010)
3. Nissan Quest (review of 2011)
4. Kia Sedona 
5. Volkswagen Routan (reviewed in November 2010)
6. Dodge Grand Caravan 

2010 Ford Flex SEL - Not the Minivan Type? Try The Flex.

I'm the first to admit that I've never wanted to own a minivan. I like the creature comforts and space of a minivan, but I don't want something that screams "Mom Car" just like I don't want someone pointing at me and yelling, "Mom Jeans!" Yes, I know it's silly and sounds snobby, but I'm a car nut and my car desires are not always practical.