Every kid wants a cool dad who owns (and knows how to use) the latest gadgets, speaks the same “childish” lingo and listens to popular music. Even a ride in the seven-seater MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) driven by a cool dad feels like a funky family outing every time.
With its sleek estate-like styling (recently facelifted), the Odyssey has always tried to attract trendy dads. Honda’s ever-popular MPV has also been given fresh eco-friendly features and an upgraded interior that utilises better materials than before.
Showcasing both zoom-zoom and “room-room” is the Mazda 8, which can carry up to, yes, eight people. This car’s luxurious outlook, well-equipped cabin and versatile seating should appeal to the head of the household who wants everything but the kitchen sink.
Taking families to inner space is the Galaxy. Ford’s “inter-galactic” transporter is not only larger than the others but faster, too, thanks to its turbocharged engine. This is just the ticket for busy fathers who are always in a hurry to bring their brood somewhere.
So, which of these interesting MPVs is the ideal chariot for a cool dad?
GALAXY – Has the most generous headroom plus the best forward and lateral visibility, because of the tall roofline and expansive windscreen. Neat and unique touches include an auto-dimming rear view mirror and an aircraft-style parking brake.
8 – Less spacious than the rest, but has the classiest feel courtesy of premium features such as keyless entry/start and convenient buttons for the powered tailgate and doors.
ODYSSEY – Most car-like cockpit of the group, complete with plush seats and the widest footrest, is most welcome on long drives, but the dashboard’s brittle plastics affect the perception of quality.
