Inside the House of Baldwin

And it isn’t a Toyota Prius. I just couldn’t get myself to buy one. I think that in the end, the size bothered me. Although roomy inside, it’s too small outside. With driving children around on a daily basis, I would be too afraid of the consequences if we were hit by one of the many tanks on the road.

Plus, it would undermine the plan I have been patiently waiting to implement. Get a new family vehicle this year. Get Brad a new car next year. Retire the 8-year-old Honda next year to the first of three new teenage drivers within a span of four years (frightening, isn’t it?).

So what did I get? The vehicle that best meets our family’s needs (okay, “my green” needs): Four-wheel drive; Fit six people comfortably (including long-legged teenage boys); Smaller than a “tank”; Environmentally friendly; Reasonable fuel-efficiency; Exciting to drive; Well built.

What else is out there that meets all that criteria? Not much. And I love it! And so does my family. And in the end, that is all that matters.

BTW: Here is an article in Popular Mechanics about the future of diesel vehicles…move over hybrids, stiff competition is on it’s way. I’m just pleased that we’re on the cutting edge. Oh, I forgot one teensy bit of information…I can use biodiesel in it! And Mercedes even gave it’s blessing.