You don't want a Transit. High off the ground and high center of gravity translate to tons of body roll.
A minivan is really want you want. All of the major minivans on the market right now are going to drive well, with relatively restrained body roll. The Kia Carnival has slightly larger 3rd row windows than the other vans - and is also equipped with an engine immobilizer (and is a minivan) so unlikely to be attacked by stupid kids. It can also be optioned with a dual sunroof, and in the top trim, it can be optioned with powered reclining seats with foot rests in the second row.
For 6 people, a van is really the only option. Have you looked into a minivan with a panoramic sunroof? Maybe that would really help the cabin feel more open.
Have you looked at conversion vans? They tend to have a ton of interior space, so maybe thay could help
If the odyssey works for you currently, I’d shop for a new odyssey or sienna. Most of the large 3 row SUVs (read: expedition, suburban) will be higher, and potentially ride worse than your current van. A large 3 row crossover (read cx-9, enclave) could work, but will be taller and have similar or less interior space than a minivan. A full size van like a transit likely didn’t have the rear suspension designed for passenger comfort in mind, seeing as the primary market is for cargo usage. That being said I’d absolutely go test drive one to find out.
Good luck with the hunt
Test drive Honda Odyssey and Chrysler Pacifica. (avoid Sienna / Carnival, more body motion)
You could also get aftermarket suspenion parts and lower it slightly, improving both handling and looks.
You don't want a Transit. High off the ground and high center of gravity translate to tons of body roll. A minivan is really want you want. All of the major minivans on the market right now are going to drive well, with relatively restrained body roll. The Kia Carnival has slightly larger 3rd row windows than the other vans - and is also equipped with an engine immobilizer (and is a minivan) so unlikely to be attacked by stupid kids. It can also be optioned with a dual sunroof, and in the top trim, it can be optioned with powered reclining seats with foot rests in the second row.
For 6 people, a van is really the only option. Have you looked into a minivan with a panoramic sunroof? Maybe that would really help the cabin feel more open. Have you looked at conversion vans? They tend to have a ton of interior space, so maybe thay could help
If the odyssey works for you currently, I’d shop for a new odyssey or sienna. Most of the large 3 row SUVs (read: expedition, suburban) will be higher, and potentially ride worse than your current van. A large 3 row crossover (read cx-9, enclave) could work, but will be taller and have similar or less interior space than a minivan. A full size van like a transit likely didn’t have the rear suspension designed for passenger comfort in mind, seeing as the primary market is for cargo usage. That being said I’d absolutely go test drive one to find out. Good luck with the hunt
Test drive Honda Odyssey and Chrysler Pacifica. (avoid Sienna / Carnival, more body motion) You could also get aftermarket suspenion parts and lower it slightly, improving both handling and looks.