Vehicle without a center console?

[sam_gordon]

Thank you HM. I think most of my cars have had the center console, so I just couldn't figure out where the leg room issue came into play.

 

[HM]

You're welcome. It is a hard thing to explain.
I just have noticed more and more cars are going to this whole cockpit kind of set-up and I can't find any cars that offer that space I want anymore. (I only buy new, not used). I just don't really want a van again and since I've got time to look around, I'm looking for advice.

 

[slo]

One of the things I really love about my Honda Odyssey is the space in the front for legs. I love that there is no console running between the seats and taking up space in the legroom area. However, in the next two years, I'm looking at getting a new vehicle and really don't want another van. I want better gas mileage and something a bit more fun feeling. Just looking around, it seems like all cars today have a console splitting the front area up and making two distinct spaces. To me that feels so confining. And where do I put my purse? I really want to find something that doesn't have that. Anyone have a new model vehicle that doesn't have that?

OMG.....did I write this and disquise myself as you - LOL!!

I love mini vans for the same reason.
I got rid on my van 2 years ago and got an Explorer, and hated it for all the reasons you gave.
I just recently traded in the Explorer and went back to the mini van, and I feel like I can breath again.
I hated being so confined, but I know when my kids are older and I don't need the van anymore I'm going to have to suck it up and deal with it.
I don't want a van for life - LOL!!!

 

[HM]

OMG.....did I write this and disquise myself as you - LOL!!

I love mini vans for the same reason.
I got rid on my van 2 years ago and got an Explorer, and hated it for all the reasons you gave.
I just recently traded in the Explorer and went back to the mini van, and I feel like I can breath again.
I hated being so confined, but I know when my kids are older and I don't need the van anymore I'm going to have to suck it up and deal with it.
I don't want a van for life - LOL!!!

Someone needs to design a car for the van lover who no longer wants a van. My kids are nearly 22 and 20 now and a possible two more years of lugging stuff to college in the van for them, plus a couple family road trips will keep me in the van a bit longer. Maybe a new car design will pop up next year? I can only hope.

 

[FofMM]

We recently rented a 2015 Chrysler 200 Sedan. It has a console but has a huge cubby, open from both sides, under it. We kept things out of sight but within reach using it. I have learned they offer this car in all wheel drive too. Also the armrest slide back to give more room.

 

[jrmasm]

You're welcome. It is a hard thing to explain.
I just have noticed more and more cars are going to this whole cockpit kind of set-up and I can't find any cars that offer that space I want anymore. (I only buy new, not used). I just don't really want a van again and since I've got time to look around, I'm looking for advice.

I know exactly what you're talking about. It's claustrophobic.

 

[kirstenb1]

I have a 2014 Explorer. There is so much space between the driver and the door (way too much) I wish there were a purse holder there!!

 

[Luv Bunnies]

I drove a Mazda MPV minivan for 10 years. It didn't have a center console, and I always put my purse next to me, between the seats. Even when my boys were old enough to start riding up front, a spot for my purse was never an issue. Like you, I wanted to trade in the van for something a little more fun. I needed something that would still be comfortable for carpool passengers, and have enough space in the back for the costume bags and backpacks that the kids need to bring (my carpools are always for theater kids!). I looked at lots of mid-sized SUVs, and chose a KIA Sorento. I love it, except for the fact that I have no where to put my purse! When my very tall DS is up front, and three of his friends are sitting across the back seat, my purse is the odd man out. I end up putting it on the floor by DS's feet, and it has to share a spot with his backpack. I was driving a high school carpool on my way to work last year with DS and two other boys. I would usually put my lunch bag and anything else I was taking to work in the cargo area, but I like to have my purse close by. It's a hassle, but I still like the car!

 

[Roadcat]

Oh my goodness, it is not just meeee!!!!! I understand some cars having the center console. But why do they have to make ALL cars with it? Can't they manufacture a variety for people to chose what they prefer? I too would like an open space between the two front seats. Room there for a book bag, purse, box of tissues, garbage. Right now I put my purse/bag in the passenger seat. Whenever I stop short it slides off the leather seats and onto the floor spilling contents. Or if I go around a tight corner my bag and contents end up in the passenger door! It is really aggravating. When going through tollbooths or drive-through I have to reach far for the wallet etc. If I am riding with a passenger I do not have enough room for the purse at their feet or to my left. I carry a tote/book bag type of bag because I have children and always need to carry essentials. What to do? I also don't want a mini van. I thought I had found the answer to my prayers when I saw the Honda CRV consoles. Models dating back before 2010 all have an open format. Then BAM in 2010 they sealed up the space!! This was going to be my answer. We need to petition to the manufacturers! I guess the Toyota Prius has that pass-through console which is better than nothing, however it is a small car. Was looking for an SUV with this space!

Honda CRV 2009:


Toyota Prius V Miranda Del Ray:

2012 Model

 

[AppleDumpling]

Although this thread is from last year, it's an interesting topic I can totally relate to. The issue of having no good place for a purse has bugged me for years! If I'm driving with a passenger up front with me, I put it on the floor, either behind my seat or on the other side of the console next to my passenger's feet. Neither one is ideal.

Last time I had a car with no middle console was probably about 20 years ago when I had a full size sedan with the old-style split bench seat.

The car manufacturers could use some female engineers to address this design issue. Even a hook somewhere would be helpful. I also prefer not being boxed in but have gotten so used to it now. How about a console that folds down or slides out of the way?

 

[JaxDad]

Slightly off-topic but I think it's funny how many people get mini-vans so reluctantly, then look forward to getting a "real" vehicle as soon as the kids reach some undetermined age. I know--I'm one of them!

But I've decided to embrace the mini-van! It is so stinking practical. My kids love it--they have captain's seats with a DVD player. I love all the automatic opening doors. There's plenty of room. I have all the bells and whistles. It's safe. It's easy to pack and holds so much. It's great for the dog. Mine has been reliable and the mileage is decent. And most of all, I am slowly accepting the fact that I am just not cool anymore, so I don't need a "cool" car!

 

[pryncess527]

Stickshifts and safetybelts
Bucket seats have all got to go
When were driving in the car
It makes my baby seem so far

I need you here with me
Not way over in a bucket seat
I need you to be here with me
Not way over in a bucket seat

But when were driving in my Malibu
Its easy to get right next to you
I say, "Baby, scoot over, please"
And then shes right there next to me

This thread make anyone else think of the Cake song?

 

[Gumbo4x4]

Slightly off-topic but I think it's funny how many people get mini-vans so reluctantly, then look forward to getting a "real" vehicle as soon as the kids reach some undetermined age. I know--I'm one of them!

But I've decided to embrace the mini-van! It is so stinking practical. My kids love it--they have captain's seats with a DVD player. I love all the automatic opening doors. There's plenty of room. I have all the bells and whistles. It's safe. It's easy to pack and holds so much. It's great for the dog. Mine has been reliable and the mileage is decent. And most of all, I am slowly accepting the fact that I am just not cool anymore, so I don't need a "cool" car!

My parents got rid of theirs because they got tired of getting stuck with driving duties all the time - hey, we can all fit in one if you drive! LOL

 

[powellrj]

Stickshifts and safetybelts
Bucket seats have all got to go
When were driving in the car
It makes my baby seem so far

I need you here with me
Not way over in a bucket seat
I need you to be here with me
Not way over in a bucket seat

But when were driving in my Malibu
Its easy to get right next to you
I say, "Baby, scoot over, please"
And then shes right there next to me

This thread make anyone else think of the Cake song?

I have never heard that song before! I will say that when DH and I started dating he drove a Malibu and I could scoot over next to him! My DS just bought an old standard shift beater truck and his girlfriend sits next to him too!

While I haven't looked for a new car lately, I don't drive anymore, back when I was looking, you could get a standard transmission car without a console. Like I said, don't know if it still hold true and most women don't like a standard transmission.

 

[NHdisneylover]

and most women don't like a standard transmission.

Really? what makes you say that?
I had no idea there was a transmission gender bias (I prefer standard and an a woman)

 

[powellrj]

Really? what makes you say that?
I had no idea there was a transmission gender bias (I prefer standard and an a woman)

I always liked a standard transmission too, but my friends always said it was hard to shift in heels. I never wore them so I don't know if its true or not.

 

[Squirlz]

Really? what makes you say that?
I had no idea there was a transmission gender bias (I prefer standard and an a woman)

Both of my Wife's cars are standard, as are both of mine. Wouldn't have it any other way.

 

[justgrace]

I didn't realize that some cars didn't have a connecting console. I think that would make me a little uncomfortable. I would be worried about objects on the ground (a loose water bottle) sliding around and ending up near my feet while I'm driving. I guess I like being more "confined" in the drivers seat. It helps me feel more in control of the vehicle for whatever reason.

 

[xlxo]

But I've decided to embrace the mini-van! It is so stinking practical. My kids love it--they have captain's seats with a DVD player. I love all the automatic opening doors. There's plenty of room. I have all the bells and whistles. It's safe. It's easy to pack and holds so much. It's great for the dog. Mine has been reliable and the mileage is decent. And most of all, I am slowly accepting the fact that I am just not cool anymore, so I don't need a "cool" car!

Do you think some paint and body moldings would give new life to your minivan?
https://www.google.ca/search?q=pimp+my+minivan&tbm=isch

I love minivan's for cargo capacity when moving bikes or just hauling people.... the flexibility is great.... fuel economy not so. Recently got a Prius V. Perhaps that's why SUV's are so popular..... you can be kewl and still be able to haul people/stuff.

 

[GaSleepingBeautyFan]

I love the center console. I have a 2008 Toyota Highlander. I put my little purse up near the arm rest and usually have a bottle of water in the first cup holder that holds the purse in place when I'm in the vehicle by myself.
When my husband is with me, he doesn't like me doing that for some reason - I don't know why. Maybe he's afraid it will fall into the drivers side floor and interfere with the gas and brake pedals?
I've never had that happen though and I bought the vehicle brand new in Jan. 2008.

I don't like alot of the consoles on the newer vehicles either.