[8695Beaters]

The current V6 also uses cylinder deactivation which allows the engine to run on 3 cylinders when the engine is not under load. Basically when you are crusiing down the highway, you are driving an inline-3, not a V6.

As far as I know, nobody builds minivans in manual because 90% of the buyers would choose auto. It's just the market. The Dodge Viper comes in only manual because 90% of the buyers would choose that anyway.

Unless you absolutely need 7 seats, buy an old Accord wagon. They built them up through at least 1997, maybe later. A well-cared for 1997 Accord will give you plenty of space and as a four-cylinder will get you great gas mileage. However, if you really want to downsize, buy a 1996-2000 Civic hatchback. Tiny, plenty of room, and even better mileage.

If you want something brand new, I would reccomend the Fit. It gets really good gas mileage, handles well, and is surprisingly peppy for having an engine that is so small. Small car safety has also improved greatly in the last few years. Honda did a good job of managing space, so it is surprisingly roomy. Check one out before you write it off as too small.

If you don't mind me asking, why do you need a minivan? Many people who buy minivans (and also SUVs and trucks) buy them because they think they need the space. My family has never owned a pickup, SUV, or minivan. The number of times we have needed one can be counted on one hand. We have always had Integras, Accords, and my dad currently drives a Toyota Matrix. We have gone camping, hauled lumber, repaired houses, gardened, and done everything a van can do while saving money on initial cost, gas, and repairs. Yesm they are a bit more cramped, but if you don't mind that, a good hatchback can do just as much as a minivan, while being much more economical, and without the stigmata of a minivan. Just think about that when you are out shopping.