[masterzapper]

The boot space in the F31 will come in handy. I've managed to put 4 full size 19 inch wheels/tires in the back. The roof height is also perfect for loading up a cargo carrier or bike rack.

The only caution I have is to research car seat compatibility. The rear seats are very slanted and make it difficult to connect to the mounting points.

[japanwings]

Well i had a F31 before, now a F36 and i use it as a familly car ( 4 kids )
The F36 is much more practical, the trunk is not as high inside as the F31 but F36 is deeper.
I could get all in it what i needed, including large ikea stuff, wheelchair and a 65" tv.

[waltdeuce]

I agree with below. But I'm also biased. The F31 is the last wagon that will be coming to US. So in a way, the F31 is rare, and I have one of them.
There are plenty of sedans out there. I didn't want another sedan. F36= a million to one, F31 = one in a million. I chose the latter.

Originally Posted by alohasurftoad

if you tend to keep your cars awhile, F31

otherwise F36 for the time being, for yourself. as your child gets older or you have more children you'll make the switch to a wagon, suv, or van. your mentality will have evolved from what you want to what's practical during this time.

[Juice247]

+1 for F36. Sporty, sleek and uber useful. I haul all sorts of stuff in mine, from 4 full grown adults to TVs, racks and installation gear. Plus, since so few people know the GC exists, it is typically cheaper in the used market.

Most people assume it is a sedan, but when the hatch goes up, there is so much accessibility to the entire trunk.

[MSCD]

I find my F31 very versatile. Like others mentioned the rear window opening is a game changer for long trips. Big fan of the GC too, think is should have been the way the sedan could have been!

[Onizukachan]

I have a 4 year old and 14 amd 18 so I’ve been thru this 3 times.

Wagon over hatchback all day everyday.

Why?
Stroller, play pen, etc are easy to load and fit in wagons easily. And as they get older things like bikes etc do too.

Loads of room for that first pack half the house trip to grandmas. (After that first one you tend to pack less, unless your wife, like mine, packs two outfits per day for herself and 3-4 per dime for the child.

Also find that wives have an easier time loading the wagon (is big and open like an SUV) vs a hatchback.

The separate glass is something that is useful in the oddest ways, like setting bread atop the cargo cover, or reaching in to grab a small bag, but soemth8ng you miss when driving a car where you have to open the whole power hatch for something you could have grabbed in 3 seconds thru the glass.

In the end what is right for me and my family might not be right for you… but you won’t regret buying an f31. Even when driving solo.

[Hristev]

Originally Posted by Billfitz

F31 over F36 as a family car, F34 over both as a family car.

Gotta agree on this one!

[wilbur_the_goose]

Don't forget the F34 (GT). I love mine.

[renoX]

I own a 440i as a family car and I'm verry happy with it, the 60/40 split folding rear seats are a relief for the luggage