My wife and I bought the Astro 2 years ago when she said that my 1973 3/4 ton truck had to go. At the time we were newlyweds with 3 large dogs and looking to have a kid also.  So I looked around and determined that the Astro AWD would be the safest and most logical alternative, especially considering the sheer amount of precipitation up here in the North West.  I have never had a problem in 2 years!  It can haul a ton of brick or upto 8 people.  We have often been designated as the vehicle of choice for that reason amongst our group of friends.  We even take the van to the Drive In and take the seats out, put them behind the van with the dutch doors open and use the back seats as a couch and bed for the dogs.