I was talking about my 4x4 project with my wife yesterday, and she comes up with this: "If the vehicle you buy can carry the kids, I'll sell the Passat and get a small car that costs less on gas for commuting." DAMMIT! This was not part of the plan.
She doesn't want to have to juggle two vehicles and parking - she'd rather have a small simple car for commuting and use the 4x4 for everything else. My wife is a very practical person and, of course, she's right about this...
We only have limited street parking available - no driveway or garage - and in the winter there are parking restrictions in the street every day of the week. Monthly parking costs $50 - $80 per month in our neighbourhood. I could park in the backyard via the alleyway but it's not the most convenient option because a vehicle would consume a good portion of our small back yard.
I don't want to get rid of the Passat. It's paid for, comfortable, quiet, and turbo-powered. But it also requires premium fuel and isn't as easy to park as a Civic or a Fit, or some other more basic mode of transportation. Why can't I have my cake and eat it, too?
UPDATE: In case it's not entirely clear, I'm spoiled and being petulant.