M.P.
I just helped my mother buy a little car. There are two websites I would recommend that make the decision and buying process much much easier.
the first one is Yahoo autos.... because you can choose the things that are important to you and then a list will come out... example... I want a car with three rows, seating from 6 to 7 people or seating 8.... you choose gas consumption, etc... so it really helps. They also have very complete reviews.
The other one is http://www.thecarconnection.com/new-cars It will tell you the right price to pay. That way you already know who is giving you the right price from the beginning. All this information helps to make the buying process much much easier.
In a personal note, I will be looking to buy a new Mazda 9.
Good luck!