Mini-van for bicycle I realize this is on the edge of asking for a "product recommendation", and is also likely to be viewed as "off-topic" by some because it's not directly about bicycles, but I need to get a new motor vehicle (both because the old one is about to fall apart and because the new house where we're now living has a uncomfortably tiny garage).

So, what attributes should I look for in a vehicle?  Would be nice to have one that could carry my road bike in the cargo area (removing the front wheel if necessary), but it needs to be several inches narrower than my current enormous Honda Odyssey.  I don't really want to haul my bike to every auto dealer in town to see if it fits, so some clues as to "fit" might be good.

And, if no specific recommendations, you might suggest one or two to avoid entirely.

(Note that this is in the US.)
If its just yourself and one road bike, it will fit into the back a majority of hatch back style cars. With the seats folded down and front wheel off, you would be surprised how much space even a compact has. 

Look for a car that suits you best then make sure the bike fits. As far as putting the bike in, look for rear seats that fold up quickly and easily, a wide rear hatch opening with a low sill would be important to me. A front passenger seat that folds forward (if a small car) might help. 

Another option is some cars allow the rear seats to fold up, meaning the bike could be carried in the rear passenger foot well.  In this case you may want a chain cover to prevent oil getting onto the cars interior. 

Consider how much time the car is used as a bike shuttle vs other uses and balance the the convenience and costs.  For instance a large car that you can leave the wheel on is more convenient but probably costs more to own and run, a small two seat sports car while  cool to own,  is not very convenient if you have to take front and rear wheels off to carry the bike.