Looking Into Buying SUV

[FaCe-LeE-uS]

I think it is about time I sell my truck and buy an SUV. I love trucks, but I've been doing a lot of traveling for work lately and I need to make the switch. Currently I drive a '04 Dodge Dakota Ext Cab that looks like this:

It has around 110k miles, but has terrible MPG. Another reason why I want to switch is for more room for the family. I would like to buy an SUV since I believe it fits my particular needs, but I don't have any experience with them. So I was wondering if there are any people on here that have any recommendations? Main things that I am looking for in a SUV are:
1. Good MPG
2. 4WD Capable
3. Seats 6-8 (Wife, 2 kids, 2 dogs)
4. Preferrably (Light) Towing Capable - I have a pop up tent trailer which is about the only thing I can see myself towing. Probably around 1200-1500 lbs.
5. Reliable! I don't want something that is going to drain my pockets in the long run.
6. I'd like to set my ceiling around $25-30k

I like the "Sportier" look, but I'm not going to make it a huge preference. Also, I am an avid outdoorsman, so if that helps narrow it down further! I'm not looking for a town-car type of SUV, nor am I wanting something that is extremely expensive. Any advice/recommendations are appreciated!

Thanks in advance!

 

[outofyourmind]

I always liked these. Toyota FJ Cruiser



Don't know anything about them.
They say they start new at $27k.

 

[obxyankeefan]

I think it is about time I sell my truck and buy an SUV. I love trucks, but I've been doing a lot of traveling for work lately and I need to make the switch. Currently I drive a '04 Dodge Dakota Ext Cab that looks like this:

It has around 110k miles, but has terrible MPG. Another reason why I want to switch is for more room for the family. I would like to buy an SUV since I believe it fits my particular needs, but I don't have any experience with them. So I was wondering if there are any people on here that have any recommendations? Main things that I am looking for in a SUV are:
1. Good MPG
2. 4WD Capable
3. Seats 6-8 (Wife, 2 kids, 2 dogs)
4. Preferrably (Light) Towing Capable - I have a pop up tent trailer which is about the only thing I can see myself towing. Probably around 1200-1500 lbs.
5. Reliable! I don't want something that is going to drain my pockets in the long run.
6. I'd like to set my ceiling around $25-30k

I like the "Sportier" look, but I'm not going to make it a huge preference. Also, I am an avid outdoorsman, so if that helps narrow it down further! I'm not looking for a town-car type of SUV, nor am I wanting something that is extremely expensive. Any advice/recommendations are appreciated!

Thanks in advance!

you are most likely looking at something used.

I just paid $32k for a Ford Escape, but it would only sit 4 comfortably. If you need more space, 6-8, you are looking at the Explorer which runs between $40 and $50k. I only look at Ford's, so you might be able to find what you are looking for in another brand.

 

[FaCe-LeE-uS]

I always liked these. Toyota FJ Cruiser



Don't know anything about them.
They say they start new at $27k.

MPG is roughly the same as my truck @ 16 city / 20 highway.

 

[FaCe-LeE-uS]

you are most likely looking at something used.

I just paid $32k for a Ford Escape, but it would only sit 4 comfortably. If you need more space, 6-8, you are looking at the Explorer which runs between $40 and $50k. I only look at Ford's, so you might be able to find what you are looking for in another brand.

After doing some digging I would definitely have to bring my ceiling up another $15k to around $45k. I don't mind buying used though. What kind of mpg do those get?

 

[obxyankeefan]

After doing some digging I would definitely have to bring my ceiling up another $15k to around $45k. I don't mind buying used though. What kind of mpg do those get?

my wife has been getting 23+ around town in the Escape, but she is a gas burning driver.

The Explorer gets 17-23 in an AWD.

 

[outofyourmind]

Looks like there's a Mini Van in your future if you have to have great MPG.




I'm partial to the woody look.

 

[CarlWinslow]

 

[HammerDown]

Want to know what I did and it couldn't have worked out better? I bought a used Excursion and it's been an absolute gem of a vehicle. And I always buy my vehicles on eBay. Always gotten amazing deals too.

The day I got her over by LAX.

 

[fordman84]

Get as new a 4Runner as you can. You won't regret it. I like the new Explorer, but don't know anything about em. We almost got a Pilot when I decided to keep the current 4runner and upgrade the wifes car instead.

 

[NCChiFan]

There are no great MPG vehicles that seat that many... Sorry. You have to drop down into the Honda CRV or Jeep Liberty area before you see mileage in the mid 20's on the highway. And with those smaller SuV's you get seating for 5 max, with 3 squished in the back seat and a back area for dogs.

 

[757Hokie83]

 

[JuiceTheGator]

Here's your 1999 Toyota Mega Cruiser.

 

[JuiceTheGator]

Nissan Patrol. Being cool is usually worth the money:

Nissan Other LG 60 | eBay

 

[757Hokie83]

^ thats pretty amazing

 

[amszete]

Honda Pilot all the way dude. Set up an Auto Trader alert for what you want. I typically setup 3-4 alert types. I found one last year that was a 2010 - 50k miles with power everything, sunroof, entertainment center, etc. with clean carfax and paid 19k all cash. Those deals are out there - just need to be patient and pragmatic and have the $$ ready.

 

[FaCe-LeE-uS]

Good info gents! I'll definitely look into ebay & auto trader... I honestly wouldn't mind getting a smaller SUV that seated around 5.

 

[FaCe-LeE-uS]

Get as new a 4Runner as you can. You won't regret it. I like the new Explorer, but don't know anything about em. We almost got a Pilot when I decided to keep the current 4runner and upgrade the wifes car instead.

I like 4Runners... I also like the Xterra...

Anyone have a preference between Toyota/Nissan?

 

[FaCe-LeE-uS]

I think I've narrowed it down to a 4runner or a Pathfinder… I've seen a few used 4runners in the 2010-2012 area that are going for $25-30k…

Might be a done deal!

 

[Nascar Addict]

Good MPG??? In a SUV???

Unless it says Hotwheels on the bottom. It ain't happening.