Just wanted to add some thoughts.

My sister just recently bought a hyundai tucson. she loves driving it and seems to be a good SUV with good gas mileage.

A coworker went and bought a ford escape after owning subarues. the subarues costed him more to maintain, but he said he wouldn't buy an Escape again.

My personal picks?? I would go with Toyota, the corolla or camry if you want a car, or the RAV 4 or Highlander if you want to stay with an SUV, both are getting decent gas mileage

other considerations?? Honda...and i can't believe i'm going to say it, Daimler Chrysler vehicles. its the second year for most of their new cars and trucks, and they have the new "lifetime powertrain warranty", on all their vehicles.

I have to say that i haven't had too many issues with my VX but once i stop owing on it, i'm getting something else. So i guess i kinda gave you the companies that i'm looking into. Hope this helps.