Subaru has the Forester which Consumers Reports rates as "Top Pick" in the small SUV category. Around 22,000(US) I have one (04 Forester XS). I get 34mpg (Imperial Gallons). I occasionally tow my utility trailer, Forester is rated to tow 2400lbs. I can carry 5 people comfortably. Subaru has one of the top "Owner Satisfaction" and "reliability" ratings on the market today. Plus, If I want to go fast, really fast, I could have gotten the XT (Turbo) model with over 240hp, 0-60 in less than 6 seconds. To top it all off, these are reallly easy to re-sell when the time comes, they are hard to find used. If, and when I need more vehicle for whatrever trip or purpose, I'll rent it for the day, or weekend, whatever.