What kind of Pickup/SUV should I buy?

[Mike]

i have a 2006 crew cab GMC sierra Z-71 p/u and i get about 20mpg. This is after a cool air intake, exhaust, and a programmer. everything else is stock. you could get a used one for 20K or less easy. i would look for something in the southwest if possible so it won't be rusty already. My truck has room for my wife and I with two adults in the back seat including a car seat for the kid. we could fit someone in the middle up front too if needed. it is comfortable for five and has room for six if needed. Also, I just put stuff in the back seat if i need it locked up.there are also locking cargo covers for the bed that rool away for hauling stuff. just a few ideas for you. good luck!

 

[frzaazzurri]

With the winter we are having in NJ I am getting to the point where I would like something to handle the snow. I have already had an accident (hit a tree) due to bad traction with snow and ice. Anyway, this is my criteria: As close to $20k as possible. I am 6'2 so need some leg room. "Compact" for pickups is preferred. (If I can put a plow its a plus, but not necessary) RELIABLE & has to be 4x4!!!
I am planning on using this vehicle as my daily commuter, but also plan on occasionally using it to transport things. (I try to clean snow/mow lawns/help people move) on the side for extra cash. Personally I am leaning towards a pickup. I usually do have to drive my family places so if I have extra seating it would be ideal. (Hence why I am torn between the two). I would like it to have decent fuel economy (at least 20city miles per gallon).

Some of the cons that are making my decision difficult.

Pickup Truck: Most are big (long), lack of comfortable seating space esp. for passengers.

SUV: No Trunk to hide/lock things (like a car), lack of transport space for items like snow blower, lawn mower, larger items etc.

 

[Mike]

For what you want your really not leaving yourself with to many options. Your biggest problem is wanting something that gets 20mpg city but can still have a lot of cargo and passenger space. Your not going to get the 20mpg city with these suggestions but it might be worth considering for your needs. The Chevy Trailblazer or the GMC Envoy. Available with 4 wheel drive and also in two lengths. The longer version has a fold down third row seat that would offer enough room for passengers and larger items like you stated before. Plus its more of a mid size SUV so it would be easy to get around in. Other than that you might want to look around for an all wheel drive mini van. Hope this helps.