After this last blizzard we in the had in the NE USA and I was stuck inside for a week since my RX-8 couldn't get over the icy hump in the road I strongly considered trading it in for couple year old crossover / small suv at a lease return place. But after researching it for a few days I figured out 1. With trade and a few thousand I would never get anything comparable to my RX-8 Grand Touring. 2. Now that I can drive it again...I love this car and I don't want to sell it!!

I still need something to get me through the snow and it would be nice to have something I can use if I need to transport something larger then an overnight bag. Anyway I have about $3000 to spend looking for a mid-full size SUV or truck with cap, 4WD or AWD. What I need to know is what models should I be looking to buy (or that I should avoid like the plague) I realize with my budget I'm not going to get an SUV newer then 10yrs or less then 150k mileage. Suggestions?

 

How about an older model RAV4 or CRV? Or an older Subaru? All these would be more reliable than something like a Jeep.

 

I have a 1998 Rav-4 as a bad weather small SUV. 120K miles and it still looks and feels like new. You can pick up one of these for not much$$. That or a CRV. I looked at both (used) and the bought the Rav because it was in great shape. Highly recomend as a bad weather, 100lb. golden retriever transporter, and all around utility SUV. The autos are underpowered so if you get a 1st gen. you might want a 5speed. I do have an auto, wife can't drive a standard, so she dosen't drive the 911 either, since she also takes the Rav to work on bad weather days.
The 2nd gen. are much better power wise. The 3rd gen. are too large for what we wanted and also much more $$ for a back up car. Good luck in your search.
One more thing, the Ravs came as front or 4 wheel drive, make sure you go for the 4WD.
Just noticed the $3000 price limit. That would put you in a 1st gen. Rav. They are small but I love mine. Easy to park.

 

subaru.