We looked at the Subaru Baja. I had dismissed it a while ago due to the specs (small engine size). She thought it was cute....so we stopped. It is nice looking, but must continue to push functionality.

Land Rover is Ford.... <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/coolg.gif" alt="" /> Ford Explorer 4-door, 4x4 was too big/thirsty compared to the vehicles above, Excursion more so.

Ford Escape Hybrid sounded neat and worth waiting for...until you see max tow is 1000 lbs.

The gasoline Escape was an option. I like the mileage it gets as well (20/25 in the front wheel drive model, couple less in 4wd, just like the Rodeo). Then you read some of the specs on their "No Limit" rugged package:
ò 4WD is extra. Just odd that it's not included in the "No Limit" off-road package.
ò Front and rear appearance skid plates. (Direct quote)
ò New unique cloth fabric. (Direct quote)
I also don't like the 66 cuft of storage (vs 81 in Rodeo) in the same size vehicle...and the Escape makes you store the rear bench in the back, like the XTerra. This takes it down to maybe 60 cuft, with two spare seat bottoms bouncing around.

G. Angle of Approach (degrees) 20.4 (To Rodeo's 32.5). Good luck getting over that rock or up that steep hill.
F. Angle of Departure (degrees) 27.2 (to Rodeo's 24...with low-hanging spare on. That goes in the back when 4x4ing!)

Escape is nice, but more in the RAV-4 class. The hybid version will be awesome as a mall-runner/grocery-getter. But not really for off-road.

I also liked the Dodge Durango. Neat look, lots of power, make for towing...and the gas mileage to prove it. Then in 2004 they went with the "Supersize" option and it looks like a mini-van. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/barf.gif" alt="" />

Trailblazer/Ascender also too big for what I need.