Used Cars: Used vehicle..uh..situation., toyota 4runner, rear wheel drive

Question
Hi, Jay. Well once I graduate I'm heading into college and my poorly built Grand Am wont last much longer regardless of the ingenuity I employ to keep him going. So I'm looking for a new (used) vehicle. $15,000 is my absolute limit to keep payments low... I DONT want a car. maybe a truck, but an SUV is preferred. But my problem is finding something I don't have to compromise on. I'm looking for:

Moderate utility use,
Something that can handle occasional moderate off road use,
Average or above average fuel economy,
Something known for reliability and parts availability,
Something that is as refined as possible,
Economical, reliable, kinda cheap
Sharp,
Handles well.

I know that all this together is kinda hard to find without looking at premium auto makers (which, by the way, I cant do ha) but I know there is something that I haven't hit on that must come close... so any ideas or recommendations???

Thanks

Answer
Well when dealing in trucks/suv's, you dont really have as much problems with the different manufacturers as you do with cars.
Primarily because most of the trucks/suv's are rear wheel drive.
So for starters, I would recommend you stay with a rear wheel drive.
My first thought was a Toyota SUV, regardless of year, those are about the best overall, and you should be able to find a good one for that price or under, again remembering it just does not matter how old it is,when talking about Toyotas.
The Chevy Trackers are a big hit around here, they are tough, and very economical, but maybe a little small for what you need.
Nissans are very tough, just lack a little on the economical side, compared to toyotas.
Ford and Chevy have decent selections, again, as long as they are rear wheel drive.
I would not recommend a dodge, in this particular area.
I just think you should be able to find a 2004 and up Toyota 4Runner that would do what you need at that price, though I think the RAV4 is probably to small for what you need, I am not a fan of the RAV4, primarily because they are front wheel drive.
I love the Hondas, regardless of which one.
I think there are plenty good options for you, I just rank them this way though.
1. Toyota 4Runner
2. Honda Pilot/CRV
3. Nissan Pathfinder
4. Ford Explorer
5. Chevy Trailblazer