IMO, the best toad is a Jeep Wrangler, preferably 2001 to 2006. I like the look of them, I like the 4.0 inline 6 engine, I like the hardtop, I like the 6 disc AM/FM/CD changer stereo. If I was going to go back to serious off-roading, I would want the Rubicon model. That is not really needed for a daily driver. Regardless, for comfort and cargo capacity I would want the Unlimited (long wheel base) model.
I have seen such Jeeps for sale around here for less than $15,000, I have even seen them for less than $10K! Yes, many of them have lots of miles, but there is a lot of life left in them!
Mine will likely turn over 200K miles sometime this year, not including towed miles. It is still going strong, doesn't make any strange noises, doesn't burn or leak oil, and has good oil pressure. My son found it in Reno for under $10K!
Keep looking; I bet there is a Wrangler out there that meets your needs and budget.