Prepare to toss overripe vegetables in my general direction...but,
Curve ball...best bang for the buck? Mitsubishi Outlander GT. V-6, amazingly good AWD system, yes exterior design a bit challenging to the eye, (think Mighty Morphin Power Rangers), but they tend to grow on you after a bit. Won't tow a large trailer of course. Automotive press doesn't favor them, but dig deeper, owners seem to love them. Highly praised in the rest of the world. Compared to the Escape, it might be a pleasant surprise. Certainly don't buy one for resale value, but if you like having money left to take more camping trips, and that "cat that ate the canary" feeling. well, maybe take a look... dealer over in Hurst, has a few in stock.
This is not the GT, but it gives you an idea:
Outlander off-road reviewWith all that said, I also favor the Durango, but watch the tow capacity on the new designs, it's not as much as the older body on frame versions of the Durango.
