been loking at new or different tv

[Aaron Coffee]

I have been looking at new or slightly used new tow vehicle, the more I look the more my head swims. My criteria are mileage at least mid 20's if not better, my teardrops weigh:#1 950 pounds, #2 650, ability to haul nephews soap box car, seating for 4, air conditioning, possibly a 4 wheel drive, otherwise not to picky, do lean towards a Chrysler product. Looked today at a Jeep Patriot, 1,000 lb tow rating, 2,000 with tow package. To get the tow package the options bring it up to mid 20's in price, rated at 28mpg highway. Anyone have any experience with the Patriot? Other sugestions?
Thanks

[07rascal]

Ford Escape. We bought a 2009 last fall. Its a 4 cyl, auto, 2wd. Gets us about 30-32 mpg on the interstate at 65-70 mph without a trailer hooked to it. Has a 1500 lb tow rating. With a V6 it goes up to 3500 lb tow rating. Great SUV. Drives like a little truck, but has really good creature comforts.

[asianflava]

How bout a 1st gen Diesel Jeep Liberty. They're old enough where you can probably pick them up pretty cheap. Also seem to meet all your criteria.

[GerryS]

Love my 06 Libby CRD. No numbers for towing yet (I'll have those on June 22nd when we pick up our camp inn) but items a solid 28 driving sanely without a load. Good power too.

I BRIEFLY pulled a Scotty sero with it, it handled the weight fine, but felt squirrely.