To save miles on my F-250 diesel pickup, I drive a 1997 Chevy S-10 Blazer most of the time. With 195,000 miles on it, it doesn't use any oil and still gets 22 mpg on the highway, while giving decent performance off the road and in winter conditions. But it won't last forever.

I am starting to fantasize about a new vehicle to replace it. I would like to find something as close in size, capability and performance to the Blazer as possible. Decent off road performance and fuel economy are more important to me than luxury.

What vehicles should I be considering? Thanks for any input.

I would STRONGLY consider a diesel F-250, preferably one that I owned the pink slip on. You need to give more info (new, used, budget, etc) to get any real help. Jeep grand Cherokee is similar in size and probably more capable. I have never owned one so I don't know if they are good/bad/ugly. It would be cheaper just to drive the truck unless you are doing a ton of miles.

2015 Chevy Colorado or GMC Canyon. They'll be at your dealer this fall.





If you can wait until the fall of 2015, the 2016 models will have an available four cylinder 2.8 liter Duramax diesel engine. Whisper number for highway fuel economy with the diesel is up to 38 miles per gallon.

Sounds like you are looking for an SUV that will give good mileage. Some of the Jeeps are now availiable with a diesel engine that get 27 plus per gallon. E

Ditto K1500. You can buy a lot of diesel fuel and repairs for the$25-$30K you spend on a new vehicle, licenses, tires, gas.

I looked at that and I decided to drive my 98 Dodge 2500 diesel al the time.

I do tend to put a lot of miles on vehicles and so I am trying to save wear and tear on my truck. I need the truck for snowplowing, towing and heavy hauling. It's a 2004 F250 with low mileage and I figure it should last as long as I do if I take care of it.

I drive the Blazer 75% of the time and it is now 17 years old with 196,000 miles. I consider it just about perfect for daily driving and an occasional trip out west. I want a hatchback style vehicle that can accomodate a dog box in the back.

When the Blazer dies I'd like to get something similar to replace it. Thanks.

I'd check out a Subaru. Hatchback, AWD, good mileage, reliable, holds a dog box.

FC

Check into the Toyota Venza also.