I need some vehicle advice please. [View All]

I have been a truck guy since 1988. I've had 2 Ford F-150's, a Ford Ranger, and now a double cab Toyota Tundra.

I use my truck...a LOT.

I transport rescued dogs. Having the backseat on the Tundra is great for that. Also, I sometimes transport 2 or 3 dogs at a time, and since I don't always know how the dogs are going to get along, I sometimes have to bring 2 crates with me...and these take up room.

I also do DIY to the Nth degree. The back of my truck is constantly full of mulch, landscaping materials, or construction debris.

I am not a rich man. I got a fantastic lease deal on this Tundra @ $222 per month. However, my lease will expire in December, and I have to get a new vehicle.

With gas prices the way they are, I can no longer afford to drive a huge truck. Also, the lease incentives on trucks suck right now, and I will never be able to get a deal that comes close to matching what I got on the Tundra.

So, I am going to be looking to lease a different vehicle, other than a truck or SUV.

I would prefer this vehicle to be all wheel drive, with a hatchback. Something with a backseat for the dogs, but also a small cargo area that I can just throw crap into without worrying about it. Something with good gas mileage, and something relatively cheap.

Any recommendations?

Thanks.