[dicknixon72]

Another dark horse candidate for a cheap beater SUV is - if you can find one - an '02-07 Saturn VUE 4-cyl with a 5-speed manual. Polymer panels (dent-resistant and won't rust), tons of room, 2.2l Ecotec for ridiculous fuel mileage, low-key on maintenance, and plenty of room. Additionally, it is its own theft deterrent and will literally never die.