I'd be kinda weary of the smartrack system, it seems when GM comes out with anything really high tech, it can be trouble prone (or any american company for that matter)
that sounds like a really good price on that bravada almost too good. Looking through my trusty paper here I have found a few things in that range.
96 Pathfinder
98 Subaru outback
97 explorer with high miles
out of the domestics I would have to reccomend the exploder the most, with the 4.0 SOHC or the v-8 power will be decent, the pushrod 4.0 is a bit of a dog.
The blazer (up until the new model) was really behind the competition in so many areas. A Jeep Cherokee (not grand cherokee) may not be too bad either. With the 4.0l I-6 they can move fairly well although they are in no way shape or form very large inside, and are easily the most reliable Jeep, should have a easy time finding a 98 (or maybe 99) in your price range.
The Japanese SUV's (Pathfinder, and 4 runner) are obviously built fairly well but don't depriciate as quick so finding one in your price range could be tough. An Isuzu Rodeo might be a good bet? I don't know much about them but the DOHC 3.2L was introduced in 96 I believe and thus that year or anything newer would have some ballz and they seem to be built fairly well.
I (with bias) think the outback might not be a bad choice, better gas mileage than the SUV's and except for the most powerfull ones it's quicker than. Ours has been great in the snow, making it up our hill and non paved driveway no problem, I don't often find people who really need an SUV.
HTH
-Pete
