I just checked Yahoo autos and there are 161 Foresters available in the range of 7k-9k. Some have incredibly low mileage. The newest one was a 2003. the oldest was a '98. Unfortunately you are kind of stuck in a dilemma. You are pretty much going to have to decide which is more important...great gas mileage or the ability to haul stuff. I think you will find most of the smaller SUV's get around the mid-twenties on gas which really isn't too bad. I would seriously check out consumer reports on the vehicles you are looking at, especially if you are considering one with AWD. Believe me they do not all perform the same. I used to be a Honda girl but I have switched my allegiance especially after my car saved my life when I had to travel in a severe snowstorm to get to work...and I only live in OHIO!!!!