I drive an Isuzu Trooper. Advantages include tons of space, tons of ground clearance, 4WD, excellent reliability. Disadvantages include poor gas mileage, very tall roof (I have a Thule rack system. I'm ready to buy their 'outrigger' attachment to make loading boats easier.)

Some others worth considering that are good truck/car compromises in my opinion are the Subaru Legacy Outback wagon (4WD, higher ground clearance than conventional car, good gas mileage & reliability, drives like a car rather than a truck) Subaru Forester (similar advantages), Volvo Cross Country Wagon (more refined and expensive than the Sube's but really nice cars.) They have 4WD, adjustable ride height, REALLY solid roof racks (Also structural frame components in roof under the spots a Thule rack mounts) that are rated for 250 lbs of cargo. My wife has a base model Volvo wagon that we're very happy with.