I loved my Suzuki Sidekick, great all-around vehicle for an active lifestyle, good on gas, can be had with a stick. The 1st gen are hard to find in decent shape, but you could find a newer one well in your budget.
The Suzuki SX4 could also be an option. Fiat DNA and a manual make it fun to drive, AWD is there, a small hatch but it also can be had with a roof rack. Suzuki's have depreciated like crazy since they are a dead MFG here, but they are reliable.
For that matter, a Kizashi might be available in your range. AWD was available on the GTS model with 185hp, not sure about a stick, probably only on lesser models. Not sure where you'd stick a deer, but it has a trunk.
pinchvalve said:
I loved my Suzuki Sidekick, great all-around vehicle for an active lifestyle, good on gas, can be had with a stick. The 1st gen are hard to find in decent shape, but you could find a newer one well in your budget.
The Suzuki SX4 could also be an option. Fiat DNA and a manual make it fun to drive, AWD is there, a small hatch but it also can be had with a roof rack. Suzuki's have depreciated like crazy since they are a dead MFG here, but they are reliable.
The Stig seems to be looking at that rather disapprovingly.