I love road trips in mine. Driven it from California to Texas after purchasing. Texas to Miami and back. Houston and Dallas at least a few times a year.
I see so many of these things on the road... They aren't that bad. I avoid working on it constantly by doing while systems at once. IE: complete cooling system, complete front suspension, etc. I usually replace many things before they fail so I can schedule downtime rather than being stranded somewhere. @ 15 years old... These things do need love. But they are cheaper than any comparable new or used car options.
But we all have our tolerances for such things. Can certainly understand wanting out of the platform. Good luck with your choice of replacement vehicle.