Here's another idea: buy a couple of year old Volvo XC90 or an Acura MDX. The depreciation on the Volvo's is pretty steep so you'd save some serious bucks. The MDX has taken pretty good hits too.

Per KBB, private party used examples in good condition, two years old, would private party sell for under $30K.

The X3 would be nice but if you price out a 3.0 with some options and it gets pricey. You'd be better to stick with the 2.5 and keep the options to the essentials.

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