we sorta have similar goals. ever consider looking into a 2010 or so subaru outback? with the right tires theyll have about 9" of ground clearance and can go 95% of the places a jeep wrangler can. ive taken mine to several ORV parks, have much less trouble than others in traditional "trucks" but i still get about 27 mpg(down from 30+mpg cuz no longer aero-friendly) with a toasty butt and a stereo that will make your ears bleed.
only downside is lack of towing capacity. the 4cyl is only rated at 2700lbs and the 6 cyl 3000lbs.
a hyundai sante fe still gets good mileage and can tow 5000lbs.
but i just saw you are in georgia, so i guess driving a foreign car would be like waving a flag that says "i hate jesus"