Just got a Honda Element a few months ago, then had to stop driving it for a bit because of paperwork problems. Just started driving it again, and I gotta say that I'm loving it. This car may look retarded and have the same i-4 as the Accord under the hood, but A. This thing is so awesomely functional and B. This thing has some TORQUE, so it doesn't feel underpowered.

This is a no-nonsense vehicle- except for the stock subwoofer under the 5-speed shifter weirdly placed in the dash.

i had you pegged for a scion or vw

I came very close to buying an 07 Explorer a week ago, but walked away because of the gas mileage.

Now I'm pretty much sold on an '06 or '07 Accord.

If you like Ford Explorers, then look into the Ford Escape. I have an 09 Escape and get 20.5 mpg around town. It's a V6. the gas mileage on the 07-08 models is close, about one mpg less.

I don't like how they look...

Nice!

It was always the most economical decision, but I've been fighting it.

I feel the same about the 07 and older models. The plastic gray trim along the bottom looks bad. Bumpers too.

The new Accord coupes are SWEET! I needed something more functional though, so I'm loving my new truck! If I wouldn't need to haul sea-doos or a boat, I would have gotten one. That or a Nissan Z. My mom has an Envoy Denali (about the same as a trailblazer,) and I wouldn't recommend it. The gas mileage is pitiful, and the power isn't all that impressive. Not a good trade-off IMO. The Toyota Rav4s are pretty sweet. But they're kind of girly, IMO. The Highlander is nice too. But if I were going that route, I'd get a Tacoma. Toyota's are too expensive though. They're good vehicles, but I'm not making bank yet and still living off of my parents. But, the new Honda's are really nice man.

EDIT: Oops, I see you meant the '06, '07 models. Not the new ones. Still awesome cars though.