What would you recommend in a small, fuel efficient, reasonably comfortable SUV?

Well I don't know your price range... but I definitely like the Jeep Commander, it's not huge but it's not small either, most have 4 wheel drive, plus they have HEMI's if you're into that... I'm not sure if you want a truck or not, if I'm correct, the ranger isn't very big compared to the F-150 and beyond, but the newer Ford F-150 are nice, my brother in law has a 2004, it looks really nice, and drives nice too, though it's really big, and might not be the most gas saving machine out there... The Toyota trucks are pretty decent, the engines are not gas guzzlers, should check those out if you want a smaller truck than what Chevy and Ford make... I really don't know, I just like looking at things I can't afford... just look around, buy a car magazine at the store, or buy Consumer Reports magazine, they have reviews of new cars available, they even make special booklets towards only vehicle reviews for every car model dating back from 2000 or the 90's, they're pretty helpful, and it could help you find what you want and need... oh you asked what i would recommend in a vehicle... yikes... ummm... safety features, brakes, 4x4 (I just like those), engine type, new modern features avaible that make the vehicle dependable... hmmmm....