If you need something the size of a truck, go for it, but consider an LPG conversion. I drive an Explorer because I need the weight for towing. I got it converted to run on LPG as soon as I got it. It cost just under two grand for a multi-injection system, which paid for itself in under 18 months.
If you don't need a passenger carrier, consider a Smart. I used to have a two-seater cabrio. I still regret trading it in. It was a great car, good fun to drive and had more leg room than the Explorer. Good fuel economy and drove like a go-kart, especially with the wider wheels. I drove it around half of Europe, but the best drive was the single-track roads up on the west coast of Scotland. That's got me thinking about nipping round to the local dealer's now...