i hate having to do it with todays gas prices, but there is no way to avoid this huge gas hog.  i have a quadriplegic daughter who is confined to a very large power chair.  we have to carry a lift with us to most places so she can get out of chair at the doctor or on trips away from home.  a smaller van will not hold her equipment.  sad with todays need to cut back.  the only way we have been able to cut back is to make NO unecessary trips anywhere.  i also have and rarely drive a 2002 dodge diesel pickup.  we are ranchers and sometimes have to haul large livestock, feed, hay, etc.  that to is driven only when we absolutely have to.  i see all the lovely little economy cars and would love to have one, but it would be impossible in our circumstances and finances to change.  we are retired and cannot afford to buy a new vehicle anyway.  a bit of a catch 22 situation.  good thing i am a homebody.