[socktape]

I would say that you really need to look at what you are hoping to do with the vehicle especially since you want it for 8-10 years. Buy it for what you want to do with it, not for what you are doing now.

You said that you want to get into towing a trailer and boat etc. A lot of imports may have an issue with this as you will need to have at least a V6 and the towing capacity of at least 3500lbs. (no honda CRV)

If you start looking at trailers you need to consider what type of trailer as most of the hardwall trailers you would want at least 4500-6000lbs of towing to be able to tow a fully loaded trailer and vehicle, not to say you couldn't do it with a 3500lbs capacity but you are much safer to go with larger capacity. If your looking at a small ultralight or tent trailer then 3500lbs might be enough, I do this every summer with my Outlander but I am not entirely sure I'd brave a trip deep through the mountains.(although you might be pushing the space/wieght factor if you have a dog or two and kids, and all their stuff).

I don't know anything about pulling a boat so I can't comment on that but a big ski boat can be a lot more than 3500lbs.

what does that leave....

the big GM crossovers (enclave, outback, traverse, acadia)(4500lbs tow)

These ones below can range anyware from 3500 - 11000lbs for towing

GM/ford/dodge full size trucks.... associated SUVs - not Explorer - can't pull anything - uhaul used to not even let you pull their trailers with them.

big nissan/toyota trucks( Titan/tundra)/SUVs(sequioa, armada)

I am not too sure about the higher end stuff like a MB or a BMW Audi etc. but if you are looking for towing capability then from what I have seen you might want to look more domestic.