We bought a 2001 brand new. Well, we leased it. Last time I will do that. The Blazer did pretty respectable in the snow. Drove nice, mileage was as could be expected. Lots of issues with things like wheel bearings and just cheap parts in general that didn't last. I am a maintenance freak so it wasn't due to lack of maintenance or abuse. Turned it in, bought a 97 Jeep Grand Cherokee for $5k cash in Jan 2006. Still driving it. Minimal issues. Just normal maintenance. Mid teens around town, high teens on the highway. 166k miles now and rolling. Go with the 4.0L straight six engine.