The newer vehicles will have better fuel efficiency as the manufacturers are focusing on better efficiency. Prior to 2006/2007 you will be limited to the compact class and I would recommend Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Subaru Forester. US brands would be Saturn Vue and Ford Escape, both with the Japanese power plants. As far as safety goes, all of the cross overs are safe. If you are looking at a SUV that has true offroad capability, tip overs become more of an issue. And fuel economy is roughly the same in all as long as you stay away from V8s.