I think the Mitsubishi Montero might be right up your ally. It looks a bit smaller than the Trooper but I can't think of anything in the Trooper size for your money. If you think even smaller the Suzuki Vitara or Chevy Tracker are fine. I have both and they are my favorites. I am selling one as I now have a Trooper to pull a larger trailer than I can with the Suzukis. The Grand Vitara has a 2.5 litter V6 as does some of the Trackers.
Randy