What would be a good car/suv for me (more info)?

I'm 18 right now I drive a 2001 cavalier my parents bought for me. It hasn't given me any trouble but has a ton of miles on it. Next year I will be driving 40 minutes to college, I kind of want something decent in the snow. I will probably have to buy used. I might not even need a car for a while if mine lasts two years. But I have been looking into the Mercury Mariner. I want something nice (preferably 4 doors) But something really bad on gas.