I was going to suggest looking at a Nissan* X-Trail. It's basically a Pulsar-derivative, but taller, less overhang and a 4WD gearbox. The handling and space is great and our rough estimates put the mileage at reasonable about 10 L/100 km. Which is almost what the sticker said. We haven't taken it for a "real" 4WD - the car mags say its 4WD capabilities are ordinary.
We drove a Pajero for 8 hours whilst away in Borneo. The X-Trail is much better.
Wade.
* I think Nissan are still badged Datsun on the states.