We have a fleet of Crown Vics and Grand Marqs along with a couple of Explorers thrown in for good measure. Most of my career here in Cleveland has been spent inside larger cars like Olds Delta 88s, Vics and Marqs. In the early 90s I had a Taurus and a Sable.
I like the Vickies because they provide a good ride, are better on gas (not much, but a little), and in my opinion easier to organize than an SUV. The trunk is deep and will provide a safer haven for your camera than an SUV unless you have a camera vault. I hated my Explorer. Of course, that was in the mid-90s. It rode hard and eventually had suspension problems. The cockpit was noisy, too, which is another advantage I think the Vickies have.
I always kept my lighting case, tripod, mud and snow gear, cables and grip gear in the trunk. The camera rested comfortably on the back seat with my PortaBrace production pack, tapes and spare batteries on the floor right behind my seat. Also sharing the back seat was a plastic container that held my maps, phone books and station phone numbers that I could reach simply by putting my arm behind the passenger seat. In the Explorer things weren't alway within an arm's reach.
I also have a visor pouch where I can keep my company gas card, note paper, pens (for the reporters, of course) and gum handy.
Good luck picking a car!
Best,
Kim.