Sounds like you are pretty confused, which makes it difficult for us to offer reasonable suggestions.
As a former owner of a 2002 Pathfinder, I can say this: Get one with the 3.5 V6, so 2001 or newer; it will use gas at a rate of about 20-22MPG and it really needs premium to run right. My Forester gas costs are bout 30% less than what they where with the Pathy.
All the people I have known who have had Liberty's really did not like them for a variety of reasons such as fuel consumption (worse that the Pathfinder) and reliability. The rear suspension is a real killer on the Liberty. And they have a rather uncomfortable ride.
As for others on your list, for used it will be crap shoot depending on how well its been maintained. I would look at low kms Escape's, as well as any of the Japanese CUV's such as the Forester, X-Trail, CR-V, RAV4, Outlander, etc. But you really need to figure out how much you are willing to pay as that will narrow down your choices. For example, on the Forester, in 2001-2003 range head gaskets are an issue.
For the same amount of money, you can get a newer Escape than any of the others.
Also check out the Used Vehicle Reviews on the main site
http://www.canadiandriver.com/usedcars. For example, here is one for the Escape:
http://www.canadiandriver.com/2007/02/08/used-vehicle-review-ford-escape-2001-2006.htm. No real reliability issues noted, the final conclusion is "
The Escape is a decent little truck that looks like a great value compared to its Japanese rivals. My advice is to consider a Tribute too: despite its import badge, its resale values are similar to those of the Escape. In short, if you really like these little trucks, it’d be difficult to go wrong." so don't write it off too fast.
