Get a Jeep! lots of power and f**k all fuel economy
Nah but seriously, terrano is a good 4WD to start with, was my first 4WD a few years ago. Learnt heaps in it, then i moved on to a big LWB Safari, and now on to the Jeep Wrangler.
Keep an eye out for local trips etc on here and join in! Best way to meet people and have fun!
Cheers
Fraser