I think my commute killed my transmission. What should I look for in my next auto?

My work commute requires me to climb the Cuesta Pass which is a high grade pass of about 3 miles. I started taking this commute about 5 months ago. Now my 2008 Ford Escape is in the shop because the automatic transmission went out. Looks like I'll be in the market for a new car.

I'm wondering if this daily grind may have been too much for the 4 cylinders my trusty Escape was running on.

So, what kind of specs should I look for in my next ride? I like having a mid/small SUV like the Escape. I'm hoping to pay at/under 20K.

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