Cyclocross - efficient commuting bike?

currently I ride a 2006 roubaix, but I just had my car either crack the head or blow a head gasket, and it's really old, so I am thinking about commuting. Work is only 1.5 miles away, and the grocer maybe 3 miles.

I'm looking for something that feels like a road bike but will handle the fatter tires (32mm I guess?), can accomodate panniers, and doesn't cost too much.. oh, say I want to keep it under 700. I read that people recommend the surly crosscheck, but that starts at 800 before panniers or fenders! I don't want to have to feel worried that someone will want to steal my bike, and don't want the price to make me think twice about just not replacing the engine in the overheating car (a 1994 civic). I have a mountain bike that I could outfit for commuting, but I gravitate strongly towards the roadie riding position.

Thank you for any advice!!

A Cyclocross can be a good commuter

Consider;

http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/motobecane/fantom_cross_cx.htm

Something like this can work well also;

http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/bikes/08_bikes/08coda.html

http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-US/bikes/road/1244/29286/

Michael

Motobecane Fantom Cross CX

Your job is only a mile and a half away, and you were driving?

If it's a mile and a half away you don't need panniers and you don't need a new bike. Get a rucksack, get on the bike and pedal the 7 minutes it will take you to get to work. If you must buy a cheap rack and stick it on an old mtb.

But if you want to have fun and spend money I'd go for a cyclocross bike with 700cx25 tyres (35 is for off road and old people) lightweight rack and a pannier.

If you can find a old Raliegh sport and put a basket on the front, you'd be able to carry your groceries, wear work clothes and sport the wave to your neighbors in complete comfort - though it might take you nine minutes instead of seven...

For now use your mtn bike and keep your eyes open on Craig's List for a good used cyclecross bike. I have a Specialized Recross Sport which has eyelets for racks and so able to do groceries when needed.

thanks for the suggestions.

I decided to just stick with this bike, maybe get some water-ready 26"x1.5" tires and fenders/pannier. reasons:
1) money -- got gold?
2) I've found the MTB to be at least somewhat of a workout, gets the blood moving and the legs pumped. a lighter bike would hardly be worth it!

What about a singlespeed cross bike like the Bianchi San Jose? You get the workout and the ride quality is well-regarded.

I commute to work 11.5 miles away on a Kona jake. It's been a good commuting bike for me and it costs right around $700. I agree with a previous poster about 35c tires being too wide, I'm going to switch to either a 25c or 28c.