To narrow down what you might like, it would be nice to know where you live (i.e. , a congested city, snowbelt area, etc. ) and also if you would consider leasing and/or you don't mind the immediate depreciation hit on a new car. If you would consider a resale vehicle, several manufacturers offer certified pre-owned programs on their entire range and give them a comprehensive warranty but they have already taken much of this depreciation hit.
Based strictly on the priorities you have listed, however, I have posted some reviews. These will cover general price ranges and, in some cases, prioritize the vehicles on desire (safety, fun-to-drive factor, etc.). Once you find some vehicles in your range -- if you are considering new, especially -- I recommend going to the manufacturer's website where you can "build" your car with the options you like and get a quote (this will usually be the MSRP -- Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price -- for your area BUT, with the economy the way it is, there is a lot of haggling to be had and specials to be found!
). Personally, I have had too many problems with American cars and have not been impressed with the quality or durability of the interiors. That being said, the Ford Fusion and similar Mercury Milan are based on the same platform -- albeit slightly stretched -- as the last generation Mazda 6.
I previously owned a 6 and enjoyed it. You can get into a 4-cyl. Fusion for as little as ~18K but even a well-equipped V6 model would come in under 25K.
A hybrid and all wheel drive will soon be available, but this might lift the price above your maximum. The car getting all of the raves, however, is the newest Chevy Malibu. It is available with a hybrid (might be over your price point) but is sleek and sexy...I can't believe I just said that!
I hope this helps!
Funny thing. When I researched this for myself last month, using the government's EPA ratings and a variety of other factors, I settled on the Plymouth Vibe. I wanted something for which parts would be less expensive; something with good gas mileage; big enough for my family.
The Vibe was my top pick.
Ok full disclosure I'm an editor at Cars. Com, but that also means I know a bit. 1.
If you have a family discount at GM that's a no brainer. Ford has expanded its employee pricing sale through Jan. 12 though and there are good deals there.2. More guidelines would be good.
3. I'd say get another Vibe. The new design is terrific, it's fun to drive, decent mileage and you'll get a good deal.
If your old Vibe is a 2000 or newer Loyalty cash is $1,000. Use this site to see all the offers gm.com/vehicles/currentoffers/ Heck you can get a V-6 Saturn Vue (one of the best SUVs in that class IMHO) for $21K with current incentives (not incl family discount). Mileage isn't great though.
I also prefer the Vibe to the new Saturn Astra. Here's the Cars.Com Vibe review http://www.cars.com/go/crp/research.jsp?ASSET_TYPE=Affiliate+Review%2CBuying+Guide%2CVehicle+Profile&revlogtype=17§ion=reviews&makeid=40&modelid=5850&year=2009.
These people are all crazy. I would never personally buy a car from the Big 3, although I've owned a few used ones in the past. Buying new would be insane.. However, I would probably go with a Ford since they're far more reliable than anything GM or Chrysler has been spewing out.
I'd recommend the new Ford Focus which has been shown to be an excellent car with pretty good gas mileage. Or possibly, wait until next year when Ford will be revealing a ton of new Hybrids, perhaps you'll find one you like.
Since you have had a hatchback with your vibe my suggestion would be to check out the Mazda 3... I have been a huge fan of Mazda's for how long they last (family has always had them and easily put 200,000 miles on each one before replacing it with a newer model. The other nice thing is you can get your Ford discount on the Mazda brand (and if you care about 'buying american' most Mazda's are built right in Michigan).
You should check out the Chrysler 300. It's an excellent car, and if you get a 2008 model you can probably get it within your price point. It's a great performing, nice car, and very reliable.
Check out the Chrysler 300 chrysler.com/en/2008/300.
I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.