I second the idea of a Civic. In fact that's what my DD gets when she goes to college - a used Civic with about 50k on it - that will last her through college. Great cars, ultra reliable and actually fun to drive. I have an Accord which I love. My only problem with my Accord is that when I pull in front of someplace to pick up my daughter or someone - they can never tell if it's actually me because there are about six other cars just like it (I'm used to driving flashy, unique cars like my Mini Cooper). But, I'm learning to be more part of the crowd.