jessmarimba, when were you in Richmond? Fortunately, I rarely have to go on I-95, although today will be an exception. A Civic would be fine here, but I've never been to Colorado so I only imagine that it's all snow all the time.

Blueberry, I'm glad you like your Jetta TDI. I have a 5-speed manual transmission Rabbit that I love, but not TDI. VW had stopped making TDI Golf/Rabbit when I bought my car, although I looked in vain for a used one. If I ever get to the point of being able to buy a new car, my first choice will be a TDI Golf or Jetta. Great mileage, very well-made, all the safety features are standard (as are extras like heated seats!), and fun to drive.

I agree with everyone that the ability to drive in snow and ice is key. I never learned and have no reason to since I live in the south and when it snows, I just stay home (happily).

Good luck in your search, Jolt. If you don't need to buy a car since you can use the extra one, why not wait until you know where you will be and then decide? No sense in spending money until you have to, I say.