Have you looked at the Suzuki SX4 crossover? It's a small but taller hatchback with AWD; looks a little like a mini-SUV. I just got one (yesterday!) and really like how it drives, and the driving position is higher than the typical small car (the seat is higher). It also has a feature where you can select 2WD when the weather is such that you don't need the AWD on, and that helps the gas mileage. The rear seat folds down and flips forward for when you need to carry large items. Having only had it less than two days so far, I can't comment on reliability other than to tell you Consumer Reports rates it above average. As for your other possibilities, Toyota and Honda both make really good cars as we all know; I'd stay away from Kia although supposedly they have improved greatly in the past few years.