Toyota Corolla, Honda Accord, and my parents actually got whatever the Hyndria equivalent is to a Corolla and that appears to work well. However, I would only recommend purchasing a brand new car if you can actually afford to pay cash for it. Cars quickly depreciate in value the second you drive them off the lot. You also have to consider that a new car will bring higher premiums on your insurance and higher taxes if you have car tax. I would also certainly play one dealership off against the other if you have that option and see who gives you the best price. Don't forget tax, tags, etc as well.