[scottmandue]

I have been though three Hyundai's and had zero problems (run them up to 90K miles then trade in).

Wife balked at the Yaris as "too small"

I am renting a Fiesta, nice little car but ergonomics and viability is not great.

Focus or Mazda3 would bring in some fun factor... I wouldn't be a member here is I wasn't a car guy... but trying to be practical and maybe hope for a 'fun car' somewhere down the road (however if the right Focus or Mazda3 pop up at the right price I may jump on it).

I have driven a Mazda3 (and liked it) but not a Focus.

Of course Honda is the gold standard when it comes to reliable cars, I consider a Civic or Fit if we can find one in our price range (as said Honda tax).

Versa is an option.

Prius is high on our list but for $8K I don't see many available... maybe some with high miles and then we worry about the battery ($$$).