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just don't get a focus with the powershift dual clutch transmission. The only real detail I know about them is there is a reason they are so cheap. You may need to get a manual or one outside of the offending years. I like my ST quite alot.

Otherwise buick or something else American and reliable with a low resale value. You can get a decent camry/corolla/accord/civic for that price private party but will take a bit of searching.