Ixnay on the autos. You want something quick/reliable/no safety. I carry a S&W Model 442 Airweight with concealed hammer (.38 sp +P). Point, shoot. No wondering about "do I have one in the chamber?"...
They also make a .357 model (Model 340?). Not sure I'd want to fire a .357 with a 1 7/8" barrel, though...
I have the waistband grip which has a small hook that rests on your belt so you can carry the gun inside your pants without a holster.
As a back-up, my "car gun" is the Glock 27 with extended finger grip allowing for one additional round.