I read the thread about "parting ways," and never thought it was because of Erin. Good women know good men need good toys, and taking this from experience, knowing how close I am to my car, my wife would never want me to give it up unless that involved something dire...
Buying a house IS dire. It takes literally everything you have out of your bank account and yourself. But believe me, it is the wisest choice around. No car - none on the planet - equates to owning your own property.
As far as practical transportation, that depends: you have to involve your wife in this one (unless she has her own car - I don't know), but if it were me, I'd go with something simple to drive, well equipped AND depended on the future (kids?), safe.
I'm currently down on BMWs because out in L.A., they're a dime a dozen. Yet, they're darn good cars, so I wouldn't rule them out. I like the 3 and 5 series.
Audi is my current favorite - real practical, somewhat sporty, and cheaper than BMWs.
The small Mercedes is nice too.
Volvos are another thought, Subaru (as mentioned) is good, though the wagon seems smaller than the four-door version of the brands I mentioned.
Don't buy American unless you want an SUV. If so, go Ford.
Good luck. Hope you're safe out there. Things are starting to look a little dicey.
dd