[00 SS]

It's been a while since I've considered buying a little car just to go from point A to point B but I find myself needing one. I have a few requirements.

1. It must be capable of at least 80 on the highway without being right at redline.

2. It must get at least 30 MPG on the highway.

3. It must have enough room for 4 people or 2 people and 2 big dogs.

4. It must be competent in bad weather and snow.

5. It must be cheap because I plan to pile miles on it and replace it in a couple years.

6. I'd preffer sometheing newer to keep maintenance costs down.

Any suggestions?

[torontoZ28]

Ive been happy with my Mazda Protege 4 door. Excellent fuel economy, decent handling (for what it is). This car has seen 190K km's of stop and go city driving, 3 drag days and even 5 lapping days and Ive gone through front rotors only once, and am still on the original clutch - no slipping or chattering!