Spouse wants a hatchback style or small car for small distances, preferably used (1-4 years old), somewhere around $15K. Currently looking at Mazda 3, Ford focus and Honda fit. First time driver too. We have a Honda Accord and don't prefer an SUV. What car is the best when it comes to insurance costs long term maintanence costs? Don't mind spending a bit more to save long term as cars depreciate fast. Any recommendations from the list above? Live in DC area.
Fit - so much cargo space for such a small car and good MPG. I recently bought a Fit while considering the Mazda 3 also. I’d stick with Honda/Toyota for longer term maintenance costs
Those magic seats on the fit are really cool.
Tesla
Get a Subaru. Should have a couple options in that price range and the AWD will come in handy during the snowy winter
Mazda3 is a slick car. Did you consider a VW Golf at all? That’s the other option I’d consider in that class
Honda Fit.
How about Infiniti
Subaru Crosstrek, Toyota Prius
OP said they don't prefer an SUV. That would take the Crosstrek out but the Impreza is the same vehicle in a car form. I'd stay away from the Prius. So many cars have good gas mileage these days. The Prius just doesn't stack up like it used to
Fit +1, but personally I prefer the hatchback civic if that's an option. Honda quality you can relay on
If you need a small car, seriously look at ford eco sport.... way better than the Honda Fit and not underpowered. Honda looks like it will throw a “Fit” when it gets past 50mph. Saying all this from personal experience. I have an eco sport and love it for the compactness and the power and the general “puppy-dog eagerness” it has... fun to drive if you get the sport version. Reminds me of mazda3 and the smile it puts on your face.
I'm a Honda/Toyota guy but several friends have Mazda3's and swear by them.