Help me choose my second car - wagon / hatchback

[fwprawn]

My 1999 Jeep Cherokee got 26-32 mpg if I drove really nice and easy/slow - it got too rusty, and I replaced it with a 2001. No matter how hard I try, I can't get past 18 mpg. It's CRAZY. So, I am looking for a second car for my trip - driving, and need your help choosing my second vehicle for a gas-saver.
Please firsthand experience only - mpg, reliability, other issues. This is not a "Does this look cool or not?" thread.

Can't be too small (Cancel out Mini, Fiat, etc)

Ford Focus - VERY uncomfortable seat - cancel that.

Must be good on gas - I prefer 30's.

Options include (but not limited to) the following:

Mazda hatchback/wagon
Subaru impreza wagon
Nissan Cube, Juke, other wagon/hatchback type Nissans.
Kia wagon (Rio is too small)
Toyota Matrix
Honda Fit
Honda Element
Suzuki Sx4, other wagons/hatchbacks?

I probably am forgetting some - but would like to stick to $15 - 23 K (All of the above vehicles fall into this category.)

Look forward to your input!

 

[nomad]

I would also go with your first two choices (in reverse order). I drive an Impreza and I love it.

 

[redman88]

I have an 08 Honda fit. 69k miles and original brake pads. Decent gpm

 

[fwprawn]

Nomad, what year is it? I researched them, and apparently they get 27 mpg highway - and the '12 gets 36 mpg highway. What do you get? Auto / manual?
Thanks!

 

[clemsonguy1125]

Ive got an element and like it but it doesnt get the 30 MPG you want.

 

[nomad]

Nomad, what year is it? I researched them, and apparently they get 27 mpg highway - and the '12 gets 36 mpg highway. What do you get? Auto / manual?
Thanks!

Mine is a 2005 manual sedan ( I can't stand automatic cars). I haven't had one single problem with this car. It's my first subaru and I'm definitely sold on them.

 

[fwprawn]

Redman, what do you consider "decent" ?

clemson - What do you get for mpg ? high 20's ? Is it an AWD ?

 

[fwprawn]

Nomad - what do you get for mpg ?

 

[brich999]

Stick to a new body style 2010 Mazda3. I've owned one, and worked for Mazda for 3 years. Go with a grand touring if you can find it. The 2.5 is powerful but I drove one brand new back from fredricksburg VA to Portsmouth NH and averages 32 on that trip on regular 87 gas. If I were you id look into a new Acura tsx wagon they will be just over 30g but so much more car, new car, better mpg(last trip was 34mpg and that was highway with lots of traffic) and the car WILL PAY FOR ITSSELF. No really but you can't get em now and they wont lose any value, just watch

 

[brich999]

Wait you live in new England? Pm me I might b able to help ya out