Honda Civic (Ex or Ex-L)
Honda Civic Hybrid
Both are very reliable, look cool, are nicely fuel efficient 30 mpg + and cost between 20 and 25k USD.
Toyota Corolla 1.8L I-4
Looks alright to most, fuel efficiency above 30mpg and is very reliable
Toyota Camry 2.4L I-4
Looks okay, costs about 28k, is quite reliable and fuel efficiency is relatively excellent.
Mini Cooper 1.6L I-4
Costs a bit too much at 25-30k but is very efficient, looks awesome and will last 10 yrs + without a doubt