You can't go wrong with and late model Honda (or Acura which is essentially a Honda dressed up). They are usually slightly cheaper than a Toyota and just as, if not more, reliable. My first car was a 5yr old Integra... I put 60k miles on it (on top of the 65k it had when I got it!!) and only had oil changes, new tires and one set of brakes for expenses. I have had great luck with used Toyotas as well.
I had nothing but bad luck with used Pontiacs and Chevy cars, FWIW.
Keep looking... more will be revealed.