For a couple bucks more, a newer Mazda 3 with a manual transmission is pretty unbeatable in price:economy:handling.

The 3 is much nicer inside than the Hondas or Toyotas of a comparable price, the engines are top notch, and extremely economical.

The Honda Fit would be my second choice if you're not happy with the Mazda 3. You should probably drive both and see what you like. Any generation of Fit is reliable, with the manual transmission they are pretty sporty and fun, and the seats fold super flat (and in different positions) which is nice.

Obviously the generic Toyota Corolla/Honda Civic are both fine but incredibly boring. Nothing wrong with either of them, really - but they are expensive for what you get in my opinion, as the owner is always wants to get back more of their original purchase price, because "it's a toyota!"

I'd also avoid VW, they tend to be VERY expensive later in the car's life cycle. They are nice, but nice things tend to break and have expensive repairs.

Avoid used Subarus, they tend to need a lot of wheel bearings, axles, and head gaskets (that's a big one). They also tend to be driven pretty hard depending on who owned it. Most people forget that AWD = higher maintenance prices, lower economy, and also you have to change all four of yours tires at once if something goes wrong with one that can't be patched.