Seriously though, a $20k budget would by just about any car on the market if you go used and look back 5-7 years. What I'm probably going for in five years for my next car? V8 Pathfinder. Pretty rare, but fun. I'll probably settle for a 4.0l Pathfinder or Xterra though, if I can find a nice one. $20k would buy those all day long with spending money left over. Of course my commute is comical, so gas is not an issue for me. You have to understand, asking the question "I have $20k, what car should I buy?" is like asking "I have a penis, what girl should I fuck?" You'll get a lot of opinions based on other people past experiences, but at the end of the day, get the best you can for what you need. If you don't want to share any additional information, go out and buy a brand new Chevy Cruse. Made in Lordstown, Ohio, you can get one under $20k with a warranty. You're supporting Americans and Ohioans. Would I buy one? No, but I probably wouldn't fuck your girlfriend either.