I'd say the Grand Prix GT. My friend is a diehard GM faithful and has owned 2 GT's, and loved them both. I've driven both for extended periods of time, and they are very fun, low maint. cars. I'd say the same about the Altima, and it'd help if her family is behind that ideology. A high-mileage passat may not be a bad idea. I dunno what happens to VW's after XXX,xxx miles, but I'm sure someone here will chime in.