Help me choose a "new" car.

[linwa1]

Hello, I need a little car buying advice. I am looking for a car to use to commute to work, 42 miles round trip. I sometimes need to shop for restaurant supplies, so a large trunk or cargo area is essential. I will be doing that trip for the next 18 months and then hope to retire. I have between $10 and $12 thousand to spend. I would like something safe, good gas mileage and reliable.

[Eric]

It's a couple of years old, but I think still pretty relevant:

http://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2012/03/19/top-10-cars-for-smart-people/

[linwa1]

Thanks Eric, that is just what I was looking for.