I strongly reccomend an 05-08 Chevy Cobalt. EXCELLENT gas mileage, low-worries about dings (because it isn't a Camaro, etc), and the small size is invaluable for parking in those small parking spots.
I've got one, had it for 2 years now going to school, and don't know what I'd do without it.
I'd normally give some reason not to buy foreign...but since it's used, it doesn't matter...but they are ugly...