If you're just looking for reliability then get any of the import cars. I have heard that Ford has come far with the Fusion, but I still would not buy domestic. Just heard and experienced WAY too many bad BAD things. Don't ever buy Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Pontiac, Chev or GMC. They're all total garbage.... no offence to anyone who owns one
The nice thing about going with a smaller model new car is that you get a long warranty with it, and you also will usually get way better financing options. When I was looking for my first new car the bank was offering me 9% interest on a used vehicle, but I got my new Mazda for 1.9% over 5 yrs. My new Speed came with 0% for 6 years. Plus, already being a Mazda owner, they took $1000 off the price of the car, on top of a $1000 off special offer.
Consumer reports!! Read them!!