Mazda Protege5

 

^^^^^^^^^^^^^
What he said.

The Protege5 is a very under-the-radar car, IMO. Meaning, it is undervalued. It's a great car. I think with the Mazada3 people started to realize it finally. And the 3 was an upgrade, but the P5 was solid in it's own right. But somehow I don't think it ever got the respect it deserved. They can be had for 5ish now, and still running strong.

 

This is exactly what I'd get for under $5k. You can find them with 60kish miles for $5k. If she wants something bigger get a Maxima. Timing chain FTW.

 

Both are good, dependable cars.

But you have a better chance of finding a good low mileage Toyota Corolla in that price range.
There seems to be a much greater demand for used Civics.
That demand results in higher prices over an equivalent Corolla.

I picked up a winter beater last month.
‘96 Corolla w/98K miles for $1,500.

I’m sure you can find a really nice one in the 5K range.

 

Infiniti G20. I have one and it has treated me well!