Tips on Buying Cars: buying new car(Mazda), subaru imprezza, nissan sentra


Question
I'm planning on buying a new or used car. I want something that will get good gas mileage as I will be using it for school, 40 miles each way, 3-4 times a week. And something around 13-17k, doesn't matter new/used. I'm leaning toward a Mazda3. What do you think?
Also, what are some things I should do before stepping into a dealership? Thanks in advance.

Answer
Last question first: I'm gonna direct you to my own website:

www.carbuyersedge.com

Roll your mouse over the categories at the top of the home page, and click on the areas that might be of help to you.  Lots of reading, for sure, but that's why I set up the site, so there would be one central reference point for questions like yours!

The Mazda3 is a great choice, but don't overlook its strongest competitors: Honda Civic and Ford Focus.  Both cars have proven reliable, economical, and fun to drive.  Up next are the Nissan Sentra and Toyota Corolla.  They compare well in the first two categories, but aren't as much fun as the Civic or Focus.  Subaru Imprezza falls short on fuel mileage, and the VW Golf is a blast, but reliability is questionable.  As I see it, you've got three great cars to consider.