I'm looking for a small used car for two kids and myself. I want auto, fuel efficiency with as many bells and whistles as I can afford. Ideally it should be $7000 or under. Really not too worried about make or model, just something that will be reliable and safe.
You’ve got a limited budget, which will determine the car you can buy. It will be a relatively old car, so buy one in the best condition you can find, with the lowest odometer reading, a good service history, and the best safety rating. Try a Mazda3, Toyota Corolla, Kia Rio, and Hyundai i30 from 2008/2009.