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Yesterday I was T-boned at 55mph in my 2004 Matrix AWD. I need to buy a new car.  I think all of today's car are ugly save a few American cars that I wouldn't drive b/c I don't trust the reliability.  I am looking for a vehicle under $20,000 w/ AWD, good gas mileage, a bit sporty, with cargo space.  The problem is, this vehicle does not exist.  I was just going to get a new Matrix, but I found out the 2007's don't come in AWD anymore.  I am having trouble finding an 06 left-over.
I drive over 50 mi each way to work, 5 days a week.  I'm looking for recomendations of cars to look at, and experiences others have had with the current vehicles they tuly find practical (w/o making you feel like you are in your parent's old sedan.) My last cars before the Matrix were, a 4-Runner, a celica, a Chrystler Concord, and a Nissan Pick-up, so I'm open to a lot of suggestions.  Thanks.  

I can think of only one car that fits your criteria: the Subaru Impreza 2.5i.  It starts at 18K with basics like power windows, AWD, CD, etc.  at 19K, you get an ipod jack, and some other stuff.  

Despite the fact that this car may be your only new-car option for the price, it's a good one.  I can't speak for its looks, since that's subjective, but i do know that it's a good car with excellent reliability, very good power, decent fuel efficiency (not as good as your matrix), and exceptionally good handling.  

They come as wagons too, for a bit more, but either way, you can probably keep it under 20K.  

If buying new isn't a priority, consider 1-2 year used Legacies.  They're bigger, richer-feeling and looking, and and are equally reliable, though not as efficient since they have the same engine as the Impreza and weigh more.  

Since you put a lot of miles on your cars, I can't think of a better brand than Subaru for ultra-high-mileage, long-term driving.  

Sorry to hear about your accident, thank god your okay.

First suggestion is a 2006 or 2007 Honda Civic. It doesn't have AWD but you don't need it. It's a front wheel drive vehicle, light weight enough that you can manouver in snow with no problems. It was the 2006 Motor Trend Car of the Year for a reason. And it's priced right. You can get a brand new 07 Civic LX with power everything, Automatic, standard safety (side curtain airbags, abs, etc...) for under $17,000 at Metro Honda in Johnston, Rhode Island. Probably at a couple dealerships in New York as well.

Second Suggestion would be a brand new 2007 Suzuki SX-4. It's more like the Matrix in style and it's standard AWD for around $15,000! It comes with a 7 year 100k mile warranty with roadside assistance and standard safety like the Honda's! It's not the name or status as the honda but it will save you a pretty penny and it has all of the features you want.

Good Luck

-Anthony