In the market for economy car.. looking for suggestions.
 

I've been looking into new cars mostly and I've narrowed it down to two cars... 2012 Honda Civic LX and 2012 Mazda 3 GS-Sky. I would say the Mazda is the top pick right now.

I'm also considering used cars and would appreciate any suggestions you guys might have for cars that fit the requirements. I'm specifically looking for something newer so 2008 and onwards is preferred.

Requirements
- decent fuel economy
- automatic
- highly reliable
- sedan/hatch
- <25k taxes-in

I have the 2012 gs sky sport as my daily and I must say I've been impressed so far
Very good on gas, fun to drive and it fits within your requirement
Mazda vehicles are manufactured in Hiroshima
It doesn't mean it's anymore reliable than cars manufactured in NA but it's a peace of
Mind for me
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A second hand Honda Fit might fit your description as well.

If you want to move more downmarket you can look at the Yaris as well, but I found them to feel slightly...cheap.

They'll both be a lot cheaper than a new civic or 3 though.

Chevy cruze

How about the Toyota Prius V hybrid hatchback?
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2012 Honda Civic LX

Mazda has some wicked financing deals right now if you're looking into that.

2008+ Civic SI?

EDIT: Oh, you said no manual. Sorry :(
Perhaps a 2010+ Nissan Altima?

^Altima would be a bit bigger than the class of cars hes chosen in though. I'd say Mitsubishi Lancer but the CVT is kinda mehh and you dont want to get a stick.

Camry Hybrid

The GS Sky is a really great car, plus it sips gas like no other. I'll be on the market for a new car soon, and the Skyactiv 3 and the 2 are both options of mine.

Personally I'd move to the 2014 Mazda6 Diesel 6-speed when it comes out as a MZ3 driver myself. It's a great car on gas even if it's not a Skyactiv, but I've always wanted to own a diesel vehicle.

Mazda 3.
Not because i own a skyactiv, but I would choose it either way.
But really A new honda fit could leave you with thousands for gas / a nice vacation =P
But if you need the hatch, then the 3 is the only choice you have between the two.