Pontiac Vibe
Posted by: Waterbird on Mar-09-13 1:09 PM (EST)
is the twin of the Matrix, and several reviews say the exterior styling on the Vibe is better. A used one should cost you less than a Matrix. As far as I know it has the largest interior hauling capacity of any car in it's class---you can fit an 8' ladder in it with the front seat down.
The Vibe has superb reviews for utility and reliability from both professionals and consumers. There is only one small complaint---a recall on certain models for the power train control module.