Originally Posted by
odu_integra
So what you're saying is a Civic SI is beyond your driving limits? Buy a bicycle.
I don't think he meant that he couldn't handle a Civic SI and all it's power. I think he meant he'd get tickets with it.
OP: I'd look into the Mazda3, Subaru Impreza, and Subaru Legacy. The Legacy is slightly bigger, but is still a good value. You'll be able to get a new one for under $20k with some decent options. They are rated at 26mpg, but people say they get close to 30mpg on the highway.