I get motion sick very easily. Therefore, the smaller the car with a less "floaty" ride and a stick shift is ideal. I researched the engine and transmission options on the 2017 Fiesta heavily, and concluded going with the long-running 1.6L 120hp motor and 5 speed manual was the most reliable option. The engine is sufficient for power and the transmission is smooth and easy on the left leg. Gas mileage has been better than anticipated (but again, because of vertigo, I drive slow). I have averaged 37mpg on most fill-ups (worst has been 33 so far) and got as high as 45mpg on a long highway trip in flat Illinois at 65mph the whole way. The Ford Sync system is blah (at least the basic version I have) but usable at least (most importantly, bluetooth from the phone works 99% of the time the first time). The ambient lighting I have appreciated more than I thought I would, especially at night, when it's really nice to be able to see your feet/the floorboards when getting in and out of the car. So far, no issues here, but I've only owned it about a month and put 2k on it already. If any significant issues creep up, I'll buy the extended warranty at the 3 year/36k mark (when the bumper-to-bumper warranty ends). It is surprisingly inexpensive (about $1k for 6 year/100k coverage). I only drive a lot during the summer though. School year driving is average. Overall, I would recommend this car to another basic, conservative driver like me.