Another suggestion:

A 2003-2005 VW Passat (b5.5 model is what you want, nothing newer)

For almost 3 years my daily driver has been a 2002 VW Passat wagon. I have put about 90,000 miles on this car. It now has 191k. It has started EVERY time and is utterly dependable. Being a VW, I have fixed a couple of odd problems such as a clogged heater core and broken windshield wipers but for the most part it has been just tires, brakes etc...

My brother has a 2004 which now has 243k on it. Original engine, transmission and even clutch!! I have talked with many who say these cars, like some Volvos, will run forever. Know of cars that have 300k or even 400k on them.

This era Passat is a sleeper. Classic good looks. Is somewhat luxurious without being ostentatious. Basically an Audi as it was built on the Audi A4 and A6 frame from the same era. Many of the same parts so it is solidly built and tight. I mean tight - 16 years old, almost 200k and no rattles. Car rides and handles better than any Volvo I've driven. Very peppy too with a turbo 4 cylinder engine yet the car also exudes a workhorse feel to it like a 240! 6 cylinder engine available as an option. Good safety ratings too.

Basically a safe, dependable, tough and fun car. Very simple compared to today's cars. And it ain't no Golf or Jetta!! I also like that it is a little different - kind of like a Saab used to be...