i would stay away from honda, they still have automatic gearbox problems to this day, AND in their expensive-with-no-value (TL still use physical keys and no vented seats vs keyless ignition and standard vented seats like lexus) Acura line as well
unless you find a stick honda but people want a fortune like you said
+1 nissan versa, but with a stick, because they put in a tall 6th gear specifically for highway cruising