If you are after practicality as well as affordability, a 2010 Mazda 3 hatch is where you should go. Plenty of fun-to-drive, great interior, and lots of space. The hatches have the 2.5L which is a pretty good sized engine for its class. Avoid the MazdaSpeed version however unless you really NEED the power and don't mind a rough ride. The 'speed versions are more prone to issues, maintenance will be more, and you won't be able to find used ones in your price range. Oh, and torque steer is horrid.
I've actually been thoroughly searching for a 2010 Mazda 3 hatch as a second commuter car, and they're not quite down to your range yet. The cheapest I found was around $17k, but if you're willing to go the sedan route and with the smaller engine, you might hit your range.
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