I am helping my girlfriend find a car, and we're looking at around 12-15k. So far the Matrix XR and the Scion xA looks the best for her. We also tried VW Golf, Chrys PT Cruiser, and Echo.

She basically wants just a car with good MPG, and power door/windows/steering.

Matrix Pros: Roomy for a little car, 130HP, 29/36MPG pretty good,
Cons: XR base price around 15k, which is the edge of our budget.

Scion xA Pros: Everything she likes standard, 32/38MPG great, 13k base price right in the budget.

Cons: Small, 108HP(but weighs less)

I would go for the Matrix...between those two. I really do like the xA, but the matrix has more room and [has more things standard?]. The xA may be the best for her - depends on what she is going for.