With the current rebates, he can get it for around $16,500.
Mr. Blu, I know two people who own the Balt. And I am thinking of buying one to save my gas bills.
One of the person has two balts, an automatic LS sedan (her husband's) and stick LS coupe (hers). She says she loves the cars. Her previous ride was a XB (the box). She says the manual balt gives her about 28 mpg combined cycle driving. She has had absolutely no problems with her. She drives a lot (25k annually).
The other person is a friend who owns a SS SC. A sweet ride. I love the SS SC, but the fuel economy numbers turned me down. But with the Turbo, which is as efficient as the 2.4L that may be on my shopping list come spring 2008.
2.2 is a great engine. 2.4 can really make you feel different. The seats have good lumbar support, and the suspension is taut but not too firm. Old EPA numbers for both the engines were same. I have surpassed old EPA numbers in all three of my cars, so I do not see why you cannot, if you drive carefully.
I drove the Saturn Astra at the drive, and although a fun car, the first gear according to me was too long, which reduced the fun in it. It clearly showed although Astra has great dynamics, the lack of powerful engine and relatively heavy mass has made the gears more inclined to fuel economy rather than performance. Fit and finish are really good.
The Golf is fun. Although it can be a gas hog. I have a colleague who owned a red 2.5 (150hp) for 9 months and is currently owning a red GTI (both 2-doors). He has 90% highway drive on a speed limit of 70mph. He said that his 2.5 returned with 28 mpg if babied, and used to be down on to 26-27 when rushing. The GTI loses another mile or two.
As for the mini, it is a great car. Although pricey, it is quirky and fun.
If you really want fun and speed, get a low miles 1997-1999 C5, which you can probably get for around 20k. As an ex owner of a C5 Z06, I can definitely tell you that the close-eyed lady can give you 23 mpg city, if you use the 1-4 shift and then put it in 6th. Plus if a ricer comes at a stop light besides you, he will not dare to smoke his tires when he sees you.