Of course, new cars will be much more reliable than 2nd hand in the long run. They may be almost twice as pricey, but you still get your money's worth. Also, cars are easier to drive and park than pick-ups. I should also recommend that you get an automatic first, but it's also ideal to get used to a manual.

For new cars:
-Corolla Altis 1.6 is great and reliable, but you might have a hard time coping up with its drooping front nose.

-Lynx is more like a girl's car. GSi will do, but get the Ghia if you want the extra features.

-The new Lancer is also a nice alternative. Get the MX!

-Any BMW!

For 2nd hand cars:
-Corolla GLi, the easiest and cheapest to maintain in the 1.6-liter segment. Corolla XE also has power steering but no automatic transmission option.

-Civic SiR, if you want great speed. The previous Civic LXi and VTi models are also of good reliability, but parts are not as cheap and abundant as Toyotas.

-The previous model BMW 316, a bit slow and expensive to maintain but seriously fun.