IMO, The most bang for your buck will be a Focus or Fusion. Ford has come a long way and these 2 models are very high rated and within or close to your price range.

Are you thinking selling the Jeep privately or trade - in ?,,, Tell me the year - model and miles,,, zip or postal code ? and I will try to give you some further pointers.

Thanks Ray!

I've seen the Ford Fusion and it looks like a nice car. I've never really considered a Ford because of its poor history. Yes, I am going to sell my Jeep privately.It is a 2004 Liberty, leather, heated seats. 6 cd changer, sun roof. It's fully loaded. It has 50,8787 miles on it and I just put brand new tires on it. My zip code is 97006.
Thanks for the help. I really appreciate it!
Also, I don't want to finance the next car I get. I'd rather use the cash from the sell of my Jeep. I'd also appreciate some pointers on how to buy a car with cash without letting the dealer know that I am doing that.
Thanks again!
Have a great day!!

I like your come back post " Lorena " shows me you don't have a clue what your doing " lol " but hey take it as a compliment as most buyers can't find the time to study their options like you have looking for answers.

You say Ford poor quality ?,,,, have you checked consumers reports lately " the Fusion is rated #1 above imports and again I say the Focus is more value for the money in it's class than any import.

You state you want to sell the Jeep privately, there are about 12 - 2004 Jeeps for sale within 100 miles from your zip with an average asking price $13,000..

Selling your Jeep private is OK but you must consider the tax factor, between paying tax on the diff " where you to trade " compared to the full amount when buying.

As for paying cash,,, you simply leave the Q open by saying " have not decided ",,, had you have had the time to study this web site in more detail, you would not have asked this Q...