honda and toyota stand parallel to each other, both are quality vehicles. likewise, mazda and nissan stand parallel and are really good cars but they are "said" to be a bit lower in quality than honda and toyota. volkswagen is a european make, good car and reliable but repair costs are higher than what you'd spend for honda, toyota, nissan, or mazda. if you ask me which one i'd go for my answer would be one of the japanese makes in best condition that my budget would allow me to buy.