20 - $30,000 car suggestions

hey guys,

i’m looking at purchasing a new car.

i need something that is somewhat reliable and decent on fuel preferably.

i’ve been driving my dads old bashed up commodore throughout my Ps but I am on my full licence now and need my own car for when i start full time work.

i like the idea of a smaller car that i can fit in anywhere, but i also like having a little bit of power since im used to driving the commodore especially when compared to my mums mazda 3 lol

any suggestions? or tips on buying a first car