Mirage, Pros: Cheap, fuel efficient
Mirage, Cons: Too slow for roads here, need CVT for best highway mileage

Micra, Pros: Same price as Mirage, way better equipped, way the heck more power
Micra, Cons: Slightly less than ideal fuel economy, Nissan reliability problems

Used Jetta TDI, best fuel economy negated by higher fuel prices, can purchase for $1750 but only will get a year out of it max, or $2500-$3000 and maybe last two years.

Basically I need a commuter, but the Jeep has me realizing just how few features the Mirage has. Local dealer is doing $3500 off of Micra SVs right now. Mom loves hers. I love our Mirage but it's just not functioning well enough for us with our roads and environment.

Thoughts? (Please note vehicles have a 8-10 year lifespan here max, no suggestions of Metros or Sprints or older cars. None exist)