What is a sporty, efficient, nice looking, affordable small car?

My fiance has been looking at cars to buy. We plan to buy used and pay cash with about a $7,000 price range. First she liked the Pontiac G6 but we read tons of terrible reviews and decided against it. Aswell as the G5. She says she wants a sporty yet classy car. She likes the Cobalt alot. I have read mixed reviews about it and also questioned fuel mileage and insurance costs. Please help! She is getting discouraged and I really want to make her happy in looking for another car. I know theres one out there somewhere...