Obviously there is lots of choice and everyone has their own bracket in terms of style and cost, but straightforward, good quality mid range cars worth considering include:
Nissan Altima
Honda Accord or Civic
Mazda 6
Volkswgan Golf

Mid range SUV's include:
Toyota RAV 4
KIA Sorento
Honda CRV

There are many more options, but for day to day driving in the price range you mention, I would certainly go here first.