My mechanic also suggested a Honda or a Toyota as well!! I just bought a Honda on the weekend and should be getting it in a couple of weeks.
I have a friend who is driving a Honda with 500,000 kms on it which is ALOT and has had no major repair problems with it aside from things starting to wear out from being used so much.
I'm definitely looking forward to driving my Honda and finally getting rid of the Chevrolet Cavalier piece of crap I have.