I had a '92 Saturn SL2. I bought the SL2 because I couldn't afford the Saturn sports coupe. It was a great First New Car. Sales was smooth, convenient, great service and repair, free breakfast and lunch on service visits, and the plastic body panels probably saved a little girl's life when she rode her bike in front of me. I didn't have any problems with the Saturn until the dashboard connector points cracked and the dash started sagging on the passenger side. I'd had it for 5 years when I traded it in and I probably would've kept it but I really wanted something bigger.
Leases are for businesses that can write it off as an expense. Otherwise, you're going to get hammered at the end and have nothing to show for it; no equity, no value, nothing. You're better off buying and keeping it.
If it were me, I'd get whichever car will do me right the longest. I think you'll find the Honda to be the best middle-of-the-pack car, the Focus ZX the most fun, and the Ion the most comfortable. And then I'd get the options I want. I've always believed in buying as much as I can afford in a car since I'm going to be driving it for awhile.
I'd also check the recall list to see which one has the most problems.
