Another what car thread, for my sister

My sister's 300k honda civic she bought new started making some "terrible noises". She's been talking about getting a new car for a few months now because the civic was a bit tight with her first baby and supporting gear.

She's located in NC, near Raleigh and is looking to spend about 16-18k. With my family discount she can get a new Escape for right around 18k with all the rebates. Any ideas on cars or specific links to nearby gems?

I'd like it to be as reliable as a brick and deal with a 45 or so minute commute on a regular basis.

Focuses can be had dirt cheap.

I just went through this with my mom, she was shopping based on price (see my thread here) Not sure if she wants a mommy SUV, or what her other requirements are but the Elantra has a nice sized trunk and good interior space, good MPG and that warranty. I got her into a 2015 for about $400 more than the low number of your range. Including taxes and fees.

Does she need a new vehicle? A pre-owned Nissan Rogue might be something to look at. Should have plenty of room for munchkin and related gear:

http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/vehicledetails.xhtml?zip=27587&endYear=2016&modelCode1=ROGUE&showcaseOwnerId=68420231&startYear=1981&makeCode1=NISSAN&searchRadius=25&maxPrice=16000&mmt=%5BNISSAN%5BROGUE%5B%5D%5D%5B%5D%5D&listingId=391665111&Log=0

http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/vehicledetails.xhtml?zip=27587&endYear=2016&modelCode1=ROGUE&showcaseOwnerId=68420231&startYear=1981&makeCode1=NISSAN&searchRadius=25&maxPrice=16000&mmt=%5BNISSAN%5BROGUE%5B%5D%5D%5B%5D%5D&listingId=388764154&Log=0

http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/vehicledetails.xhtml?zip=27587&endYear=2016&modelCode1=ROGUE&showcaseOwnerId=68420231&startYear=1981&makeCode1=NISSAN&searchRadius=25&maxPrice=16000&mmt=%5BNISSAN%5BROGUE%5B%5D%5D%5B%5D%5D&listingId=394059751&Log=0