Bearing in mind that there are loads of different types and makes of car out there, and different people having different needs, so:
Your budget will dictate to a certain degree what kind of car you can have.
VW Golfs have a very good reputation and are popular but are usually pricier because of their popularity. They hold their value well and you will pay more if you get one from a franchised dealer. And you'll obviously pay more for a diesel or automatic.
Other makes equivalent to Golfs are: Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Vauxhall Astra, Toyota Auris, Skoda Fabia etc.
Nowadays, most makes of car are fairly reliable but I'm personally biased towards Japanese cars.
Don't know where you intend to get your car but your pennies and pounds will obviously go further in a private deal, if you're confident enough to try it.
Hope this has been of help. Good luck.