I posted in another thread, I'm thinking about another car to drive to/from work at least half the time because I do drive so far (35 miles each way). It puts a lot of miles on my X1, and I want it to last a long time. Miata, Mini, or Z4 would be nice. I would much prefer a manual gearbox, but such is life.
Maintenance costs do add up pretty quickly. If you don't do it yourself, I guess an oil change would cost that much. My first oil change I did on my own was $80, and future ones I anticipate $20-35. I haven't done the other services, but it definitely adds up if you want to do all the maintenance (plugs, brake / diff / transfer case fluid). I expect the first time I do those to be the most expensive also, with future costs being lower.
I'm not saying you are wrong on real world MPG, but the ratings by the manufacturer or EPA are spot on with the 35i.
A genesis coupe, rated 18/27
https://www.caranddriver.com/hyundai/genesis-coupe
Base 1lt Stingray, rated 16/25
http://www.chevrolet.com/byo-vc/clie...tyleOne=391047