Could you help with ideas for cars to consider?

I am 19 years old and will be getting around $12,000 dollars next year about this time of year. I am thinking about getting a barely used car --- one that has been driven off the lot but not ruined yet. =) I am very fond of not original styled cars. I like the outback shape. I also am kind of interested in smart cars. I commute about 45 minutes one way about 4 times a week so I am looking for something that is fuel efficient. I also love to kayak so something that can carry one or two these on the top would be nice as well. Please help me. =)