That is true! they have enough share of problems!
Hondas, and Toyota is one of most realiable vehicles and usually gets one of best MPG.
How about VW diesel? They usually gets better mileage, and that diesel is now cheaper than gas! You could get 50 to 65MPG on diesel. MPG depends on either type of diesel engine (Regular or Turbo). Turbo uses more diesel than regular, but gives you little more power. Don't expect that VW diesel to have power! It does have torque but not much HP (Approx 70HP).
For me Im sticking with my pu truck. Right now, I just discovered what the real problem is... It's engine is shot! Now in process of getting new engine thrown in. I was somewhat in rush to get this done because my pu truck gets better mileage than my jeep cherokee!