What car would you recommend?

Hi, I'm graduating college and I'll be moving to start a job next month, so I'll need a new car for that. After taxes and living expenses I estimate I should have more than $4k left every month. I assume it should be enough for something high 20k-low 30k. I don't have any debt and don't anticipate having any big expenses beyond this car. I'm not a big car guy but I want something reliable that will last me a long time (don't care about selling it) and I assume that something around that price range should be enough for that.

I'm thinking of a sedan or crossover but I don't have a big preference either way. As for brands, I was thinking Toyota or Honda but I don't know much about the others so let me know if there are any other brands I should be considering.

I also don't know whether to choose between gas, hybrid, or phev. My office isn't that far away and I doubt I'll be driving a lot beyond that, so I'll be driving less than 5k miles a year. I assume that means I won't be getting the benefits of no gas prices for an EV so I assumed its better to go for gas or hybrid. I'd be willing to spend a bit more for an EV but I'm not sure about the benefits (plus I'll be staying in an apartment so I have no clue how I'll charge it).

I also know basically nothing about the American car market so I'd appreciate any tips on how to get a car or negotiate a good price. Thanks!