Dreaded call from the mechanic

My beloved car is no more;(  Transmission needs to be replaced and they want 2400 to do it and I don't wantt to put that much into a 2002 car with 128,000 miles on it. I was hoping to keep it at least another couple of years, I dread having a car payment again.  So car shopping this weekend, which I dread with a passion. 

 I need some advice on cars. My car is a jetta, which I love dearly. I don't know if I should get another one or get a VW Beetle, Honda Civic or a Corolla.  The warranty is longer on VW's but they don't have as good MPG as Civics or Corollas. I don't care to much for the looks of Civics or Corollas but they have great resale and last forever. As for looks and driving I love a VW.  Should I go ahead and have my midlife crisis and get a VW Bug, I can always pawn it off on my daughter in 4yrs, she'll be driving by then. I know they are small but they are so adorable. I worry about safety with my kids riding with me.

So I know somebody on my flist drives one of these cars. If you do, please tell me what you think of them.

hugs,
Dix