I have $30k to spend on a car, what should I get?

I have checked my finances and found that I have room to spend $30,000 on a new car and I am wondering what to get. I want an upscale compact sedan or possibly a hatchback. I have no kids and a girlfriend so I do not need a lot of space but I don't want a strict 2 seater. I do not want a BMW or AUDI so don't say 3 series or A4 because I just don't want to go with the crowd and buy German. I am looking at a new volvo s40 or c30 and really like them. I test drove an R design s40 and it was great. Great handling and quick controlled bursts of speed to change lanes. Should I go with Volvo or go with something else like a Saab 9'3 or MINI Countryman. What are your thoughts?