Great research and I applaud that you know what you want and need!!
My recommendation is the Honda Fit. Not sure about the price ... but it's right around that mark. Seat backs are adjustable to perfectly straight to tilted back. Mileage is outstanding, I'm currently at 40+ (I do mostly highway driving - if I do ALL highway on a long trip I'm around 43MPG). Headlights are on the left steering wheel lever. Uses a real key. Reliability is ranked very high - it's a Honda.
Tons of room in the back. 4 seater but the seats fold COMPLETELY flat. Front seats are roomey (to me).
Outstanding visibility. The windshield is raked plus there are side windows in the front. Back window is perpendicular so nothing obstructs rear view.