I would check out cars.com to see if there is something available in your area. I think all of the following car choices are great but you often can find something in that price range that offers much more than what your requirements are. Car prices have decreased significantly in many ways making new cars affordable again. The following website offers a list of great cars in your price range as well as size. http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/new-car...
I hope this helps.
Nissan Versa is also a great car in this price range. You can get a hatchback or sedan for the same price. It definitely isn't fancy, but Nissan's are known for their reliability/ durability and at just under $10,000 it is also a nice price.
Try the Scion iQ. Starts around $15,000...it's the worlds smallest 4 seater. it only has 2 doors.... I don't know if this is a deal breaker, but it's worth a look for sure.
I would suggest taking a look at Kia. Either the Soul or the Rio 5-Door (hatchback) would be a good choice. They are both in your price range, and are both excellent city cars.
Unfortunately, they are also both a little over your length requirements, both a little over 13 feet.
The only vehicles I can think of that may be smaller are the Mini (which is over budget) or a smart car (which only has 2 doors). Smart cars are pretty great for city driving, though...especially for parking....and they are well within your budget.
These are all good options... I would also recommend looking at Ford Fiesta (yeah..they still make 'em!). They are priced right around 15, and the hatchback is 160 inches long.... slightly over size, but real close!
Hi Thomas, by what you said it sounds like you were describing the Toyota Yaris almost to a T! It fits your description almost perfectly, except it's about 12.5 feet long, which is really short anyways. It's totally in your price range brand new and is available with four doors. Good luck in your search!
You should look into the Chevy Aveo (hatchback). It's available for under $15,000, and with 4 doors. Chevy makes a great car nowadays. I haven't been impressed with past Chevy models but I think they have some nice vehicles these days. I don't know the exact length but I would guess it's got to be under 12 feet.
It is going to be tough to find a car with four doors under 11.5 feet. I am in the same boat. I am looking for a good city car. I started with link above. There is a lot of information to go through on this site, but it is a good starting point for car shopping. I think I am going to go with the Ford Fiesta. It is not exactly the most stylish car out there, but ford usually puts out a good product and it is within my price range. In my opinion safety and size are the most important things when it comes to city driving. The fiesta got outstanding safety marks and it measures right around 14.5 feet. It might not be exactly what you are looking for, but it is worth checking out. Hope this helps.