I think Nissan makes the best CVT, smallest, quietest, most efficient, and most reliable.
Subaru makes the best AWD system. But has the oddball Boxer engine, that has it's minuses (can't think of the pluses other than lower center of gravity).
I consider Subaru to be a less common brand, so I would look more mainstream if you want cheap parts and ready service.
After studying auto mechanics it really allows you to appreciate the price differences and availability of parts.
Those two factors alone make car shopping much easier.
I had a buddy get a set of Ceramic brake pads for the front of his old Toyota Corolla for 27$. We did a pad swap with all the trimmings (anti-squeek, anti-seize where needed, torque wrench, and lubed the sliders) in less than 45mins, taking our sweet time and pulling out all the bolts and putting anti-seize on them and using a torque wrench.
Imagine. A 27$ brake job when you know where you can get away with needless costs.
Some brands you need very deep pockets for basic parts and service.