Leather

Actually, the problem is more the number of viable options rather than the lack of them. Focusing on hatchbacks as likely to give you the most bang for your buck, one that comes to mind is a 2014 or newer Mazda3 Touring. Vinyl seats, very good fuel economy, and above-average reliability. You might even be able to find a 2017 within your price range.

Other possibilities include the Hyundai Elantra GT (2014 or later), Kia Soul (2014 or later), and Toyota Prius (you'd have to buy a relatively old example of the last to be within your price cap).

I think a Mazda3 would be a great option as Michael suggested. Get a 2014 or newer. My younger son has a 2015 i Touring sedan and my older son has a 2017 GT Hatch. Really nice-driving, reliable cars and they look really nice as well. 2017 added some sound deadening and a softer ride. I would recommend those more, but they may not be in your budget.

Also the Prius would be excellent on gas, comfortable, and spacious. However, they hold their value and are expensive used. You'd need to get an early 3rd gen or late 2nd gen most likely, which means that the HV battery will need to be replaced soon. It would be ideal to get one with the battery already replaced. The rest of the car holds up very well. The batteries need to be replaced after 10-12 years regardless of mileage. Mileage doesn't matter much with these, and age does matter. It fulfills your top three requirements.

The Soul and Elantra GT have a stiffer and less composed rides, which was something you didn't want. Otherwise they are great cars and the Soul is spacious inside. They depreciate quickly so they are great on the used market. Reliable, too.