What kind of wagon/hatch should I buy?

So it's getting around the time for me to buy a new(er) car because I'm ready to get rid of my 95 Ford Taurus with 123,000+ miles on it and I'm looking at purchasing a station wagon or hatchback because I've always liked them and they're very practical. I'm not going to be able to spend anymore than 17k on the car (since I don't want to be paying it off for the rest of my life) and I'd like something fairly new for that price. I'd like something that has a pretty roomy interior because I'm a tall guy and that gets better mileage than my Taurus (18 mpg). I'd appreciate any help given! Thanks again!