The Cessna 152 IMHO is still the best civil basic training aeroplane even after all the years it has been around.
Very stable in flight and an ideal learning platform, it is relatively economical to operate, easy to maintain and get parts for while able to accommodate most levels of avionics fit for training. I have been flying them and instructing on them for 25 years on and off; I think they are the most forgiving of aeroplanes and for the nervous low-hour ppl student ideal as it really has to be bad before the aeroplane bites back.
The downside is always the reduced visibility because of the high wing and the uncomfortable seat backs; watch out for the weight and balance!