Thanks for the various comments on the various topics – keep 'em coming! (although this is looking like being increasingly in the wrong forum).
Looking for a reasonable pace, reasonable economy engine (1.4 TSI VW 160bhp ticks both for me). I'd rather have petrol than diesel, but if getting a C30, would probably go for the 2.0D diesel R-Design, so not totally against diesel. Think the "green" C30 1.6D might be a bit weedy for my A road blasts around Scotland.
Might look at the Civic Type S too. I'm sure it's very good (and I suggested a friend get the previous civic), but the current style doesn't really do it for me though.
I have a boot rack on the micra, and prefer the idea of the simplicity of roof bars next time around (would only have a couple of lightweight XC bikes on it, no big heavy DH stuff). Lots of votes for a towbar though, so will examine further. Would rather not obstruct the boot though, and I guess towbar + a fancy rack that folds down = expensive.