An A3 would be rather nice or even that flash Audi in the picture but just getting back into work after two years out redundant so already pushing the budget at £6k. Quite fancied a fast Focus with the 4WD but sadly not a realistic option.
Had a new Yaris as a courtesy car while they were assessing my one and it is much nicer. Mine did struggle a bit on motorways but was a great runabout in town and short journeys. Will have a look at Auris. Thought a Civic might be a bit expensive unless go for something pretty old. Ideally, looking for something reasonably new to hang on to for as long as possible. Really there is a lot of choice as said, Fabia, Polo etc. Too much really for an indecisive person like me.