Advice needed!

[Adrally7]

After a few regretful used car experiences in the last few years, I need to get something that will meet my needs and not result in me kicking myself 6 months later because of poor choices!

I’m now a divorced single parent with a 6 year old and financial situation and car needs have changed. I need a car that will be practical enough for small family life, reasonably comfortable but that will put a smile on my face once in a while.
Budget is no more than £6-7k. The list of must haves…

Petrol
Good sized boot
Mpg high 20s around town and high 40s on motorway
Would prefer not to have to pay more than £350 tax a year
Reliable as possible
Manual (unless a very well looked after auto dsg that isn’t too much thirstier)

Would like but not essential…

Fun enough to drive
Reasonably quick
Quite comfortable especially for motorway
Heated seats
Either hatch or estate, though leaning towards hatch
Decent sound system

I’m currently running a remapped Mondeo titanium 2.5. It’s got the space, the grunt and it’s quite comfortable. But it’s too loud, and way too thirsty! I cant afford to run it anymore and the noise (which was fun at first), is just too overpowering.

I’ve been considering Audi A3s (though the lack of rear door bins and cup holders is off putting)
Ford focus zetec s (surprisingly small boot)
Mazda 3 or 6

Any other suggestions?

Cheers

[GreatGranny]

Astra?

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202301042...

[Adrally7]

GreatGranny said:

Astra?

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202301042...

Yeah did consider these. Looks ok. On the higher end of my budget and not sure if the extra money is worth it. I’ve heard the engines are a bit weedy.

[Adrally7]

On second thoughts I quite like the Astra now I’ve done a bit more research but there’s one thing that concerns me. It’s the OnStar thing? I’m not particularly keen on being tracked wherever I go.