Help me with my thinking

[Mannginger]

Hey folks

So I'm shortly going to be returning to the UK from Dubai with no job after I quit in a huff from my new job. I probably have funds for around a year or so without worring but will be needing a car until I've got another job pinned down.

I do like cars (duh) so ideally want something a bit interesting instead of a Dacia etc.

My ideal would be:
Priced between 5-10k but would consider up to 15k for somethng that's really good
Automatic
ULEZ compliant
Decent fun to drive or interesting
Modern (eg cameras / Android Auto)
Not an MPV/SUV
Not huge (my folks live over a tiny bridge so think 3-series size max)

We have no kids but as an only car it may be required to do the odd tip run / airport pick up. I don't rule out a 2 seater but probably be the least likely option.

I'm not used to high mileage cars so am a bit daunted by the prospect of 100K+ type cars but maybe you can help me off that ledge?

Cars I've considered / am considering include

Golf / Polo GTI
Mini Cooper
Jaguar XE
BMW 3 series / audi A4 / Merc C class etc

Basically I think I've got too many options and need to narrow it down so I open it up to the PH collective for some ideas / challenges on my filters and biases.

Cheers in advance

Edited by Mannginger on Tuesday 9th September 14:12

[Mr_Megalomaniac]

IME I would suggest that for a longer term you'd be better off with a petrol XE, or the 3 series.
If you're looking for something a bit cheaper to run and insure then definitely the Golf.