Recommendations please
Wifey has a new job. New job involves a fairly lengthy commute ~1 hour each way by motor vehicle, mostly motorway, but some town hopping. A vehicle is required to perform this function.
What it must be:
Economical - we currently have a 2JZ Lexus that tucks away juice like it really shouldn't, and she'll be lucky in a bit of traffic to get 25mpg out of it. Ideally I want something that's returning double that. On rough calcs 50mpg would make a £1500+ a year saving on fuel, so this bit is important.
Low ish running costs - nothing with 19 inch tyres at £150 a corner, for example.
Reliable - it has to be a daily, so nothing highly strung that's going to break every 15 minutes.
Practical - we're looking at a hatch really. Ideally we'd love an estate but I think that's going to put out the 'fun' category on smaller engine stuff?
Comfortable - nothing too boingy or buzzy, needs to be 80mph on the motorway capable without backache / eyes buzzing around your head.
What I'd like it to be:
Fun - doesn't have to be an absolute stormer, but something that's a decent drive that won't make me want to kill myself when I do actually use it would be nice.
Budget - not a lot. Say £3k ish but with room to move.
Any ideas appreciated