Suggestions please.

[GreatGranny]

Following on from my last topic

http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a...

Basically we are buying my B in L's car for the same value as his balloon payment.

Its a 59 S40 DRIVe with stop/start, 25k miles and FVDSH in black, I think they were all in SE spec.

We are gettig it for £6600 and similar cars go for £8k+ on Autotrader etc..

Even webuycars websites are offering £8600, obviously this will be reduced once they view but I can make £1500 quite easily.

B in L isn't bothered what I do with the car after I buy it. He needs a bigger car (3 kids) so is getting a V70 on another lease deal.

So with between £7k & £8k to spend (I need to finish my garden hence pocket £5-600)what is on offer?

Criteria:

Diesel (I do £18-20k per year)
Good in gear acceleration (Lot of driving is on A17/A47 so ability to overtake tractors/artics etc.. quickly and safely is important)
Saloon (with 3 kids need 4 doors but don't want a hatch or estate)
45+mpg capable in everyday driving
Good, steering, handling and road holding (present car is an E36 318is which has lovely steering and good grip)
Comfortable with good seats
Decent spec, ie. leather, climate, etc...
Fold down rear seats for bike (I fit my road bike in the E36....just)

Posssibles so far are:

159 (heard even the 1.9 struggles to average 40 but happy to hear the contrary)
320d
Jetta
A4

I'm intrigued by the DSG so may try one, it may be ideal for my type of driving.

Any other suggestions gratefully received.

[GreatGranny]

Anyone?