What car for 3k or less for a 21 year old?

[Chiddo]

I'm due to sell my Golf R32 shortly, had my fun it in but my lord does it drink! Plus I want to save up for a house purchase and I've come to realise it doesn't matter what car you drive now, only person your kidding is yourself!

Anyway, ideally i am looking for:

5 door,
hatback, don't mind a saloon,
Good on fuel
Reasonable on insurance
Petrol/Diesel don't mind
Budget 3k.

Many thanks

[homologeo]

I came to a similar realisation a few years ago, whilst attempting to save for a house, engagement and wedding.

I ended up with a hugely boring, hugely reliable polo 1.2 12V; In 3 years of ownership, I've enjoyed cheap tax, insurance and maintenance. I could have enjoyed some of those benefits with a milder downgrade, but I think you may as well go uber-cheap, rather than trying to find a middle ground.

Just buy the cheapest, slowest, newest, lowest mileage volkswagen you can find.

[Parabola]

Just bought a car with that exact spec for my GF.
56 plate mk4 VW Polo 1.2S (Facelift, 3 cylinder) £2970