£5k budget - hatch/estate - auto preferred

[Matt_Zeus]

Have a 98 ford Puma for fun and general local driving. Will take it off the road for the winter to avoid the salt!
Need something for mainly short daily trips, and 250mile motorway trips every couple of weeks.

Will also be dog / tip car. I think Diesel may give DPF issues with this usage?
All opinions welcome! Auto isn't a deal breaker

• edit - I'm near Birmingham

Cheers!

Edited by Matt_Zeus on Saturday 9th August 22:17