Have you considered an Auris?The problem is I need an estate for work use which as far as I can see leaves me (within budget at least) with an Auris or... well, an Auris.
Kia Optima is another you could look at, as I'm guessing things like the Merc C300h/C350e or Volvo V60 TEH are out of your 'budget'
The company I work for buys its company cars nearly new unfortunately and used Optimas seem very few and far between. I don't have a budget as such but judging by previous cars to my salary grade (Focus Zetec and Passat S) any hybrid will probably be deemed too expensive.