Should I really be considering a Fiesta?

[dadofsam]

Hi all,

A semi spec me thread really, have come into some money, around £7k, and feel it's time to replace my very trusty reliable VW Vento with something a bit smaller, smarter and faster, and I have found myself liking the Fiesta Zetec S, (02 - 08), although the,and I realise it's a different car, Leon and Golf (GT TDIs) have both appealed, so basically,

I have a budget of £7k-ish, and fancy a 3 door, nice driving, 'nippy', reliable car, does this exist for the budget?

Many thanks

 

[dadofsam]

Insurance is the main thing holding me back form the ST unfortunately, I have a 50 mile round commute daily, although hopefully this will be decreasing soon, hence why I was considering spending the majority of the money on a low mileage example to hopefully retain some value when / if I eventually come to sell it.
The Golf and Leon were more a passing thought, and were left by the wayside due to the points you all have mentioned,
Is there anything I should be looking out for on used examples, or even other options, I'll look at the polo GTI now,
Thanks