Best fun, practical, economical small car ?

[andys]

Seriously considering getting a new motor (will be a 2nd car as we have a scenic diesel) I always wanted a 5 th gen golf gti, but insurance and petrol prices put me off now.

Anyone recommend a small practical car that would make a good runabout and returns decent mpg ? Ideally something fun to drive with decent performance.

Was looking at mini diesel and Audi A1 diesel, but they only have 2 seats in the rear and I need 3. Maybe a golf diesel ? Only wanted to spend around 10k tops ideally. the less the better - just want something that's reliable, safe etc.

Cheers
Andy