Following a recent service and MoT of my 10-year-old Mitsubishi Galant estate, my trusted mechanic suggested it was entering its final year of reliable motoring. It has been a very safe, comfortable and reliable family car for the last seven years, and the prospect of finding a long term replacement in the next 12 months is daunting (especially as my budget is limited - ideally no more than £4000).

The bulk of my approx 8-9000 a year mileage is from a short rural commute of 22 miles and much of the rest is generated in very short trips. As the Galant is fairly heavy on fuel I was hoping for something more frugal, but a bit more responsive and interesting to drive. I am very interested in sporty Mondeos like the Mondeo TDCI Zetec S, but I don't think my mileage justifies a diesel. Any suggestions for a budget lively family drive?