I normally use a 2014 VW Polo petrol when I'm in Spain, good MPG handles and goes well with no problems.
It depends what type of driving you normally do and on what type of surfaces as I often go on unmade roads so steel wheels and high profile tyres are what I need.
Personally I wouldn't go for a diesel as problems with DPFs and injection systems cost a fortune to repair ! although they can do a few more MPGs the price between the two fuels is too great to make any difference in running cost with new petrol powered cars size for size.
I suppose if you buy a new car with a decent warranty and can afford to change it when it's running out then that's the way to go
