CTR's at your budget would provide bullet proof reliable fun, still look good, bit blan inside but made up for by the awsome seats and fantastic gear stick position, very nice ride off the power and great handling on the power - had three in my family and they have been adictive cars.

Cupra R's imo still look the part in the right colour.

Megans seem to be a bit troublesome, that said, my mate has an F1 and that has been spot on, rapid little thing as well.

Golf imo looks bland

S3's look good and you would get a nice one for the money, I have the newish shaped S-line and it is a nice place to be but wouldn't say it was or feels as rapid as things like the CTR's, maybe down to the build quality, not sure how quick the S3 earlier shape would be in comparison.

At your budget thought i would be looking for a mint car over the newest car if that makes sense.