having spent the last nine years messing about with my xr2 into it's current high powered spec, i'm at the end of the road with it, no spare cash these days to keep evolving it getting more power and keeping it in rubber. then there is time, got a kiddie now and want to spend time with her instead of tinkering with my hobby.

Down to business then, i want something reasonably new, circa 2005 onwards, four doors would be ideal for those days out with the misses and kiddie.
I want it to be able to shift pretty well, but not cost the earth to run, so thinking 3.0tdi minimum power, audi, bmw etc. something with a little prestige.
budget is around 7-8k, which is what i'd get breaking my project and also have a 53 plate 206 xsi to trade in too.
i did have a flick through the net and came up with a6, 330d, m3 for something a little naughtier, hard top convertible could be an option, also looked briefly at monaros, but would get at best the 5.7 one and fuel economy would be pretty bad wouldn't it
what do you guys suggest?