I'm wondering, from reviews and personal experience, what good, small, economical first car would be best for me.

My commute is around 15 miles on A roads, with the occasional longer stint on the motorway. I also travel to London/Lancaster on occasion from Nottingham. I'm 6'3" and 21 with 0 NCB, so the need for cheap(er) insurance is a must, with a budget of around £5,500 - £6,500 second hand.