Which medium-sized car would you recommend for a 70-mile daily commute including motorways?

I'm looking at buying a medium-sized car either new or a couple of years old. I travel 70 miles per day (half on motorway). I'm currently driving an Audi A4 1.9TDI, so I want something that can accelerate...

Living in the passed

Having driven quite often in South Africa, I realise the value of being able legally to overtake on either side on 3 or more lane roads. It makes lane hogging pointless and means much better use of road...