Unfortunately, the Japanese makes, perhaps with the exception of Mazda (on the looks/driving front, more on newer models [handling has always been good though]) are safe and reliable, but a bit staid compared to more European rivals, but that's because they tend to spend more money on the engineering/ergonomics/useability side of their cars and less on the styling.
Whilst I am personally biased towards Mazda (generally the best looking Japanese cars as a range), you may want to look at the Mazda2 mk2 (2007-15), in particular if you wanted a bit of poke (similar in performance to the standard VAG 1.4TSi) look at the 1.5 Sport (petrol), or the last of the Mazda3 mk1 2ltr petrol saloons (TS2 or Sport, both come with climate control BTW and a bit quicker than the VAG engined cars) or early mk2 equivalents (to be honest, both are a bit rare; the hatch of the mk2 in 'Sport' trim actually doesn't look that bad and all handle well).
Personally I'd go for the Mazda2 1.5p Sport (3dr or 5dr) as it is cheaper to buy/run (for the same performance) and you'd get a far newer car, probably even one as new as 3 years old. Yes, the interior isn't as plush as the German equivalents (or the latest model for that matter), but its not too bad.
Whatever you go for, also have a look on HJ's 'Cars for sale' section as well. I saw some quite nice examples (on the face of it) of the cars I've spoken about above, though the Mazda3 saloon is, as I said, harder to find. Avoid Mazda diesels as they have had quite a lot of problems up until recently. Also make sure any car that has the Tevez ABS/stability/traction control type systems of that era (including those on German makes) have had proper repairs done on them if they've suffered a failure as they are quite expensive to put right.
Its the reason why many of us were suggesting you go for a 'less fashionable' newer Japanese car than a 'stylish' German one - far less potential problems that could put a severe dent in your wallet.
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