Help with new bike (and sizing)

[TigerMom]

I am looking to buy a new bike for commuting into work (about 5 miles of city riding). At first I was thinking a townie or a lighter weight cruiser would be fine, but the more I rode my husband's electra verse, I realized wanted something lightweight as well - the ride home is all uphill.

I have my eye on a specialized vita or ariel, or possibly a trek fx. Am I looking in the right direction?

A specialized vita in fabulous condition just came up on our local CL. It's a size 55, or large, and I'm 5'6"-5'7". I'm wondering if this will be too big for me? (I realize it's best to test ride, but it's kind of a haul to get out there, so I was hoping to get some feedback here first!)

I have had the Specialized Ariel because I wanted something for both road and trail but it sucked at both. The Specialized Ariel was too heavy for the road and had poor grip for trails.

If you are city riding only, get the Specialized Vita NOT the Ariel. I haven't tried Trek Fx

[Jolt]

Lots of people here seem to like the Jamis Coda, which is a flat-bar road bike and very reasonably priced. You might look at that too. Never ridden one myself, but I have heard only good reviews.

[Crankin]

I had a Coda and one of my friends had a Vita. They both are great entry level flat bar road bikes. The Coda is cheaper, I believe.
You won't go wrong with either.