If you're looking for a reasonably priced daily driver that's fun to drive the Subaru WRX is for you. If you can swing it, the additional $12k for the WRX STI is the way to go. At the time of purchase, I wasn't able to justify the 50% more price tag for the STI - I settled with the base model 2011 WRX.
The thing I really like about the WRX is the community. Since this car is commonly modified, there is a lot of information readily available about modifications, maintenance and enthusiast meet ups.
Car Totaled 20181207 Rear ended by F-150 on 95S, MA