Honestly, I LOVE the WRX. 224 HP is plenty for me (Newer version have the 265hp version). The only reason I didn't get a car that is only RWD is because it snows here. There's no way in HELL I'm going to drive a RWD in the snow. Been there, Done that lol.
The only caveat about the 08 WRX is that apparantly in 08 the EPA forced auto manufacturers to change the paint being used. On subaru's specifically it can chip very easily. Never pressure wash it. Only do it by hand. It's worth the money to go the 3M route to protect the bumper. The dealership is supposed to take care of the paint chipping issues as long as it wasn't from normal wear and tear (e.g. rocks hitting the bumper). People have had mixed success but usually find better success by contacting Subaru of America.
Nonetheless I absolutely LOVE my WRX. I think the 5.8% interest rate really makes it attractive as well 
Honestly though it handles really well. It can handle corners fairly well although the Pre 2k8 versions are better equipped handling wise. A lot of people were pissed when they changed the design. Personally I like the design. I got the sedan version and I think it looks classy as well as sporty but that's merely my opinion. I would suggest test driving one and seeing if it fits you.
Some state that the MazdaSpeed 3 did a better job with their handling and such. Really though, It comes down to what you feel comfortable with. Your money, Your Credit, Your rules. I say get what makes you happy.
I love having the steering wheel button controls, heated seats, premium sound, and 6-Disc CD changer. I will be changing that out for a Touch Screen unit though
So in short, It kicks ass!
TL;DR: YES the wrx is awesome!
@MetalguitarJames wrote:Honestly, I LOVE the WRX. 224 HP is plenty for me (Newer version have the 265hp version). The only reason I didn't get a car that is only RWD is because it snows here. There's no way in HELL I'm going to drive a RWD in the snow. Been there, Done that lol.
The only caveat about the 08 WRX is that apparantly in 08 the EPA forced auto manufacturers to change the paint being used. On subaru's specifically it can chip very easily. Never pressure wash it. Only do it by hand. It's worth the money to go the 3M route to protect the bumper. The dealership is supposed to take care of the paint chipping issues as long as it wasn't from normal wear and tear (e.g. rocks hitting the bumper). People have had mixed success but usually find better success by contacting Subaru of America.
Nonetheless I absolutely LOVE my WRX. I think the 5.8% interest rate really makes it attractive as well
Honestly though it handles really well. It can handle corners fairly well although the Pre 2k8 versions are better equipped handling wise. A lot of people were pissed when they changed the design. Personally I like the design. I got the sedan version and I think it looks classy as well as sporty but that's merely my opinion. I would suggest test driving one and seeing if it fits you.
Some state that the MazdaSpeed 3 did a better job with their handling and such. Really though, It comes down to what you feel comfortable with. Your money, Your Credit, Your rules. I say get what makes you happy.
I love having the steering wheel button controls, heated seats, premium sound, and 6-Disc CD changer. I will be changing that out for a Touch Screen unit though
So in short, It kicks ass!
TL;DR: YES the wrx is awesome!
Yeah, the AWD on the WRX would be awesome in the snow. I am now (still two years away) leaning towards a Genesis Coupe, but you are right that the RWD would suck in the snow. I just love that it comes pretty much fully loaded at around $30k new with over 300HP! I am sure it doesn't handle anywhere near as well as the WRX though, especially again with that AWD. I will surely be test driving one when the time comes though. Hope they let me open it up a little!