Though all-wheel drive is proliferating, not much of it has hit the compact-car class, and the WRX finds itself floating around the $25,000 mark — a good $8,000 cheaper than the VW R32 (basically a GTI with all-wheel drive) and $10,000 cheaper than the Quattro version of the Audi A3.

The WRX adds more than $7,000 to the price of an Impreza. Aside from the added performance, what this gets you is automatic climate control, leather on the steering wheel and shifter, a backseat armrest, 17-inch-alloy wheels (instead of 16-inch-steel wheels), rear disc in place of drum brakes, and sport seats, to name the biggies.

The WRX has matured into a refined sporty car that's about as well-rounded as any you'll find. Only you can decide if the WRX has it all, but most other models have a lot less.