 We looked at a replacement for our '03 wrx wagon. List of must haves: boosted 4, room for the dog, sporty handling, good reliability, and not much over $20k.  After a lot of research, it was the best decision even if we're not "in love".  The '09 model WRX-GT isn't available yet and the present is a boring compared to our old one.  The HHR SS was a player, but not as available on the lots and prices are higher because of it.  Mini Cooper S looks dated and could be only worse in 5 years.  The is the one left standing.  See my likes and dislikes below, but it's a real shame that more manufacturers don't "get it" when it comes to fast efficient commuters.  Upscale doesn't need to mean BIG. 