Well, just having brought my wrx with PPP on it, on a 54 plate, i have to say i am extremely happy with it. I love it. Enough power, not too quick for the missus, not too loud for the missus, and drives really well. Mine is also the main family car. Having said all of that, i'm not sure that one day I'm going to wake up still wanting an STI. As standard i think they look better, and i know already that a 6th gear would come in handy, but i think you will be happy with either. If i had the extra money, i would probably have got an STI. Not having driven one yet though, i really am just basing it on what i've heard from others, and on looks.