I have had spectacular luck with my Impreza. It's a base model 2.5i wagon with a 5 speed manual. My only complaints about the car are the stiff ride, which is my own fault for using aftermarket springs and performance suspension parts, and the lack of low end torque.
It's been a fantastic all rounder, getting me through some of the worst Vermont snow storms with ease yet also giving decent mpg during the summer (29 mpg).