VW Golf R - Neeko test drove one and loved it very sharp and responsive handling and suspension, stock for stock rated it higher than his 2011 WRX
VW Scirocco R - Great engine but i would take the Golf R as its AWD
Civic - Only if you interested in high reving screaming engines
Veloster Turbo - Very little head room, in your face styling i like it. Alot less power than your used it.
MPS 3 - Great all round package, factory LSD, makes big power factory and very quick in gear.
WRX Sti - Excellent car over kill for a daily drive more suited to a track to take full advantage of it power/handling and AWD.
Mini Cooper JCW - Only ever passengered in a cooper S and it was very fun but i have heard some horror stories about the engines.

If money wasnt an issues my pick would be the Golf R, but best all rounder and can be picked up fairly cheap would be the current gen of Mazda 3 MPS

EDIT: Test drive a 2012 WRX, just with a tune and intake they are a very quick car. Interior isnt what id call flash tho, but then you buy a wrx for the driving experience.