Ive had lots of friends with 05 STis and they liked them... not too many issues with things breaking or repairs. You didnt mention it, but since you said STi, have you looked at Evo VIIIs? They are about the same price, I found them more enjoyable to drive and looked better. Still AWD, turbo, four door, blah blah blah
If I had to pick another new car I would get another Evo. I owned one for awhile and only sold it because I moved across country and didnt want to take it with me. The engines are easy to build and very strong. They have been using the same engine since 1989 so you know its tried and true.