I haven't driven that particular model but I have driven plenty of Subaru cars over the last 14 years and have to say that I have always been pretty impressed with them. I worked on numerous WRX versions but also on Legacy, Liberty, Forester and many more (not sure if you have those models in the US). WRX are great little fun cars. Lots of low down torque from the boxer motor and the AWD system was very forgiving even when pushing the car to the edge. Build quality is excellent. The non turbo Impreza is like a little brother that is just as good in most ways but the power level. Still even then I wouldn't call them weak.

About the only downside to one of these cars is the engine bay. Not very mechanic friendly. The layout of the boxer engine puts the engine it self very low in the engine bay (great for handling) and all the ancillaries piled on top. It's only a big deal in the turbo models and if you are going to do a lot of modifying. If it's a non turbo model and you are going to leave it alone then it really isn't a big deal at all. I think you will do great with that car man. Congrats and enjoy.