I share Johnny's recommendation, but I'll add don't be afraid to go for a WRX as opposed to a WRX STi.
Since you're looking for a car to get you through the winter and other unfair weather, I figure you'll want something that will handle the snow well. And I have to say your list of considerations will handle the snow halfway decently, at best, unless you're planning on having a set of snow tires ready to go for the winter. The 'Speed3 is a great car, but I think it might be a bit out of its element in the winter.
FWD is definitely better than RWD when it comes to snow, but I'd say go for AWD if you can, which kind of leaves you with things like Subarus and Audis.
Audi A3?:
Details of Used 2007 Audi A3, JEFFERSON, NY - Yahoo! Autos
It's pretty much a luxed-up (4dr) Golf/GTI with AWD.
EDIT: Not that I think you'd do this, but I'll say it anyways: if you're going to go for a Mk V GTI, stay away from the DSG models.