WRX only 'suffers' from poor…
WRX only 'suffers' from poor reliability because people tune and modify them. Apart from Jeeps, few other cars have the extensive catalog of go-fast and appearance parts as the WRX has. The 2.4L engine seems to have no reliability issues (per CR) in other cars, nor does the 6-speed manual (now unique to the WRX).
Many WRX fans (both those who actually own the car, and those who just pretend they own one) focus too much on numbers and not the driving experience. Subaru has made the WRX a better drivers car all around. They have also integrated it into the rest of their lineup, similar to what manufacturers like VW/Audi and Volvo have been doing for a while. One or two basic platforms for a car and a simple line up of engine choices.
Life isn't drag racing Civic Type-Rs. If you only want that go buy a V8 Camaro or Mustang and troggishly punch the gas pedal at every stop light.
Oh yes, I just bought a WRX! I never would have considered the last model. Terrible stock tuning, uneven power band and difficult to drive smoothly.