http://www.caranddriver.com/comparisons/2007-vw-gti-vs-subaru-impreza-wrx-tr-mini-cooper-s-nissan-sentra-se-r-spec-v-mazdaspeed-3-grand-touring-comparison-tests
Now in 2010 they did pick the GTI but concluded the article with an excuse for it's lack of performance with their finish in the quarter mile of only 14.9 seconds. "Volkswagen sources propose that the GTI’s appeal is a total-package thing, implying that horsepower isn’t really that important."
This last point being pretty much what the articles always say which is performance isn't everything. But even this winning review ends with "what would the GTI be with the Speed 3 motor?"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0IGWFFpI88o
I agree with the reviews that the GTI Rides better, has a nice interior and is quieter. That's cool, but not what I was looking for in a car. I enjoy the experience of the raw feel it provides. I want to hear the exhaust, feel the road a bit more and power wise, I rather enjoy the brute delivery of the power and while one of the reviews noted the MS3 goes like a go-kart but also feels like one, that's okay too. I like it. To me it's part of the experience. If I want quiet more sedate handling and a smoother delivery, I drive the Fusion. Hell, I think a ton of people here have a car that is a bit on the RAW side and that's part of what they like about them.
Back on track, I think this new Ford will be right in between the two. I've driven rental car Focus models and for what they are, they are solid. Add in better handling and a power powerful motor and I bey they are fun.