^^^ All great posts and great feedback. I will take it all into consideration. I'm impressed that several of you like the GTI.
Considering all of the posts thus far, I'm leaning toward a 128i w/M sport pkg, with the Audi A3 & the GTI following close behind. I suppose I am a little brand loyal. I sort of want a Bimmer, but the Audi/GTI are impressive, especially given their lower price point, and their FWD benefits in snow.
I will drop my price point to less than $40k, so the 135i will lose out.
The C30 is out.
I will wait until Feb. 2012 to order a car to my specs. This will be the first car that I will order spec'd out the way i want it... This will be fun!
Thanks all for your valuable input.
Cheers,
BB