my .02
I have had my ti for almost 3 months and am loving it.
After doing research and looking at many cars I knew I wanted a BMW 318. I decided on a TI because of it's unique look and a great mixture of being fun and practical at the same time. Hauling stuff is easy with the hatch and you can fit a lot in there. MPG is good and it is still a blast to drive. Not actually a fast car, but it feels quick and you don't have to slow down much for corners.
You feel more connected to the engine, brakes and road unlike most newer cars. I test drove many when deciding on a car, all 2000 or newer; RSX, TC, Madza 3, Prelude, Accord coupe. I wanted to spend less that $8k and the 318ti was the best bang for the buck I could find and it cost only half of my budget. Also, FWD never has felt right to me.
Good luck with your search.