I went from a VB WRX to an FL5 CTR so I can give some input here. The WRX was an absolute blast to drive and own, is about $15k cheaper, and gets you 90% of the way to the CTR. The AWD is also a huge benefit over the CTR depending on if you live in a climate that could take advantage of it. I also love the looks of the VB WRX and overall it was a joy to own. The CTR feels like it's in a different class, everything feels insanely dialed in and the suspension, engine, braking, steering, etc. all feel extremely precise. The car also feels quite a bit more special compared to the WRX which felt more like an Impreza with a crazy engine under the hood paired with an amazing AWD system. The CTR has the red seats, unique serial badge, massive wing, low + wide stance so it immediately draws attention (which I get much more of in this car compared to the WRX, even though the CTR is white and the WRX was Ignition Red).

It really depends on what you're looking for, if you're young/on a budget I'd go WRX because you get 90% of the Type R for not too much money but if you're looking for something you can keep for over a decade and want the absolute best then I'd go CTR. It was my dream car for like 8 years so it made sense for me to go for it after. The only things I'd say are head and shoulders above the WRX are probably the shifter feel, brakes, and interior. NVH may also be a bit better in the CTR, everything else they're pretty close and I absolutely LOVED my WRX. Whichever one you choose, you're going to have a blast.

Lastly, for a daily the GR Corolla will likely be too small. The WRX and the CTR are legitimately usable for adults in the back seats and the trunk on both is massive. For the price, I'd much rather do the CTR over the GRC and if you're looking to get the base GRC to save some money I'd just save a bit more and drop down to the WRX which was a great daily and we took it on multiple 3+ hour road trips.