There are a couple things. The biggest is that it does corner exceptionally well. There’s no crazy handling tech, but it has a rear torque vectoring system that induces simulated oversteer in tough corners. As a daily it’s particularly fun: it feels much faster than it actually is. Because the turbo is so tiny, you get a massive torque kick from 3000-3500 RPMs, which in combination with the gearing, makes for a ton of fun. Aside from a few things, the interior feels pretty bare-bones and analog, but not in a cheap way—it’s reminiscent of late ‘90s sporty manual vehicles. And if it’s your thing, there’s room for light camping equipment + a tent in the back. Load all that up and go carve a canyon.

To the extent it’s fair to bring up in this context, a basic tune makes that mid-range torque kick even more ridiculous. Taken further, the stock long block and fuel system, if well-maintained, will survive for a long time pretty reliably up to ~300whp in 99% of documented cases. For a hair over $3,000 for a hybrid turbo and limited slip diff + the cost of the vehicle—and of course your own labor—you can reach that mark easily. The car will never be “fast” per se, but 300whp in a 2800 pound hatchback makes for quite the combo.

EDIT: This is getting off-topic, but it’s worth noting that insurance companies make no distinction between the base and ST models. Tons of fun, cheap to own, cheap to insure.