ExpressLex

Time has finally come, new aka used car shopping lol, so i narrowed down my options and would like all opinions good or bad, reliability etc. Budget is around 30k ball park. Mods are always forthcoming in future, summer only vehicle that will be built as a daily with unique taste, not to be raced or tracked but with show and shine appeal. Also this vehicle 10 years+ keeper, family oriented down the road.

1ST option, 2011 STI sedan (hatch if price is right)
market valve is 25-30k of what I've seen
mods range in price, lots of goodies on the forums
also I've heard on ring land cracks, any insight on this issue?

2ND option 2012 IS350 F-SPORT RWD
market valve is 30-32k
always loved this car,
vision would be vip/aggressive stance
air bag setup in future

Any other vehicle in mind please list, bmw, audi, mercedes is automatic NO, goal is to buy a 4 door long term car, maintenance and mod labour doesn't matter to me, not let the bashing start lol, Thanks