kcryan,
I think coming off a C class Merc, you may find the Subie a little spartan and unrefined inside. It is relatively stripped inside, both in content and materials quality. But it is one extremely fun ride, especially at its price point. I don't think I could live with it day to day, but I am a bit older than the target market and value the cockpit and smaller details as much as the engine compartment. Were it slightly bigger, more refined and comfortable, better optioned and more luxurious, I'd drive a WRX. In fact, I do. It's an S60R. This is no knock on the WRX; it can run with an R all day long for a lot less money.
Bear in mind that to approximate the luxury and comfort levels you are accustomed to requires added weight, and that will sap performance unless you increase power accordingly. That costs more money. Some weight helps winter performance, depending on how the chassis is tuned. Added weight also compromises handling dynamics, and past a certain point those compromises cannot be overcome. Conversely, lighter vehicles and those with an off-balanced weight to power delivery profile do not grip or handle as well in winter conditions. So as you can see, your diverse priorities set up competing compromises.
I think you are on the right track with an AWD platform. This will assist in managing higher outputs in winter conditions. I would also lean towards forced induction powerplants based on your cooler geographics. This will keep the power to weight ratio favorable vs. a larger NA engine and can offset some of the weight gains of the AWD system and other luxury fat. There's a reason turbos are so favored by the Swedes and some Germans, who live in cooler climates such as yours. Take advantage of it.
I'm sure you know all this, but they appear to be factors that are missed in some of the recommendations.
I'm also sure that you are not confining yourself to just coupes, as you would eliminate most choices by doing so.