As good as the Civic Si is, the competition hasn't stood still, and there are some serious challenges out there. Perhaps the strongest contender is the Volkswagen GTI. Yes, we know it's a hatchback, but it's also available with five doors, and even though it costs more it's still competitive price-wise if you don't go nuts with the options sheet. You also get an engine with generous amounts of torque, something that is sorely lacking in the Si. Also in the mix is the Subaru WRX, with standard all-wheel drive and a more powerful and torquey engine offsetting its price premium. The upcoming Sentra SE-R Spec V and the limited-edition Mazdaspeed3 also fall into the same price and performance category.