Buying a new car...

I'm hoping to get a new car in the relatively near future, and get rid of the Scion xB that I had inherited.  I have some specific criterion that I would like this new vehicle to fall under, and a few models already in mind.  I also am strongly considering importing a vehicle from Japanese or European markets. This is something i'm only beginning to investigate so any experienced words are welcome. I will be tuning this vehicle.  Thoughts, ladies and gentlemen?

Price cap:
$20,000, but preferably under $10,000.

Must haves:
RWD/AWD
4/5 door

Would like:
>200hp
hatchback

Possible cars:

Lexus IS300 - I've owned one previously and loved it.  I'd like to get my hands on the hatchback version or even the Japan-only RS200 Z model.

Mitsubishi Lancer - Most likely an Evolution 5-9, but I am also a fan of the newest iteration of Ralliarts.  

Subaru Imprezza WRX - I'll take an STI, for sure, but a regular Imprezza WRX would probably do the trick and save me some money...

Mitsubishi Galant VR4 - These cars are awesome, but a little hard to find in good condition. I'm a fan of somewhat dated angular stylization of cars, and this one packs a pretty good punch.

Mazdaspeed Protege - lowest power in the bunch, I believe. Still a neat car that could be tons of fun to work with.

Mazdaspeed 3 - I know, this ones only released in FR config, and I'm breaking my own rules, but speed3's are one of the more impressively engineered cars for under $30,000. I'd love to get one new, but used will do just fine. The old body style is better any way.  

for $20,000 you wont be able to import a car. i would get either a wrx or an evo. you can get an evo 8 or 9 for under that price. and you can easily get a wrx for under that price.  
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the godfather has spoken
R.I.P. GRANDPA PITT AUG 10, 1930 - SEPT 30, 2010

Right. An Evo 9 would probably be the car I would most prefer of any that i can think of.  

However, I may not have the numbers right in my head, but I was under the impression that the cost of shipping vehicles has gone down these days, and that it only costs a few thousand dollars.  If this is the case, I'd be able to purchase a $10,000 vehicle - not a stretch for any of the cars listed - and pay around $5,000 in shipping and fees, $15,000.  It's seeming to me that this is actually a very affordable option, and one could even save money compared to same-quality domestics, if you're willing to take the risk and do the work. Is this the case, or am I way off?  

no, try 10,000 to 25,000. also, you have to deal with getting the car smog legal. there is a reason why importing an r34 is 65,000. you can buy a r34 for 15,000 to 20,000 in japan, but the rest is shipping, import fees and smog testing.  
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the godfather has spoken
R.I.P. GRANDPA PITT AUG 10, 1930 - SEPT 30, 2010