I agree with everything you said about the GR, it does feel special with the way it drives and how it sounds.
I have to praise the steering feel and ratio. It's just right. It's sharp and the initial steering response is quick - which is a big deal, because the 22 WRX dead zone is horrible.
The steering maybe a little numb but all modern cars are like this. I believe this car makes the steering feel/weight lighter at low speed/parking lots and firms up as you pick up speed.
The cold start almost gives me goosebumps every time. I like how the car tells me when its ready to start moving once the waste gate and middle exhaust flap closes.