I'm not in the same life situation as you, but I am also looking at getting a new car in the coming month or so. For me the choice was to go "cheap" with a mazda3/focus/impreza, or splurge a little more and get a GTI.
In the end I think I'm gonna get a GTI. It's probably the most "fun" car out of that group, and I've also wanted it for awhile. The cost isn't too far apart, and I'd rather pick a car I'd be happy with instead of regretting it. I'm nearly 30, so this might be the last chance I get for awhile to own a fun car until the minivans/suv/family sedans part of my life.
If you finally decide get a new car from that group instead of just keeping your camry, get the GTI! Potential reliability be damned!