I have a 9th gen '05 model, I did consider getting the 10th gen sedan model (conquest in manual). I took one for a spin to see how it went; the manual went hard enough I suppose but the dynamics were so very very much better than the '05 I have...the best ride I have ever experienced, the handling and steering whilst not as good as my brother's '01 astina was noticeably better. Gearshift was great, the interior design was top-notch. Resons why I did not get it? well... the hatch was too small for my needs and I don't find the sedan at all attractive (well, for now at least), looks too american. That and the changeover would have meant that my new house would need to be put back 9 months or so..... as for mods I suppose one could go down the track of lowering/big wheels/ big stereo. Unlike on the 9th gen, the 10th gen conquest is worth it - for $4500 you get cruise control, alloys, leather wheel, shift knob, safety pack and, yes, power rear windows. That and they are already doing deals on conquests....