New Car Help (with pole)

You said you're treating yourself so buy the one that brings you the most enjoyment to look at, sit in, and drive. Only you can determine that for yourself. Get the extended warranty and keep up with scheduled maintenance. Both are great options in their own right. Don't make a choice out of concern about something that only might happen. If you wanted to be practical, or you're worried about maintenance costs, you'd buy a Civic. You're not making a forever commitment so if problems eventually arise, move on to something else. Enjoy the hell out of whichever one you get.

I'm also a fan of smaller cars and like them both. I'd probably get the Audi.