IMHO i wouldn't say the wrx, rsx or gt-s are pocket rockets.
I wouldn't compare these cars with compact cars like the focus, golf or civic in the first place because these cars are sport coupes which don't meet the comfort or space offered in the compact cars.
But if these are the only cars you are considering take your decision thinking in whats most important to you. Performance, handling, looks, aftermarket parts, etc...
If you drive always alone or maybe with your girlfriend, wife, or one friend then a sport coupe will do. But forget using a rsx for the family weekend trip.
As for my personal opinion i would take the civic because of a good balance between all of the features i look in a car. Only thing i don't like is that where i live all japanese cars are terribly overpriced and you have to sell your soul to buy spare parts.