 As I get older, I place a lot more emphasis on value.  In terms of what I value, I wanted economy, acceleration, utility, and styling.  In my opinion, there is not another car that can beat the GTI.  When I did my research, the two most important criteria were gas mileage and acceleration.  So I came up with my own measure, which was average gas mileage divided  by the 0 to 60 time.  The GTI was far away the best performer in that measure.  I've owned BMWs exclusively up until this purchase.  I've got to say that I enjoy driving this car more than any of my previous 7 BMWs.  I've had this car for a month now and still can't get over the great VALUE.