 Having owned/bought 19 new cars, and being many different brands, the last 3 were GTIs (1995 VR6, 1999.5 VR6, and 2006.5) and for a good reason.  Not much compares with the GTIs as far as being true "driver's cars" and when condidering the price of Audi, BMW, & Mercedes, nothing compares.  The new GTI is another great evolution over the last. I thought I could never go without the VR6, but the new 2.0 proved me wrong; it has more / great power & torque, better gas mileage & a cool exhaust note. I'm getting 29+ mpg (combined 85+mph California freeways & stop & go). The stereo sounds great and the leather/Top Sport Seats are the most comfortable seats I've ever sat in.