I originally considered the 118TSI....test drove it a couple of times and even went through the operating lease paperwork before opting for the Polo GTI (have had it for 7 weeks now and have put about 2,200kms on it).

My opinion? While the 118TSI is a very nice car and in four door guise it's obviously more convenient, it felt to me to be a slightly sterile experience. Torquey enough and you were up to speed before you knew it but the lack of engine noise in the cabin (maybe a plus in most cases but not if excitement is the goal) seemed to lead to that sterile feel.

If your friend wants something that feels a bit more exciting, enjoyed the R and was thinking about a Golf GTI, I reckon the Pog would be the way to go.