Well done Lawsy, I'm surprised as I recall you were clearly favouring the S3 (as was i at one point! $$ saving and great R package/drive got me to switch).
Some initial thoughts:
Pro's
- DSG is lightning fast, faultless, next level compared to my MK6 GTI DSG (the GTI was very good no issues)
- car feels absolutely planted and stable on the road, chassis just feels balanced and locked in.
- further to this damping is spot on, absorbs bumps/imperfections much better than my MK6 GTI.
- no creaks. groans, chassis flex over speed bumps, driveways etc, no rattles, MK6 GTI very creaking and noisy in comparison (had sunroof ? this didn't help and one key reason I choose to forego roof this time around, apart from losing $ on options on resale)
- leather seats are comfortable and supportive, dont miss electric controls as plenty of micro adjustments.
- Car looks beautiful, very sharp and well finished, much meaner/tougher presence in the flesh.
- Nav, MFD and in car settings etc work well and are very quick/easy to use.
- Engine/exhaust sounds great, growly and angry, lovely induction note as the turbo spools.
- Steering is precise and gives good feedback, brakes spot on.
- Bixenon and LED driving lights are superb (never had them before)
- Just back from a night drive, interior beautifully lit with plenty of blues LED lights/dials and classy switch lights.
Cons:
- ? Soundaktor a bit full on, will have to see how this goes over the next few weeks.
- Nav screen is small as we all know, large screen Discover Pro would have been the icing on the cake of what is a sensational car.
Overall
Despite some late second thoughts about choosing the more "sensible" GTI Performance, the new R rocks and sits at the pinnacle of hot hatches (dont rely on me, many reviews place it right at the top). Its represents a huge leap on the MK6 in all levels, beautifully planted and responsive, a rocket when you want, still retains a light go-carting feel but with fantastic dynamics and performance
Originally Posted by andrew7
Well done Lawsy, I'm surprised as I recall you were clearly favouring the S3 (as was i at one point! $$ saving and great R package/drive got me to switch).
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