[nicholasn]

I had a Mk5 GTI for a few years, it was a great little car (mine was an 09, so it had the TSI found in the later generations). Wouldn't mind picking up a Mk6/7 at some point, as from what I've heard the interiors were much improved over the Mk5. I'd probably go for an R though, because traction in 1st and 2nd can be an issue in the GTI lol. I'm sure the Mk8 is even more comfortable and quiet, but the little details especially inside seem to be a massive swing-and-a-miss. Also the styling is just sooooo bland...the Mk8 R looks like what the Mk8 GTI should have looked like. Still, it might be the last German hot hatch we get with a manual, as I believe Europe is DSG-only for almost every VW performance vehicle now.