Reasons for wanting a GTI over R:
-Lighter, more fuel efficient
-Slightly better looking imo
-Has some features the R doesn't (sunroof, fog lights)
-R is delayed longer and might have price markup
-Wanting dark iron blue
-Not caring about AWD or slightly more horsepower
I test drove a 17 GTI and R and didn't notice a significant difference. I'm not a hardcore enthusiast like most of you all, though.
Fair enough. Good perspective.
I’d just hate to see you regret not paying another $5k for AWD. It’s a game changer for enthusiastic driving.