1. Seems super comfortable to me (I am 175) the seats may be snug for you so give them a good test out. They hug you!
2. On long trips I get around 36mpg and that wasn't really trying to drive economically. On average mixed probably around 28.
3. No accidents but feel safe. 6 or 8 airbags, lane departure, automatic breaking, blindspot monitoring just helps keep you safer. Also you can almost stop on a dime with the strong breaks. Obviously a lot lighter than any truck so when you hit the breaks you stop.
4. No problems so far after a year ownership of the 7.5 SE
5. Definitely change the tires. The stock ones are rubbish. Pilot Sports A/S 3+ completely transform the driving experience of the car if you remotely drive spirited.
6. If you enjoy driving and get the DSG do yourself a favour and get the paddle shifter extensions. There are lots out there but I got these
https://www.uspmotorsports.com/VWR-...2C_LaiUJPDAfROqTN46tRKtF0eMqHAbIaAk0UEALw_wcB
Honestly there isn't a better all round fun car than the GTI... (Maybe the R but thats another debate).