Man, I can't believe I forgot to mention FWD as another negative on the GTI. It's definitely a concern, along with the boy racer image and smallish size I mentioned before.
I try and stay indifferent when it comes to things like manual vs. auto or NA vs. forced induction but RWD cars are just better to drive and I can see that. When I got the IS, as slow as it is, I really noticed and enjoyed the RWD feeling over what I got from the FWD RSX I had before.
So I would like a RWD again, I really would. But I dunno, I think I might be just a bit too snobby for a Hyundai. Don't get me wrong, I'm not looking at VW because I think "ZOMG German engineered perfection" but I guess the same reason that makes me not want a Ford is making me not want a Hyundai. I guess I am slightly image conscious then...
Too bad VW don't sell the R in North America. I was hoping maybe at least the Yanks would get it, but upon doing some research it seems like other than cheaper prices their car buying experience is as shit as in Canada.
Edit: It
appears it will actually go on sale in North America, but at some point in the future.