I just sold my mk7 Golf GTi performance to buy the Maser. It replaced both my 997 & winter car but after 14months it had to go. I just didn't like the way the power was delivered. I much prefer wringing the neck of a naturally aspirated engine.
I had a mild remap (superchips) which made it bonkers quick, but that was the only fun thing about it, meaning the only way to make me smile was to accelerate.
It was a nice enough place to be. Manual, heated leather, keyless, adaptive suspension, adaptive cruise etc, electronic diff.
It’s a very easy car to drive, and would return 37mpg on a motorway run.
I ruled out the Golf R when I realised they are 100kg heavier than the GTi.
Ultimately the experience has taught me that fun is not the same as fast.
Toyota GR86 or GT86 intrigue me, but I need useable rear seats.