The only question left on mine (and probably most buyer's) minds is: why or why not this versus a Fiesta/Focus ST, or GTI? Assuming you've already decided that a FWD hatchback is your thing and don't want to make this difficult considering alternatives.

I've been looking at these, but I'd avoid the F1 transmission if you're looking to buy a supercar cheaply. F1s burn through clutches doing simple things like K-turns or parallel parking, so if you use one of these in a city it's a major downside.

I didn't realize there was one, thanks!

I disagree again, albeit with the distinction that I'm only discussing MKVI USA-spec Golfs here. I drove a 2.5, a GTI and bought the TDI and there was no appreciable difference at idle EXCEPT at startup in cooler temps. After 5 minutes the TDI's idle difference is noticeable, but not worse per se than either car.

Funny, I much preferred sitting in traffic in an 06 Sierra 2500 HD Double Cab with a full bed than the new Tahoe. I had one a few months (borrowed the in-laws farm truck) and drove it all around Chicago one winter. It was great! Once you get used to the acceleration, you just let the traffic flow around you.

Maybe an older one, my MKVI is pretty damn quiet and smooth at idle, even at startup.

I loved my NC2 Miata in traffic! At least with the top down. Top up the blind spots were a problem when I needed to make lane changes out of a stopped lane. Plus drivers tend not to see little cars.

They've chased all the niches, and AWD M is probably the last one they have yet to exploit.

I'm actually really interested in the outcome of the QOD because I've gone through 6 cars now in 5 years for shitty Chicago traffic slogs and nothing has been ideal. So far the best is my latest: a MK6 Golf TDI. The upcoming AWD TDI Crosstrek cars are looking really appealing because of that Haldex all wheel traction…

Having tried traffic in the latest Tahoe twin I'd disagree. That was just too much vehicle for lane changes, merging, or keeping consistent braking distance. Plus the ride on the Tahoe LTZ at least (with Magneride Shocks) was actually pretty shitty. Maybe it was the 20"+ wheels but the Escalade gets those too.

My boss has one to sit in traffic, well a 4.2 not the TDI. Seems to be nice for that job and road trips. Won't fit in my city two car garage though.

Years ago when I had an RSX, a female passenger after a party somehow managed to get glitter on her bum and therefore all over the perforated leather seats of the car.

Soft-top NC Miatas have a similar issue, one where leaves and twigs block proper drainage.

Here's a mindfuck: We all know McLaren, but does anyone remember the M6/GT? Bruce McLaren drove one, and at least 2 more were built by the group that was responsible for Mclaren's 60's race cars.

I want to make the ultimate rat rod out of that Bugatti T57!!!

I'm glad someone made this point in print, I was getting tired of saying it to everyone who cared.

All they had to do is make a "lego" Toyota Hilux and put that gun/racist-stereotyped-terrorist-dude in the back and had a win.

I'm ok with this.

To keep these numbers in perspective, it cost me $10275 to own a 2011 Miata SE for a year. #facepalm.

Technically, BMW has killed the M3 as we know it on two counts: