Go test drive even the automatic version, so you at least get an idea of how you like the cabin, handling, acceleration and everything else other than the transmission. I’m not a VW fan, so I have bias against it, but they are very different cars. Good luck choosing. 

Hey hey....it’s the Vag-Mobile. AKA: The “Vulvo”.

Get the Genesis, hopefully the dealer experience doesn’t sour how you feel about it 

Genesis without question. 

Good thing they haven’t called themselves Revelation I suppose...

I have a deposit on a new M2. The Genesis G70 is probably what i’d be looking at if i were to save a little money. I like it much more than the Golf R/Gti. 

“Telegram for Mr. Asswipe!”

I massaged Assman for comment

Well, he did admit he’s a bit of a sarcastic shit.

David Assman, pronounced OSS-man 

The GTI. I traded an M235i for my ‘17 Sport and like the VW better. It’s just more fun, and 1/2 the price. More practical than a coupe or sedan too.

GTI is a known quantity, but I would do a 2 or 3 year lease on the Genesis and see if you like it.  You can always buy it at the end if you are in love with it and if you aren’t, toss the keys back and see ya!  I would imagine the lease deals are crazy strong right now with no actual residual values in the wild yet.  

I’m in the same boat.  Have you considered a Golf R with 6mt?  I am even looking at the past generation Audi S4 in 6mt, B8.5s.   

Great call on the red. (we’re double threading here) I wanted silver 1st and red 2nd as I felt like those two colors would be the most direct callback to the OG GTI. Also got an S trim for the plaid seats as I thought if I’m going to own a GTI it better be right.

It’s awkard. From the factory all the engine mounts and trans mounts are really soft. When the engine gets power it rocks backwards and because it isn’t super secure the weight comes off the nose. Combined w/ the soft-ish factory suspension the car wheel hops bad.

If you get a CPO GTI get at least a 2016, that’s when they added Carplay and USB ports instead of the proprietary cable with $50 connectors. My recommendation would still be new since the performance pack is standard on the MK7.5 plus you get the much better warranty, they were still 3/36 and 5/60 powertrain until I…

You’re welcome!

I’d say it depends on how long you plan to keep it. If it’s long-term, go for the Genesis. If not, GTI.

Genesis. Both are awesome, but the Genesis is a little unique-er.
With the VW would be custom ordered, you would be unique as everyone else.