I just want to let you all know that this thread can be closed now. I can tell you with absolute certainty after driving a GTI S and Golf R today that the 2018 Honda Accord Sport with the 2.0T is not only more fun than either Golf, but feels faster than the Golf R. In my search for a new car, I had to try both VWs, and now I'm convinced that they're both boring, regardless of launch control or interior materials, etc. Their materials are not even worth the $4,000 premium over the Hyundais I tested today. The VWs are simply boring, I can't really describe them in any other way. I wouldn't own one as a daily because I need a car that I actually enjoy looking at and driving.