After a year and a half I've come to realize that after my motorcycle accident, the closest substitute just doesn't do it.

I'll be trading my 05 S2000 and 06 Ridgeline for a 2012 VW GTI 4dr.

Before you all flame me for my decision allow me to explain.

I was always a Honda guy, having owned many over the years. My first deviation was to Volkswagen for the 2006 GTI. The fit and finish of the interior, smooth torquey engine and available mods made it one of my favorite vehicles to own. The FSI engine was not without it's issues and ultimately it was the fuel pump follower failing that caused me to sell, but I never forgot the fun that was had not only driving, but modding.

The S2000 was always a desirable acquirement but until my accident I never thought I'd own one as having more than one vehicle was not possible financially, and it wasn't practical enough for my daily needs. I didn't get much since the kid that almost killed me only had the bare min coverage but I'll be getting married at a nicer venue than normally doable and the S was supposed to quench my thirst for the 2 wheel thrills. Unfortunately in this she has failed but through no fault of her own. While I thoroughly appreciate her for what she is and what she can do, I feel she deserves a better home. I hardly hit vtec anymore because of all the police in my area, and on/off ramps have become boring. I have no desire to track because of the added expense of tires and brakes, and the fact that living on Long Island, there isn't anything around anyway.

The compromise is a sporty 4 door with room to haul, solid oem and aftermarket support and an active community. Most of my old GTI friends still have their MKV or have upgraded to the MKVI. The fuel pump follower, diverter valve, and pcv issues that plagued the 06 have been resolved and the interior and features have been upgraded nicely. Going from 2 to 1, I feel it is the best option while still being open enough to allow me to personalize to my tastes.

Now that I'm off topic in my own thread, lol, I just have to say thank you to all here who have made this the most wonderful site to reference, and to participate in. See you in infinity...

 

sounds like a solid move to me based on your situation, congrats and enjoy.

 

congrats on your new v-dub and good luck in the future

 

Just sold my 2007 MKV GTI to get an 05 s2000. Sold it because of the fuel pump cam follower issues, the intake valve deposit issues and all the little kids slamming their cars in the local scene who would come up to me and tell me to slam my car (that was very annoying). I don't believe that the intake valve deposit issues were fixed on the newer models, but I would never by a 2.0T again unless they fixed that. You should for sure get it tuned, which makes a huge difference in power, along with a downpipe and solid motor mounts. The new MKVI is extremely nice though, practically an audis interior with great exterior looks. I would just hold out and get the Golf R though.

 

You made a very mature decision and should feel good about it. I can definitely see what you're saying about regarding hitting VTEC, on-ramps, and tracking the car. I sold my 2009 Civic Si to get this car. Do I regret it? Absolutely not, however I can't help but feel like I'm only using 2/10 of this car's abilities. I rarely hit VTEC also because getting caught driving like that is going to put a big hurt on my wallet. Good point about track expenses too. On-ramps still have not gotten boring though and I had a K20 for two years. The Civic was fun, looked good, and had some practicality. Maybe I just need to get the S out more. I don't even drive it to work as I commute to NYC every day.

There are also times where I yearn for a smoother and quieter car (my Si had motor mounts). The GTI is a sweet car, and I'm trying to convince the wife to get one as her next car instead of the Jetta that she wants :facepalm: Be happy with your decision, OP. I think you made the right one and you will be happy with the GTI. I had an '07 Audi A4 quattro a few years back (leased) and just did an APR Tuning reflash and the car was a blast to drive.

 

i find it ironic that your username is "noregrets" but good luck on your journey, the GTI's are nice cars, that turbo and that extra torque (compared to the S) might just suit you better for daily driving.

 

I always rode bikes until Soccer Mom ran a stop, I decided to get off Bikes and bought my 07 S with the insurance money. I drove the heck out of the S the first year, it was my daily and I put 21,000 miles on it first year. But the S just did not replace the bike for me and I got a new bike, I now have 23,000 miles on my S, I basically only drive to work when its pouring down rain, less then 2,000 miles in 3 years. It just sits outside all year long waiting for a rainy day while I ride the bike. I know where you are coming from, nothing can replace 2 wheels.

 

Since it will be my only vehicle I will be needing the DSG. Loved that tranny on the 06. The intake valve deposits have not been fixed by VW and is the nature of the engine design as they don't have fuel washing over the valves the way our engines do. The prevention is pretty simple though, there is seafoam, or if I decide to go the route, water meth injection. Knowing me I probably will want to upgrade to something newer after the 3 years free maintenance is up anyway so the point may be moot.

I have no regrets buying the S, very happy I did. I've learned a lot during my time with her and the memories will be cherished
Ouch. Hope you are ok. Mine was an 18 year old that turned left in front of me. Hit him at 30.

 

And I will absolutely be tuning. Stage 1 APR nets 62hp and 82tq over stock. I was stage 2+ when I began to part the 06 out.

 

get the Golf R!!! either way.. LOVE the new GTI... headlight, rear tail lights, grill and dual exhausts made all the difference IMO.