Just bought mine, used. Have to say that (coming from an 07 GTI) that this car corners phenomenally better than the GTI. Doesn't feel as quick and exciting as the GTI (when accelerating), but the tight, solid cornering feeling that AWD provides is just amazing.

I've owned mine for 7 years and driven 200000km. I love everything about it. Only predictable servicing (timing belt, wheel bearings, brakes). I've checked the cam follower 3 times at intervals of 35000km, then 55000km, and 110000km later. No aggressive wear at all. I highly recommend 8000km oil changes and using a high quality synthetic oil (made in Germany).