For $500 the extra turbo boost torque makes this feel like another car. Fast off the line and passing cars. VW/Audi uses this engine/drive train (manual here) in their sports car so after 260KKm I find no additional wear and tear except upgrading some vacuum hoses. This is well versed on the web and I had a year to look for it before it was necessary.
The front wheel 4 link suspension is great for keeping all that low RPM torque spread out evenly across both front tires on sharp corners and drips. I increased the tire width one size to help use all the torque in 2nd gear. It goes past 80kms/hr pretty fast in 2nd before you even want to shift.
12 year anti perforation warranty on galvanized body panels with factory under coating help make the car look good after 13yrs. Bought it 2nd hand after 50KKM with leather interior and premium sound system. It was in great condition and continues to be. The turbo boost is rarely used in normal driving so the fuel mileage is good at 8L/100km as shown on the dash display. Although it does require premium fuel.
My wife is not aggressive with the accelerator so she doesn't really notice any difference in her car except half the passing time on 2 way highways. I drive an 98 Audi A4 with the same chassis so there is much on common for the home mechanic. Don't buy new and drive it for a long time. You drive a better car and save a fortune over your life.