Didn't have too much time this weekend for test driving but managed to look at a GTI w/DSG and an Alltrack DSG. Dealer had no stock of any manual Alltracks. Quite surprised at number of Rs that dealers are stocking. Regular GTIs seem far and few between.
So far, my initial impressions are leaning towards the Alltrack. I think the added room and AWD over the GTI is a no brainer. I feel as though I would outgrown the GTI and be wanting for something with more room. Can easily slide my bike in the back until I get rack attachments and the two level load floor is very useful.
The drop in power of the Alltrack was not as much as I thought and the DSG does wonders to keep the engine working in its sweet spot. I'm curious as to what the manual will drive like. Just have to find a dealer that has some stock and also compare to the regular Sportwagen, although when fully optioned, the step up to the Alltrack isn't that much more.
My ideal combination is going to be a manual Alltrack with the light and driver assist packages. Surprised by the absence of a heated steering wheel or power trunk at this price but I guess you can't have everything. Fully kitted out it is definitely not cheap by any means but definitely a very attractive and well though out package. I could see myself owning it for the long-term.
Going to look at a few BMW wagons and maybe a used Allroad to have something to compare to. Haven't been able to find any Volvo R products to compare to. Not a lot of used T6 XC70s around and I think they will be too big for my needs.
Thought of looking at a used Tiguan or a comparable CUV but the cookie cutter CUV craze doesn't interest me all. A manual AWD wagon is definitely a unique option.