Went into the dealer here in Fredericton to discuss final numbers (not payments as they obviously don't know what interest rates will be when the first Golf R's get here in Canada). I was extremely pleased with the MSRP, especially when you look at what people are paying in US, UK, and especially Australia (shocking what those people pay for vehicles).
When I was talking to the owner he explained why the price might be so good right now. Basically he referenced when our dollar was even compared to the USD (which was a few years ago), and how VW is slow to adjust for major changes to currency. So because of our dollar doing so well 2+ years ago we're reaping the benefits now.
Anyway, back to the negotiation. Based on discussions I had here and what others were experiencing in US, UK, and other markets, I was going to be lucky to get any kind of deal. I went in with reasonable expectations, knowing that they needed to make a profit as they are a business and not a charity. My offer was full MSRP if they included winter tires and rims. He told me that they would love to accept that deal but they didn't know what that would cost. He didn't know what size of rim would fit, I told him that I priced out 17" steel rims and middle of the pack winter tires (Cooper) that would fit 2015 GTI and that the price I was quoted was around $960. Again he said he wasn't really sure what their cost would be. So I told him that if he gave me $1,000 off or winter tires and rims I would be happy. He stuck out his hand and I immediately shook it.
Honestly, the only way I was going to walk away from this dealer was if they expected me to pay above MSRP. I ended up with $1,000 off and based on what others have been paying I feel like I got a fantastic deal.
Now just have to wait until September when mine comes in. I'll be getting a Pure White, Manual, without the tech package (couldn't justify the extra $2,000 for a couple of inches more screen and safety features that I would generally have off).