Simply could not afford the new 'new' prices, the circa £50 k is luxury prices for me, and so what was once affordable is not, and though could finance and have a set ownership and commitment, really do not want to tie myself into what are quite heavy payments still.
And if prices are fixed and there is zero chance of discount, all just said is more so, as even the strongest willed can sometimes be tempted by an exceptional deal.
This is my last company car, was super lucky to get the 128Ti, the choice of cars now is bare bones as discounts have dried up, had a Golf R and TCR with small refund on my allowance, them cars no longer on there, and had to pay a nominal lift to get the 128Ti. With the BIK it used to be a balance act to worth, great car, fully wrapped insurance and servicing etc, but cars available will certainly not be worth the cost, but the 128Ti has thankfully proven to be a great run out car and made it worth it, before go private ownership again.
So its second hand now all the way for me, and would naturally be looking at MK 8 R, Clubsport normally, as they are in my affordable band now, and would really like to get into one, but the fear of picking up a glitchy lemon rules that out, so it looks like it will be a run out MK 7.5 R/GTI with lowest mileage can find when this 128Ti goes back. (though will look at M135i as an outside replacement, but do need to test drive as there are some minor drive irritants on the 128Ti that would like to see if AWD eradicates))
Wife's car is a 2019 R and i do occasionally grab it off her, and its always a pleasure, it genuinely gives you everything ever need from a car, including tech now, which was always a downfall of owning an older car, and its timeless in looks and the interior with the digital display and decent entertainment system still has a modern edge. They still keeping their price, but creeping downwards still, and for over half the price of a new one, its not a hard decision.
