I for one would be very interested in you elaborating, and some photos of the ST would also be appreciated.
It’s a shame your ownership didn’t last beyond that short time but I can understand your reasons.
Firstly, thanks for the brief history of your association with manual cars. Fascinating stuff.
My initial observations/impressions of the ST are as follows:
A. Features of the base spec ST that are (arguably) better than on a base spec GTI
1. Smart 19in alloys with Pirelli P-zero tyres
2. Sound system (B&O with sub-woofer in the boot)
3. Selecting drive mode menu options using a button on the steering wheel, with a separate dedicated steering wheel button for Sport mode.
4. Much more pronounced difference between ‘normal’ and ‘sport’ mode than the GTI.
5. Ability to turn off lane assist with the press of a physical button (at the end of the indicator stalk).
I think this feature was present on the Mk8 GTI but it was not carried over to the 8.5!6. Proper bucket sports seats with huge side bolsters.
Some might not regard this as an advantage as they a pretty figure hugging!7. Electrically powered front seats (both)
This has been an real eye opener. The tiny adjustments make it possible to achieve the perfect driving position. I have to admit that it took a while, but now everything "just feels right". No memory function but that's just another reason not to let anyone else drive it! One downside is that tall drivers (er, not me!) may find that the gear stick is a bit of a reach.
8. Better engine noise. Much better actually and totally authentic.
9. Room for a spare wheel
and the sub-woofer in the space under the boot floor.
10. Sun visors are deep(er) and provide much better eye shading on bright sunny days.
This doesn’t sound like a big deal but it could be a life saver on bright winter days when the sun is very low.B. Things that are not so good in the ST1. Quality of the physical buttons in the cabin are not quite up to the quality of VW.
2. The doors do not shut with the same reassuring thud of a Golf.
3. No USB sockets in the rear
4. Exhaust tail pipe tips are not chromed so look a bit naff (
I need to do something about that one).
5. Front fog lights are integrated into the LED headlights rather than being separate.
C. Features that are equally good in both cars1. Native satnav
2. Infotainment system quality and ease of use
3. Digital dash layout and options
4. Smartphone app integration (via wireless CarPlay/AA)
5. General practicality (boot space, door pockets, etc).
I will post a few pics after I have given the car a good clean. Thanks for your interest.
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