I'm just back from my dealer where I had the DSG GTD out for about 3 hours, then a manual GTI out for about 45 mins (had no fuel!!)
I have to say I'm VERY surprised with the GTD in general. I'm usually a diesel hater - but I was quite impressed with it. It was smooth, quiet and quick. Infact... (get ready for the unhappy GTI owners) I wouldn't say there was MUCH difference in power between the GTD and GTI. The GTI was definately faster, but not by as much as I was expecting. The GTD was torquier which proved useful on a couple of occassions when I had to overtake on country roads!
Anyway - DSG or Manual? I think this has made my mind up that the DSG is a winner! I drove it in auto mode for a while in traffic and general normal driving. It was always in the right gear - although personally I wouldn't be doing 35mph in 6th gear... but I suppose this is how it saves fuel. When putting the foot down is was very quick and responsive, and it was also good for down shifting with the paddles when coming into corners. It very rarely went into 1st gear unless I was totally stopped - but I guess this is a diesel thing?!
Is it worth £1300?! I can't really make my mind up about that!