Sorry! I think I committed the cardinal error of posting before introducing myself.
I have never owned a GTI, and in fact have only owned a VW of any kind since 2007.
My previous 4 cars were Saab's, the last one being a 95 Aero. In 2007 I decided to buy a cheap second car to economise on fuel, so I picked up a 1997 1.0 Polo for around £750. It was a great little car, so I upgraded it to a 2008 1.4 Match, which was even better!

Whilst having a service done I noticed a MK6 GTI in the showroom and was taken by it

- booked a test drive and ordered one right away. Sold the Saab in anticipation - still waiting for my new baby
