Looks more promising than the base model mules that have been snapped previously. Chassis proportions look much better.
Base model MK 7 Golf are pretty uninspiring, its always the added bits and pieces of styling that beef it up to look like the performance car we seeking and did think the MK 8 GTI and R would look much better than the original shots of the MK 8 we were seeing
Having said that, did see a MK 8 GTI render and it did look very SEAT as in the present SEAT version.
Its not so much what it would look like that actually concerned me, as did think looks would be an evolution and maybe a sharper this, and a narrower that, but once had its bigger wheels and some styling performance add on would grow on us and look fine.
Its still the interior revolution that mostly concerned about, a step forward for some, and for others like me a leap too far with technology.
In terms of the drive, the MK 8 will likely get a 25-40 BHP lift in power but will likely drive much the same as the MK 7 - That might of not been the case if the hybrid solution was added as imagine on the R in particular that would have made for a lightning start, but seems they canned that tech for now on the performance models and it will be used on lower end more for economy
Happy getting the TCR now, think perfect timing, as can enjoy it and see how the MK 8 progresses and if like what I see jump in on later versions, or if not like what see, extend my MK 7 enjoyment
If I was coming to changeover at time MK 8 is up and running I would be seriously tempted to stay MK 7 and grab a clear the stock bargain.