Thanks guys - I feel the warmth

Got no kids, and I'm retired, so my new Dalmatian pup is one of the reasons for the SUV rationale. Also the fact that I haven't driven the car that much (10k in 2 years

). Getting older and I know I may be losing my marbles to go Derv. I've test driven a Tiguan and other SUV's this week and I have to say I'm impressed with the VW - even with the 140 diesel engine. I plan to do more miles and some serious travelling in Europe with the wife/dog (not necessarily in that order

). My impact upon global warming and my carbon footprint is unimportant to me but I do like the idea of more cost effective motoring. The real issue however, as an enthusiast, is to balance the GTI bug with other lifestyle considerations. Fortunately, I am not yet fully senile and I've not been swayed by the ridiculous part-ex valuation given today by my local VW dealer and they can GTF if they think I will give my car away to them

But hey, I still have a fabulous GTI and will enjoy it all the more while I have it. Credit crunch and Government policy does not mean I will seriously subsidise the salary of underperforming VW sales execs

Just got an internet quote and I can get 2.5k discount off a new Tiguan with a comparable spec and supplied via a UK VW dealer with full warranty.
That said, I will sell the GTI privately at a sensible but realistic price - so if you see it for sale - DON'T BUY IT

The wife says she'll sit in the rear hatch and the dog can have the front passenger seat. Guess I'm going to be hanging around for a while yet.
Cass