 I purchased this car on 01/31/2012.The car now has 5.8K on the clock, so it's past it's first stage break-in-period.I'm now averaging 39.7K overall in mixed driving, but can easily hit 48 MPG cruizing at 72 MPH @ just under 2K RMPs.I can't believe how powerful it feels while still being so fuel efficient.The shifter feels solid and well weighted, the clutch is light without being too light, and the steering is direct / tracks well. The car as a whole is vastly superior to anyother eco compact non-lux car also evident in it's simple yet top-notch interior.For pure driving excitement the GTI wins hands down, but the TDI is a nice compromise that leaves me with no regrets.