 I've mainly purchased BMWs and Audis, probably a good reason for that.  My wife and I test drove the 08 GLI 4dr with DSG.  Transmission was fairly jumpy in my mind, breaks were not as solid, and the handling was very loose. Of course I'm coming from a 06 325i and comparing it to this VW.  In my mind it isn't as sporty as some people think it is or handles as well.  A vehicle that compares well to BMW that is not an Audi or Mercedes, is the 08 Mini Cooper S AM.  I was very impressed with this vehicle and probably will purchase one. And I know that VW makes Audi and etc.  But transmissions are different, i don't think the DSG compares well enough to Audi's tiptronic nor BWM's SMG. Sorry.