Bumping this thread. Just drove a CW MK7 GTI. In some ways it was familiar. The interior had been updated a little and it felt a tiny bit more comfortable. Driving the car felt almost the same esp low speed around town. Out on the dual carriageway the power delivery as smooth. No jolt. It didn't seem to have that "exciting" feeling and I suspect most of it is down to the fact that I have a Stage 1 ED30.
Up close, I loved the styling cues. Wasn't sure about the panoramic sunroof. Didnt like the OPS system (sensors are larger than on the mk5 and more noticeable). The satnav is larger and seems more user friendly. The car I drove didnt have the radar. I can imagine it is useful but very much interferes with the look of the car.
In all honesty, I was blown away by it until I pushed it. It feels "safe" rather than exciting. But most of all, it didn't give me palpitations the way the MK5 did.