Exactly - a GTI to me is a fast, fun car that doesn't ride like a smacked arse and give you ringing ears.
You can park it in Knightsbridge or Kirkby without anyone batting an eyelid.
Middle England generally has kids, so this is where a luxurious hot hatch is ideal.
I honestly think VW aren't aiming GTIs at 22 year old petrol heads, and never have. The used market however is probably exactly this group.
Then of course we ruin all that by modding it