Currently driving a manual MK7 GTI, but wanted to branch out and try RWD. I did get a chance to test drive the auto version so can only imagine how great the MT is. The market seems to be flooded with BWs right now but haven't found one in the spec I like. Also don't want to pay for extras I don't need. Will probably order one at MSRP if I decide to move forward with a 23 model year. Only thing I haven't decided on is the color.
but really, they are all gorgeous. Each color should have a page on here! Best of luck! 
You want a Watkins Glen full spec @ MSRP? You get what you get for color so....
Not going to compromise for that kind of money. Lots of stock for now and don’t see much movement so prices may start coming down too.
You don’t miss the light weight of the GTI?I also used to have a Mk7 GTI, what a great car. In terms of steering feel and overall ergonomics it has a lot in common with the Blackwing. I had a Genesis G70 6MT in between the two. I thought that the G70 was everything I wanted in a RWD car until I drove the Blackwing.
Just wait until you find the exact spec you want, because you are going to want to own this car for a long, long time.
Some options that I didn't think I would like but now that I have them I am glad: PDR, Sunroof, and the Sky Cool Grey seats. Also the black wheels hide brake dust pretty well, which is good because the brakes make a LOT of dust. IMO the bronze wheels look awesome when clean but not so much when dirty.
Not even a little bit. There really is no comparison between the handling of the GTI and the 4BW. The GTI is excellent, the Blackwing is magic.
Definitely see the upside to RWD, world class chassis, and power. I was thinking you would lose the nimble and chuckable nature of a compact light weight car. Plus you get to beat it up and push it to the limit on the street....although it does get a bit unsettled and falls apart near near the limit. I will likely keep the GTI since it's been so reliable and wouldn't get my money's worth selling it.
I kept my GTI, the little thing is very enjoyable to drive, especially with a manual. It satiates my hunger to mod. But like others have said, the 4BW is just so much better in every way. It's really no competition when it comes to handling and driving dynamics vs the GTI.
Mine's a 2019, so a MK7.5, and my recommendation is to get a 7.5 (MY 2018-2021). I think the facelift looks better, and you can more easily find models with better options since they added more to the base models as the years went on. Plus most of the issues have been ironed out. And physical buttons. Can confirm the gas mileage is really good. I will consistently average 25 on backroads even when having fun and can get around 35 doing 70 on the highway, and that's with PA hills.
