I'd previously test-driven and ordered the 190 DSG Diesel (separate post detailed that test drive) but subsequently decided to change my order to petrol.....the 2.0 TSI 180 engine. My dealer has just taken delivery of one of these as a demo / stock model, so I've had a quick test drive in that, and been able to directly compare not just the engine but also a few other features......
Engine - definitely a slight bit more responsive than the diesel and eager to rev. Also noticeably quieter. I would be totally happy with either engine, both are fantastic, and of course it's down to personal choice, type of driving etc. For me I'm saving £1500 on the purchase price, but after 3 years (given my mileage) the costs will be pretty much even. Having switched to petrol I get a slightly better performing car, and slightly de-risk against the current anti-diesel movement and any impact on residual values.....but as a long-term diesel fan I could very happily have gone either way and wouldn't be disappointed with either choice.
Panoramic roof - love it. Definitely glad I've ordered it, both for the extra light in the cabin, as well as the option of some fresh air!
DCC - Only tried this briefly. Again there is pretty much a 50/50 split of people who are pro- or anti- DCC and I respect both views, it's personal choice......personally I'm glad I have NOT ordered it. "Comfort" mode I found to be very "wallowing" and rolling with every turn.....perfect for bringing on car-sickness. And Sport mode I found unnecessarily harsh and you feel every bump. Normal mode is great, no body roll to worry about, etc. and feels exactly the same as the non-DCC model I'd tried previously. If I'd opted for DCC I reckon it would have permanently stayed in "normal" and I'd be annoyed at wasting £1000.
Gearbox (DSG) - as reported by others, slightly jerky on pulling away (same with both petrol and diesel), but not a problem. In normal "D" mode there is a lag when accelerating (I was simulating an over-take, accelerating 40-60ish) but not really any different than I had in my previous car (LR Discovery Sport) and I got used to that very quickly, and how to pre-empt it. The lag is far less in "S" mode.
But overall this 2nd test drive has absolutely reinforced that this is a lovely car to drive, very comfortable, and can't wait to get my hands on mine in a couple of months.
Engine - definitely a slight bit more responsive than the diesel and eager to rev. Also noticeably quieter. I would be totally happy with either engine, both are fantastic, and of course it's down to personal choice, type of driving etc. For me I'm saving £1500 on the purchase price, but after 3 years (given my mileage) the costs will be pretty much even. Having switched to petrol I get a slightly better performing car, and slightly de-risk against the current anti-diesel movement and any impact on residual values.....but as a long-term diesel fan I could very happily have gone either way and wouldn't be disappointed with either choice.
Panoramic roof - love it. Definitely glad I've ordered it, both for the extra light in the cabin, as well as the option of some fresh air!
DCC - Only tried this briefly. Again there is pretty much a 50/50 split of people who are pro- or anti- DCC and I respect both views, it's personal choice......personally I'm glad I have NOT ordered it. "Comfort" mode I found to be very "wallowing" and rolling with every turn.....perfect for bringing on car-sickness. And Sport mode I found unnecessarily harsh and you feel every bump. Normal mode is great, no body roll to worry about, etc. and feels exactly the same as the non-DCC model I'd tried previously. If I'd opted for DCC I reckon it would have permanently stayed in "normal" and I'd be annoyed at wasting £1000.
Gearbox (DSG) - as reported by others, slightly jerky on pulling away (same with both petrol and diesel), but not a problem. In normal "D" mode there is a lag when accelerating (I was simulating an over-take, accelerating 40-60ish) but not really any different than I had in my previous car (LR Discovery Sport) and I got used to that very quickly, and how to pre-empt it. The lag is far less in "S" mode.
But overall this 2nd test drive has absolutely reinforced that this is a lovely car to drive, very comfortable, and can't wait to get my hands on mine in a couple of months.
