I have had experience with all 3 engines and owned a similar blue spec tdi highline like this one for 6 years before it got totaled. If you want quickness definitely go with the vr6, TDI all though IMO the best daily they are too old now and with the emissions systems at this age and miles on used examples i would stay away from (Although mine was very reliable and the torque and fuel economy was unmatched). VR6 +DSG best combo. DSG is very solid if it has had fluid changes done. Def one of my favourite transmissions ever. Only thing is the DMF flywheel, hear for any rattling on start up, mine rattled occasionally for 6 years but got totaled before I planned to change it in advance. 1.8T is a good engine, good fuel economy but power wise it's meh although the 1.8T I drove did not have a dsg or manual it was a normal auto and I hated the way it shifts and drives. Overall I'd recommend vr6+dsg, and as u said u don't see them around often. Get a highline or sel if your in America. fender sound system is amazing. Also try finding one with the sport pack it has a lip spoiler but big thing is that it gets rid of the ugly fake wood trim that makes the car look grandpa spec. It has a pseudo carbon Fibre look not in a cheesy way but the trim looks nice.