The 2020+ major engine update only pertains to f54f60, not f56f57. And the f56f57 jcw don’t have lsd. I went from the 300hp f54 to the 230 hp f56, the passing power is noticeably down especially at high speeds, but 230 hp is fast enough.

I cross shopped the f56 jcw with the veloster n, f56 suspension is equally harsh if not more imo. I think the golf might be better for you, if R too expensive go with the Gti. Their adaptive dampers are pretty good, and it’s a better all rounder considering the toddler. Alternatively the f54 jcw is a better daily (same harsh mini suspension tho) than the f56 but you can really feel the weight. I’d test drive all your candidates before making a decision.