Thanks all, for the replies.. I'm from Meriden/Wallingford. I love the new car! It's plenty fast enough for me, although when it's out of warranty, that might not be true anymore. The shifter could use better bushings or just replacement, but I don't have any money for that yet - must save up for better door speakers.
I'm only on here about once a week, but I do kill about an hour's worth of time looking for any and all info I can re: issues, aftermarket parts development, check engine lights, etc. - so if you ask me a question and I don't get back to you right away, that's why.
Yes, I now take the long way anywhere if there's nice alternate roads. But we did the same thing in our 2004 GTI - 20,000 miles in one year, eek..
Also true is, don't try to race the lighter, faster, more aerodynamic silver MS3s you see! Silver means fast, everyone knows that. I am not into street racing anyway, but I have got to slow down. Must slow down. Don't wear out the brakes just yet. Speed Limit 45 does not mean "See if you can hit 90, come on.."
Anyway, this post seems directionless and rambling, so I'll stop..