Hi guys I've had both a45 and the face lift a45!!! The build quality of the R is much much better!!!! We all think the Vw customer service is bad!! But merc is another level !!!! The fl had 4 gearboxs in the nine months I owned!!!! Yes all under warranty but it took Mercedes Brooklands 1 month every time it was changed!!! The curtesy car was a smart car!!!! The power and exhaust noise as standard is amazing!! But I would never trust a Mercedes again!!!! Your golf R is a much better quality! Don't go A45 you will regret it!!!