Miss having the hatchback? Not really. I just think sedans are stupid, and less attractive than hatchbacks. But the 3 carries FAR more than the golf could ever hope to. The trunk is a bit difficult to close, which is an issue I have on lots of sedans (really stiff at the top, requires too much force to slam shut because it doesn't have the mass of a hatch).

I love driving the 3, and ours is an RWD LR with the 18" eco crap tires. I can't say I miss driving the R, but I miss the way it looks and having that unique car that I'm passionate about, and I really enjoyed having a manual transmission.

I have a manual sports car as well, but you know what, I always choose the 3 when I need to go run an errand, so maybe that's all you need to know. Just about the only time I've driven my sports car in the past year is 2 track days. Hardly any street miles.