All the issues I have seen with the GTI clutch is when people tune it. Basically is sounds like it is at the limit with stock power. But we do have the JST issue on his R, not sure if the same clutch for the R. You seem to have high standards since your Mazda latest until 180k though
one issue with the GTI is the new one is right around the corner but not sure if that matters. I bought new since I wanted the new long warranty but you can probably find used ones now with the warranty.
Go drive the 3. I did and liked it but all the tech scared me, guessing you might be the same.