I got a call later from the service exec saying that a technician had taken it out on a road test, and it wasn't my imagination, he agreed that it wasn't running quite right. It had been hooked up to a diagnostic machine - standard these days of course - and "VW HQ" had advised a "software management update". That was done and all was fine he said. Warranty work so no charge, and they washed it - bargain.
All I can say is, WOW, what a difference!
I'm not sure really how long I'd been driving it around while it was below par but the difference now is incredible! It's back to how it was when I first took delivery - like it constantly wants to take off, smooth, responsive - ultimately fast - like the flippin' 2.0 TSi is supposed to be! I don't get much chance to drive it hard - either I'm on my half hour commute on icy country back roads or on the motorway, so I think it's been a gradual problem perhaps.I'm glad I mentioned it. Has anyone else had a similar situation? I wonder if the dealer should have mentioned it to me before - a recall issue perhaps? Should it have been picked up at the service?
Anyway - I'm an even happier owner now.
Tawny