I did consider the Mercedes C-Class. You know the one with the big kinda window hatchback with the spoiler that wraps around it - kinda sporty. I had a look at one the other weekend and the biggest thing that put me off was the crappy patterned cloth seats They were disgusting !.
Did have a look at BMW 3 Serie's, but I got the feeling that they were living in the dark ages with their styling (especially inside).
So that's how I ended up considering a TT. I like both the interior and exterior styling (although the wheels can do with restyling). Plus, it's still a pretty good brand, although after what I've read about it I am seriously having second thoughts. They did say on the TT site that the aftersales had something to work on. And someone on there even said that he's considering moving to an IS200, and everybody who made comments basically come back with the brilliant aftercare from Lexus, and off course - the reliability. Some people did say that it's just a glorified Toyota, but they had responses with "it might be, but it still doesn't break down". :D