3) I have a Tiguan Elegance 1.5tsi DSG and it’s as you say a no brainer. I couldn’t order the R-line with less function. Load lip hasn’t been an issue here. I believe you can still order the vario-floor or whatever they call it, as the slot points are in the boot ready for the adjustable floor. As you already have a Tiguan SEL 2016+ you might try and place your vario floor in the new tiguan and see if it does indeed match.
Having the extra room VS the spare tyre £215 extra made sense to me, and having only 1 flat, on the drive at home in 3 years made the decision easier.
It’s not the most exciting drive in the world but it does have a lot of features and practicality for the AP. I find it more exciting, and a firmer ride than the Karoq SEL it replaced. Currently £445 off at Vertu Hereford for in stock vehicles too. I wonder if January will see the AP increase?