Coming from a family that owns 2 gtis, a 2012 golf TDI, and an R32, I would have to say the only tangible benefits of the R32 over the GTIs are:
-4 wheel drive, great in the snow
-the stock exhaust note
-and if you're picky, power response is slightly better in the R32.
The GTI is faster, lighter, has better MPG. Spend 600-1000 in mods on the GTI and it will be significantly faster than the R32. After an intake and Rev D. DV, I like the sound of my GTI better anyway.
Personally, I really like the R32 but its price tag keeps it from comparing with the GTI. If I were you I would wait for the Golf R to come around. 4 wheel drive, more power than the R, better gas mileage. Also more tuneable because it is turboed.
EDIT: also you say you would like to stay away from tuning. Why not spend 600$ and get an APR stage 1 flash on a GTI? Super reliable (more conservative than tuners such as unitronic), and a huge leap in performance. No hardware required, you take it in and they hook it up to a computer. Need to take it in for service? The modes are switchable and you can put it back to stock for the dealer. If I were you I would consider the chip in your purchase decision.
EDIT #2: I see you live in San Diego, 4 wheel drive would not be a benefit for you unless you plan on spending 4-8 grand to hop the R32 up to 400-600hp.