Aaaannnnnnddddd we are up and running!
From the beginning, there was some confusion on my part because I needed the beta file from GDE, which I was unaware of. If you are buying a tune that is already available, there would be no confusion.
Both the software and hardware is very easy to use. If you are able to follow some very simple instructions, you will have no issues installing the GDE software, pulling your factory tune, emailing it to them, and installing their hot tune. I have about 30min of time involved in this entire process. Oh yeah, the program is designed for a PC, not a MAC.
If i had to sum up my initial reaction in one word, it would be
smooth.
I was able to install the tune this evening and have to say that the tune is very smooth! The car seems more loud at idle and the turbo is definitely louder. Several others have mentioned the hard shifting at first, which I did not experience at all. I only drove the car around the block, 4-5 miles at most, but can tell a difference in how the engine responds. It doesn’t feel more powerful, but it does feel more linear and responsive.
In sport mode, the car pulls all of the way to redline and shifts very smooth. It actually spun the tires going into third gear.
Typically, when roaming around town, my fuel economy would drop on the gauge that indicates average fuel economy. Not the case after the tune, my average fuel economy meter actually increased.
I will continue to report on my findings.