It seems to be accepted that the stock PCV is prone to give issues over time. Although I have not seen any detail of why or over what time scale the stock item fails, similarly, I have not seen any proof of how aftermarket ones magically make all issues disappear.
**Important Note**
Customers in regions of the world that drop well into the freezing temperatures during the winter will need to keep a watchful eye on the volume of water collected in the can. One of the main fluids caught in the can is condensation (water). In the winter months the amount of condensation caught in the can will dramatically increase. If left in the can in freezing temperatures there is a possibility that this water could freeze. If frozen, pcv flow will be inhibited. Make sure to keep an eye on your fluid levels.
Also, you end up having to add crap in to your engine bay which clutters it up and looks ugly.
For what its worth, I seem to recall the stories of the recirc valve being an issue on TFSi Cupras once upon a time, but I have not known of many that have failed on the Cupra due to it being located on the front side of the engine away from the heat of the turbo although it was certainly an issue on several FR's/GTi Golfs etc. Scare stories/negative news sell parts however even though sometimes the issue may not directly affect some (ie the Cupra). Funnily, however, there is now an OEM "D" revision valve with a spring instead of a diaphragm which does away with the argument used for having to "upgrade". You then have a choice of a £50 valve from your main dealer or pay 2 times that (at least) for an aftermarket one that does not give any additional performance/reliability etc gains.
If the PCV is such a large issue or
problem, I would imagine VAG will be working on a way to replace the PCV with a better item or they are going to see a **** load of warranty claims come time.
In the mean time, one can only assume that the PCV needs to be treated as a servicable item in my opinion or look at the aftermarket alternatives available. I will probably look to change mine every 3000 miles with the oil and filter.