i run 0-40 m1 synthetic. in my mind and a general consensus is that its nice and thin for when they are cold, and then when your motor is hot the 40 protects nice.
i would be careful getting a chip. i am the first to say these cars are more reliable than they ge credit for, but that being said they aint cheap to replace when they go…so before you chip, have something set aside for repair costs.
short shift is a nice add. apr snub mount takes some slack out of the driveline. exhausts sound great on the 2.7t, and there are some options for volume. did you upgrade the brake pads yet? stock are kinda weak. change your dv’s to part # ending in 710n, they are more reliable, and will be a must have for when you are chipped. do not get a k&n or oil based filter. the oil kills mafs and that gets pricey. downpipes are a good purcahse but not the easiest to install unless you are familiar with the car. you can get pre-gutted stockers that are good for some power but i wouldnt think of it till you got an exhaust as well otherwise it makes a pretty horid hiss noise.
that should get you started. i would go with short shift and snub mount and save your money for turbos when they go.