Isn't the operative question as regards K&N filters "how
confident are you of your ability to oil this filter enough
so it filters but not so much the oil mist doesn't ruin your
intake air sensor?"  This is actually a question since it's
just speculation on my part that damage could occur--is the
potentiometer in the air stream?  Etc.

As regards the VW filter it seems logical to assume "heavy
duty" refers to better filtration rather than longer life.
In fact, if a filter traps more dirt it's life is likely to
be less.