Overview & Reviews
The Volkswagen R32 two-door hatchback was introduced to the U.S. market in 2004 as a range-topping model for VW's performance cars. Starting with the Golf and GTI platform of the time, VW's engineers shoehorned in enough upgraded parts to make the R32 a standout performer in its class. Along with the expected boost in power, courtesy of a narrow-angle V6, the R32 also included VW's 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, more aggressive suspension tuning and a sporty interior. These upgrades enabled the R32 to generate fairly impressive performance statistics and earned it an almost cultlike following. The car's limited availability added to its appeal -- just 5,000 examples were sold stateside in that first and only year.
VW enthusiasts in the U.S. would have to wait four more years for the second-generation R32. Again available in limited numbers, the Volkswagen R32 was based on the latest Golf, or Rabbit in the U.S. The exterior changes between the first- and second-generation R32s were subtle, and they pretty much shared the same engine, but the new R32 boasted a stiffer body structure as well as a restyled interior and more cabin space. Sadly for enthusiasts, the second-generation R32 was limited to a single year of stateside availability (2008), just like its predecessor.
Most Recent Volkswagen R32
The second-generation Volkswagen R32 came as a two-door hatchback in 2008, its sole year of availability, and was powered by a 3.2-liter V6. The V6 produced 250 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque and was paired with a six-speed automated dual-clutch manual transmission (VW's direct-shift gearbox, or DSG) featuring steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. All-wheel drive was standard, and one could expect a 0-60 time of 6.0 seconds.
Distinguishing between the first- and second-generation Volkswagen R32 is best accomplished by comparing the nose and tail of each. Headlight designs differ noticeably, and the second-generation grille is surrounded by a brushed-metallic accent that extends below the bumper into the front airdam, while its predecessor has a more traditional body-colored plastic fascia. From the rear, the most discernible differences are the distinct taillight designs and the placement of the exhaust -- the second generation has its twin polished pipes mounted centrally, while the first generation's trumpets are located farther apart.
The second-generation R32's upmarket standard amenities included xenon headlights, heated leather seats, iPod connectivity and high-quality interior materials. As far as options were concerned for the second-generation R32, there were only two -- a navigation system and a no-cost choice of either all-season or aggressive summer tires.
In reviews, our editors praised the R32's cool and composed driving character. Hardly anything fazed this car, whether it was a midcorner bump, a stop-and-go morning commute or a wide-open stretch of highway. Cabin appointments were top-notch -- other hot hatches didn't come close to the sense of quality that the R32's interior exuded. One of our few complaints concerned the V6, which didn't sound or feel as urgent as it should in a performance-oriented car at this price point.
Past Volkswagen R32 Models
The first-generation R32 was a short-lived model produced only for 2004. Initially, Volkswagen wasn't convinced buyers in the U.S. would be interested in an enthusiast-oriented compact like the R32. It had been eight years since the company ceased production on the Corrado, its top-level performance coupe. When the two-door R32 finally arrived on our shores, it was made available with only one option -- leather seats.
Power was generated by Volkswagen's venerable VR6 engine, which had been pumped up to 3.2 liters for this application, resulting in 240 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual was the only available transmission. Knowing full well that this amount of power would be excessive if channeled solely through the front wheels, VW endowed the R32 with standard AWD.
While the Volkswagen R32 was never meant to take on rally-inspired models from Japan, the comparisons to these all-wheel-drive pocket rockets were unavoidable. All were at home on a racetrack or in autocross, with abundant power and grip. And while the R32 lacked the all-out turbocharged thrust of the Japanese models, it made up for this shortcoming with its everyday livability, which put those high-strung rivals to shame. The R32's absence of turbo lag and its ability to carve predatory lines through canyon roads while maintaining a civilized demeanor on long highway straights made it an all-purpose Swiss Army knife compared to the more specialized scalpels from Asia.
User Reviews:
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Its a Keeper - 2004 Volkswagen R32
By Back2Dubs - March 11 - 7:53 pmIve had this car for over 1 1/2 years and it is just as much of a blast as when I first bought it. Best all rounder for the money in my opinion. Power is very good with lots of torque. While the stock handling is quite good a few suspension modifications turns it into a car on rails.
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2 1/2 week old R32 - 2004 Volkswagen R32
By JR32 - March 7 - 10:00 amI love the car. The handling is great around any corner (ignore ramp speeds). The engine/exhaust sounds great. I think its the best AWD coupe/compact car WITHOUT turbo and the stock system sounds better than other cars. I wish it had 30-40 more hp. to shut WRX STi and Evo owners up. Anyway, I like VW for staying conceptually sound in shape by not altering the exterior too much. On the downside, the summer tires are nice but not smart.... A/S tires would be outstanding, but I guess VW is too cheap to equip with Michelin,Falkens or Yokohamas in that profile. One more thing... quick acceleration in 1st and 2nd has to grown on you.
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Ultimate Small Hatch GT - 2008 Volkswagen R32
By Boz - February 26 - 4:56 pmMy respect for VWs new R32 grows with every drive. The sounds that emanate from the exhaust when pushed turns pedestrian heads. Yet the supreme comfort of the seats and adjustable wheel makes the perfect driving position available to anyone. The dual zone climate control quietly keeps the car comfortable and the systems auxiliary heater gives me warm air within a minute even at single digit temps. 4Motion works effortlessly in snow while the DSG automated manual impresses with its quick, smooth shifts. Handling is much sharper than the GTI when turning at speed as the engine tourque is split between all four wheels. This car definitely has the soul of a long distance autobahn cruiser.
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R32 IS QUALITY AND FAST! - 2004 Volkswagen R32
By R32BULLET - February 21 - 11:10 pmTHIS CAR IS NOT ONLY FAST BUT IS HAS THE EXTRA THAT THE OTHERS DONT. IT HAS A FEELING OF QUALITY WHEN YOU SIT IN IT AND YOU CAN TELL IT WAS MADE WELL. THE V6 IS SMOOTH WITH NO LAG THAT TURBOS HAVE. ONE DRIVE AND YOU WILL BUY THIS CAR. VW DID A GREAT JOB ON THIS ONE!
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What a great car - 2008 Volkswagen R32
By ITworks - December 25 - 12:00 pmOver the years I have owned or purchased a number of performance vehicles, a short summary: 1997 BMW M3, 2001 BMW M Coupe, 2003 Honda S2000, 2006 Porsche Boxster S. I do have to say the R32 doesnt quite hit the handling and performance of some of these cars, but it does something none of them could do (with the exception of the 97 M3) and that is provide performance and practicality. It certainly beats the M3 in bad weather because of AWD, but in pure head banging acceleration, you wont get it with the R32. What you will get is manners, knowing that the car in under your control, not the other way around, which happens when people buy too much car for their capability. The R32 is great!
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I love it! - 2004 Volkswagen R32
By R32Girl - December 22 - 3:13 amMy 2004 Volkswagen R32 makes driving a fun and exciting experience. The power gives me an adrenaline rush I never want to lose. I will never drive another car that isnt AWD, and Im going to drive this car until it cant go anymore!
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Wicked Car - 2004 Volkswagen R32
By R32 Driver - December 8 - 5:13 amThis is the best Golf ever. I am currently stationed in Germany where i can drive the car to my limits, Im pretty sure I wont ever find its limits.
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King of the GTI - 2004 Volkswagen R32
By Bryans GTI - October 29 - 2:00 amI must say Bravo! If you love performance, Then you have to try this wicked dream to drive. Just try to push the limits all wheel drive and Yul be left a little shaken but not stirred.
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My R32 - 2004 Volkswagen R32
By volksgolf - October 12 - 2:00 amAlot of people buy cars based on 0-60 times.They dont think about comfort,reliability,or practicality.Usually when you buy a car you need to commute in it.Which means you need a certain amount of luxury.I test drove the EVO and STi and they very well may have faster 0-60 times,they have nowhere near the comfort,reliability,or practicallity that the R32 has.All in all this car just plain out performes the competition.
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its a blast - 2004 Volkswagen R32
By AWDBurnout - September 12 - 10:00 amThis car gets two big thumbs up in every way except for fuel economy. I love driving my R32 everyday
