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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fun but could have been better - 2008 Volkswagen R32
By AJ - September 2 - 2:53 pmThe R32 is quick and fun to drive, but I expected more improvements over my 2004 R32. I think the 04 had a better exaust and certainly got better mileage. The seats seem cheap compared to the 04 which had stitching on the R. It just seems VW did less than was expected after having an 04. Maybe the GTI has gotten far better and the R32 needed to excell even more. I also had an 20T GTI with DSG. Compared to other cars the R32 is above the crowd.
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1 sweet R32 - 2004 Volkswagen R32
By 4motion4me - July 19 - 10:00 amI was looking into buying a Subaru WRX STI, but after two test drives in each and reading as many Road&Track,Car&Driver,and any other info I could find I desided to go with the R32. I traded in my 2003 GTI VR6 that had 29,000 miles on it. That was a great car but this is a whole new beast. Once you own an all wheel drive there is just no going back. This car handles like a dream, the seats are the best Ive ever been in. Cabin is put together very well and the pipes are crazy. The climit control is awsome, heated seats are so sweet on those cold winter days. I live in the central valley of California so these tire are the best. If there was one thing I would change(give me a spare tire)!!!!!
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Functional Fun - 2004 Volkswagen R32
By BigWoo - July 15 - 1:33 pmI was hoping for a less expensive vehicle, but the test drive of my 2004 Volkswagen R32 sold me. The car rides like its on rails even when I punch it, but has a nice refinement to it as well. Im driving it in the winter in the Finger Lake area right now, and it handles better than my Jeep Grand Cherokee in the snow! However, I cant wait to pop the summer wheels back on and open up the windows and throttle! Its sporty but classy, fast but not furious. Even though I was looking for a smaller car payment, I still get giddy every time I sit behind the wheel. I would highly recommend this car without any reservations. If you want Golf fuel efficiency however, stick with the TDI.
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R32: Incredible Fun! - 2004 Volkswagen R32
By tgrundke - June 12 - 10:00 amStart this car up and the exhaust note on ignition will blow you away. Move the tach up past 3800 RPMs and the growl is beautiful. This car has sickening amounts of torque and traction and body lean and roll are very well controlled. The ride is stiff, but never uncomfortable and it is wonderfully balanced. The shifter on this vehicle is the best that Volkswagen has ever placed in a standard production vehicle and compares very well with those from BMW and Honda. In short: this car is too much fun.
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we want a 280 or more 6 - 2004 Volkswagen R32
By cornwall - June 7 - 10:00 amhandling is outstanding glad I live in a area where hills and curves keep me very happy Pulling power in all 6 gears is outstanding. comfort and ride is great for a car that handles so well! brakes, just what you need to feel safe, they Stop on a dime.
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KICK A... VW,VW TUNERS DREAM - 2004 Volkswagen R32
By VW MAN - May 6 - 10:00 amMY 11 TH VW.THEY SHOULD GIVE ME THIS ONE FOR FREE!!!GREW UP IN GERMANY. ANYWAY.THE BEST,THE MOST FUN TO DRIVE VW EVER MADE.HANDLING IS A DREAM,STICKS LIKE A GLUE.4 MOTION WORKS GREAT.DID SOMEWHERE CLOSE TO 120 MPH ON PUBLIC ROAD AND JUST WISH THERE WAS AN AUTOBAHN SOMEWHERE NEAR BY. QUALITY SUPERB.WAY TO GO VW!!! DO YOURSELF A FAVOR, IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A COUPE WITH SOME ...s,JAPANESE HAVE TO LEARN A LOT FROM GERMANS.DRIVE THIS ONE AND YOU WILL BE HOOKED LIKE ME. REFLEX SILVER SITTING IN MY GARAGE. SITTING AND LOOKING PREETY!
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R32 Really Delivers - 2004 Volkswagen R32
By dcurrie - April 30 - 10:00 amThough the R32 is a potent machine, boy racers need not apply. It has been engineered to deliver a fine balance between a high performance driving experience and a supple daily driver that you can live with. Engine and mechanical sounds are fabulous, stops like crazy, and for added safety it offers great grip in the wet (phenomenal even.) And in black, as mine is, it doesnt attract a lot of attention. It does sometimes go too fast, but were working on that togther.
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No problems at 47000 miles - 2004 Volkswagen R32
By jcelsa - April 19 - 12:00 pmHandles well in all weather. It took a while to find a spare that still only fits the rear. I pump the tires to 38 and have had no bubbles so far. Leans more than a BMW xi in turns, otherwise, just as fast. I fixed the rain sensor wiper problem with rain x on the sensor.
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Lovely Jubbly! - 2004 Volkswagen R32
By fortistiger - April 8 - 11:43 amThe Volkswagen R32 is an awsome car all round. I have owned many cars and it tops them all! I cant find any fault with it. It is so much better than a BMW!
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Whoa! - 2008 Volkswagen R32
By NewnanR32 - March 30 - 9:16 amI have had my R32 for 4 days now. I had previously owned a 1995 Jetta VR6. I knew what to expect with the power and performance. However I had no idea how smooth and precise the DSG was until my First Road Trip - from Detroit to Atlanta (750 miles). I learned that "S" means See Ya later! I was comfortable and enjoy the drive. Unbelievable handling and acceleration! This vehicle is low key and stays under the "Radar" with police. I look forward to adding a Cool Air Intake in the coming weeks to help with gas mileage and possibly more.
