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:

Showing 61 through 70 of 199.00

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  pocket rocket on steroids - 2004 Volkswagen R32
  By GTI_TCK - November 26 - 2:00 am

  the best gti ever!

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  GREAT CAR!!!! - 2004 Volkswagen R32
  By EL TEMPLO - November 10 - 10:00 am

  Owned a BMW 3-series for 2 yrs before this car which pales in comparison to my r32!. Great handling, very aggressive, and has loads of aftermarket potential. Unlike its competitors (Evo, Sti - The Evo MR does not even have ABS! Commuting kills Evos, Sti better for track) it has lots of comfort, luxury and greater power potential with the 6 cyl engine. The alloy rims, konig heated seats, awd, sunroof, and 6-speed tranny are all standard features. The fit and finish are top notch and feels like a 25-30K car. Theres more to driving than 0-60 in a straight-line. If you appreciate comfort and luxury with amped performance, check out the r32 (compare it to is300, 3-series, TSX, c-class).

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  Better than the GTI, and AWD to boot!! - 2004 Volkswagen R32
  By kevbelz - September 28 - 10:00 am

  I purchased this car to replace my 1.8t GTI. I was moving from New Jersey to Montana, and wanted a sports car with AWD, to help get me to the Ski resorts in sporty style. This car is Awesome, I have owned 9 cars over the past 17 years, the last 4 cars were volkswagens. This car is simply the best I have ever owned. Great traction in the Rain and Snow (as long as you have appropriate tires, the stock tires are NOT for winter), and a 241 hp v6 engine that is faster than most cars.

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  VW hits a home run - 2008 Volkswagen R32
  By J D Sharp - September 12 - 5:16 am

  This replaced a 3.2 Audi TT quattro. Same basic running gear, but it has all been so much more refined. DSG no longer grabs as if youd popped the clutch when you tip in too quickly. Power is seemingly endless and always on tap. DSG continues to be the miracle transmission; no regrets and no need for manual even though I have driven shift for years. The dividing line between Audi and VW is fluff, things like, tipping-down mirrors, homelink and such, luxury features. This car is more elemental and more to my liking because of it. Just completed a 2K roadtrip and have no complaints!

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  great car - 2004 Volkswagen R32
  By honky - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Handles like a dream, deffinetly dont miss the spooling turbo of my 1.8t...VR6 3.2 more then makes up for it. All around beautiful car

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  The BEST - 2004 Volkswagen R32
  By just an average guy - August 28 - 10:00 am

  After you fit yourself into the R32, you are one. The performance is incredible, the styling is immaculate, and the comfort is unparelled. The only view anyone will have of you is you rear bumper. There wont be enough time to get your licence plate number. Happy driving.

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  R32 - 2004 Volkswagen R32
  By R32 Owner - August 27 - 2:00 am

  Third new VW. 4-motion and engine are great. Exterior is stylish but not over done. Love the interior. Exhaust note is great. Its so nice that I find myself not wanting to turn on the stereo.

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  awesome! - 2004 Volkswagen R32
  By Kevin Collins - August 21 - 10:00 am

  Picked up my R32 yesterday.. this is my 6th Golf, dating back to one of the earliest Rabbit GTIs to hit the streets in the USA back in November of 82. I test drove the R several weeks ago, prepared to be underwhelmed or even disappointed - instead I immediately decided I had to have one. The awesome VR6, the 4MOTION drivetrain, and refinement and comfort not available in the competition just won me over. The headlights are badly in need of an upgrade (either euro HIDs or halogen e-codes will be added soon) but other than that, this thing is the complete package.

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  Still a Great Car - 2004 Volkswagen R32
  By Maybaby74 - August 21 - 9:26 am

  I have owned my Volkswagen R32 for about four months now and it still excites me each time I drive it! The exhaust note is still addicting and the handling is incredible! This car is all about balance. Where all other cars in this class are about trying to get the fastest 0-60 times or the highest Gs and fastest slalom times, this car is about everyday, usable performance. On a 8/10 scale, it can keep up with anything on the road while delivering a comfortable ride, all wheel drive stability along with a bunch of options (moonroof, awsome stereo, automatic climate control, seat warmers, etc.). There is no turbo lag, no darty handling, just pure driving pleasure, and German style!

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  Just amazing - 2004 Volkswagen R32
  By Crujin - July 28 - 11:46 pm

  This car drives excellent. The highway is just a walk in the park. No one would notice how fast the car is going at high speed if he doesnt look at the speedometer.