Volkswagen R32 Review

2008 Volkswagen R32 Hatchback

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 current Volkswagen R32 is based on the latest Golf, which is now called the Rabbit in the U.S. The exterior changes between the first- and second-generation R32s are subtle, and they pretty much share the same engine, but the new R32 boasts a stiffer body structure as well as a restyled interior and more cabin space.

While the R32 doesn't compete directly with high-powered AWD Japanese offerings such as the Subaru WRX STI and Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, it nonetheless constitutes an alluring alternative to these rough-and-tumble sport compacts. R32 owners are treated to ample entertainment and exhilaration along with superior refinement and unflappable composure at speed. The end result is a car that is as comfortable in bumper-to-bumper traffic and on long trips as it is on the racetrack. Think of the R32 as an elegant and restrained interpretation of the "hot hatch."

Current Volkswagen R32

The second-generation Volkswagen R32 debuted for the 2008 model year. Like the earlier car, it comes as a two-door hatchback and is powered by a 3.2-liter V6. The V6 produces 250 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque and is paired with a six-speed automated-clutch manual transmission (VW's direct-shift gearbox, or DSG) featuring steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. All-wheel drive is standard, and one can expect a 0-60 time of 6.0 seconds.

Distinguishing between the first- and second-generation 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 further apart. Fortunately for both generations, these pipes sing with a glorious, raspy note that easily becomes addictive, especially above 4,000 rpm.

The R32's upmarket standard amenities include xenon headlights, heated leather seats, iPod connectivity and high-quality interior materials. As far as options go for the second-generation R32, there are only two -- a navigation system and a no-cost choice of either all-season or aggressive summer tires.

In reviews, our editors have praised the R32's cool and composed driving character. Hardly anything fazes this car, whether it's a midcorner bump, a stop-and-go morning commute or a wide-open stretch of highway. Cabin appointments are top-notch -- other hot hatches don't come close to the sense of quality that the R32's interior exudes. One of our few complaints concerned the V6, which doesn't sound or feel as urgent as it should in a performance-oriented car at this price point.

Used Volkswagen R32 Models

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. Production was for the 2004 model year only.

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.

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* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.