About a year ago, I got a chance -- a couple of chances, actually -- to drive a European-spec Volkswagen R32 that had been imported to the US for a marketing project. This was before there were any plans to sell the R32 in the states. (Cars are tuned differently for different markets -- the European version had a stiffer ride and some trim and equipment changes.) It was awesome -- and I wasn't the only one who thought so. Two people literally chased me down to ask me how I got my hands on an R32.
At this year's Chicago auto show, we got the news that the R32 would be coming stateside in a limited run of 5,000 units. So how is the US version of the R32? And how does it compare to its less powerful (50 horsepower) and less expensive ($10,000) sister, the GTI? Check out my 2008 Volkswagen R32 test drive and review for the answers. -- Aaron Gold
Photo © Aaron Gold
I was also expecting a bit more differentiation between this model and it’s siblings. A unique (non-chrome, non-base-model) grille, different front and side trimwork, maybe a subtle wing or a well-placed functional hood scoop, lightly smoked taillights, sport seats, carbon or aluminum interior trim, fog lights in the lower airdam, and other things that make the competitor’s high-end models stand-out.
Or maybe I expect too much for $35k…?
I agree with that Andy! They should give subtle identifiable markings for us vee-dub lovers, so we could acknowldege a hot VW in our presence; kind of like Honda did with the Civic Si…but not too visible, so that the cops don’t spot it too easily from far away. Not that an R32 driver would eeeever break the speed limit!
HD, funny you mention that, I was just looking at a blue Civic SI on the web. Too bad they dont have AWD and a bit more kick. Not that you need more power, because a Civic driver would neeever display exorbitant acceleration or drive above the speed limit either!
Now we’re talkin a great car, Andy. But I think we need to add the turbo setup they’ve got in the Mini Cooper, to give it that lower end kick and make up for the extra weight of the AWD system.We’re probably still just under 25K! Honda,are you listening???
Will someone please tell the people over at VW to please, pretty please, bring back the diesel GTI.