‘R’ stands for racing in innovative VW R32
This week, we test drive the powerful and innovative Volkswagen R32, an all-wheel-drive (AWD) performance car based on the popular Golf platform.
Its nomenclature results in an “R” for racing and “32” for 3.2-liter V-6 engine. It’s also the very first all-wheel-drive Golf, fitted with the 4MOTION transfer/transmission setup that has been perfected in the Audi line under the name “Quattro.”
The R32 is unquestionably Volkswagen’s most aggressive offering. Under the hood sits the very powerful 3.2-liter version of its famous VR-6 engine. With cylinders set in a zigzag fashion and angled in space-saving rows only 15 degrees apart, the engine fits nicely under the hood and produces an amazing 240 horsepower.
The result is a car that goes from zero to 60 mph in just 6.4 seconds, with peak torque from 2,800 to 3,200 rpm. Mated to the engine is a racing-bred six-speed manual transmission that uses a hydraulic clutch. No automatic transmission is offered on the R32.
Outside, twin-pipe exhausts that emit a specially tuned sound, a unique front bumper that acts as a spoiler, large grill, darkened taillights, rear spoiler, side skirts and special badging on the front and rear ensure other drivers know an R32 is in their midst.
Inside, the R32 merges high-performance with VW quality and attention to detail. The instrumentation is well-done and easy to read. Alloy touches are used everywhere, giving a racecar-style atmosphere. The high-performance Koenig sport seats (cloth with leatherette trim is standard, ours had the impressive $950 leather option) hold you in place and, although firm, are very comfortable.
Notable standard features include climate control, heated mirrors and front seats, CD stereo with eight speakers, Monsoon Sound System, power windows, power glass sunroof, cruise control and rain sensor wipers.
And how does the R32 react when pushed to the limit in the corners? Like the performance car that it is, thanks to a low-slung body, huge Y-rated performance tires and an excellent suspension system. Of course, the 4MOTION facilitates putting the right amount of power to any wheel, reducing slippage and keeping the R32 pointed in the right direction. It also helps with the unwieldy weight ratio, which finds 2,011 pounds — almost 60 percent of the car’s weight — up front.
Underneath, you’ll find McPherson struts and lower wishbones up front guiding the 4MOTION fully independent suspension. The rear is a multi-link suspension with dual-link trailing arms. The anti-roll bars on both axles have been significantly strengthened. Add aggressive shocks and springs and you are ready for any road in the country.
The R32 stops as well as it accelerates, thanks to large, ventilated ABS disc brakes at the front and rear. The brake calipers are visible in blue behind the special 18-inch alloy wheels, a nice touch.
Like all Volkswagens, the R32 is equipped with an advanced side-impact safety system, an airbag supplemental restraint system that helps protect heads and upper torsos from injury. All other expected safety items are also standard.
Important numbers include a wheelbase of 99.1 inches, 16.4-gallon fuel tank (premium recommended), 3,409-pound curb weight, 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway EPA numbers, and cargo capacity of up to 38.8 cubic-feet with rear seat folded down.
At $30,000, this VW is for the spirited few who love performance and VW technology. We rate it an eight on a scale of one to 10.