2006 Volkswagen Golf R32 Road Test
September 12, 2006 by Alborz Fallah
Test model: 2006 Volkswagen Golf R32, five-door with DSG
Options fitted:
- Electric glass sunroof – $1621.00 – OK, I’d think about it
- Satellite navigation system with CD changer – $2436.00 – No, I’d buy a portable touch screen unit for less than $1000.00
- Electrically adjustable driver’s seat – $725 – No, the manual system works too well
- Parking distance sensors – $644 – Yes, but why aren’t they standard on the R32
Recommended Retail Price: $58,460
On Road Price: $64,061
Where it sits: The top of the tree in the Golf range.
A bit of history: The R32 was first launched in 2002 and was considered one of the hottest cars on the road with its 177kW engine. Worldwide demand was way more than was originally planned, with over 14,000 sold between 2002-2004. In Australia, all 200 imports were sold and after driving this car, I can only hope that Volkswagen have plenty of stock of the new R32, this time round.
HOW IT GOES
It wasn’t easy taking the R32 back to Volkswagen. The most powerful Golf ever built, is a sophisticated, high performance ride, which your Grandmother could drive. Yes, it’s that good.
From the moment you fire up the R32 engine, your ears tell you full well, that there’s something a little angry under the bonnet of this car. What we have here, is a 3.2L V6 which will deliver a respectable 184 kW (250bhp for the older crew) and a peak of 320 Nm of torque, between 2,500 and 3,000 rpm. The problem is, this engine plays such a sweet tune that more often than not, you’ll find yourself driving with the windows down and the CD player off!
No question, this R32 with its 4Motion and DSG set-up, is a quick thing. In the Northern Territory, you’ll hit a scary 250km/h and the benchmark 0 to 100km/h sprint in just 6.2 seconds although, on the road, I reckon it feels a little quicker than this.
It’s not just the speed and acceleration though; the silk smooth delivery of power and the astonishingly quick gear changes via Volkswagen’s Direct Shift Gearbox make this car one of the best performance drives of the year. It’s just so user friendly. There’s nothing like the sensation of driving a six speed manual with a close ratio gearbox, but that’s only true if you haven’t driven with a DSG transmission. It is truly a work of art, which will probably end up in the Louvre, alongside the original Range Rover, once all car makers adopt this technology and bury the old school automatic.
DSG explained
Direct Shift Gearbox is a dual-clutch automated manual gearbox, which shifts gears faster than Michael Schumacher could ever hope to. With two clutches and a two-part transmission shaft operating different gears, the DSG never takes a rest. For example, when you select “D” for drive, first gear is selected by one clutch, and second gear is pre-selected by the other clutch. This produces an almost seamless gear change with little or no loss of power between shifts. The DSG is currently on board the Bugatti Veyron (the world’s fastest car) and is said to feature in the much anticipated Audi Supercar, the R8.
Although you can also change gears manually on the R32 using a set of steering wheel mounted paddles, there’s no point really. Just select “S” for Sport and the DSG will run to almost redline in every gear with a little bonus on the way down. When braking hard on the approach to a corner, the R32 will automatically down shift with a delightful double clutch song, enabling you to power out of the corner in the perfect gear ratio.
What’s even more astonishing (sorry about the use of superlatives) is the way this car lays to the power down in the wet. Quite simply, the R32 has got more grip than a bucket full of starving leeches, no matter what the road conditions are. No doubt, the Haldex four-wheel drive system has a big part to play in the way this car performs in the ‘grip’ department, as it electronically distributes power to all four wheels or wherever it’s needed, thus avoiding any loss of traction or hint of torque steer.
HOW IT HANDLES
One thing Volkswagen has achieved with the new Mark V Golf Chassis, is a very good balance between ride comfort and cornering ability and the R32, applies this and then some. For a car with cornering limits this high, speed bumps and potholes are soaked up without fuss, despite riding on ultra-low profile 225/40 rubber and 18 inch (Zolder) alloys. It doesn’t seem to matter how much throttle you give this car into a corner, it will hold its line and frankly, the only place you could safely and legally explore its limitations, is on a race track.
Compared to the Golf GTI, the steering feels slightly heavier and that seems to work well in the R32 given the additional weight you are carrying with a V6. You’ll notice the blue brake callipers which sit on top of some very large vented brake discs. These units are designed by Volkswagen and provide Brembo-like stopping power with little or no brake fade after heavy use.
In and out of corners, it’s hard to go wrong in the R32, given the technology built into the vehicle. You get: 4Motion all-wheel drive, ABS, ASR, EBA, EBD and ESP, which all come together to make this car, performance friendly.
I’ve driven both the Japanese bad boys, Mitsubishi’s EVO 1X and Subaru’s WRX STI and I’m comfortable in saying that the R32 has the power and agility to at least keep up with these demons on any sort of twisty stretch, whilst providing an infinitely more comfortable ride.
STYLING
Standing behind the R32 for the first time, you’d be excused for thinking that a reputable after-market performance tuning company had got to work on the standard Golf and produced something a little special. First off, you’ll notice that this car has been lowered (by 20mm over the standard Golf). Secondly, two very large polished stainless exhaust pipes are a giveaway along with the purposeful 18 inch multi-spoked Zolder alloys.
From all other angles, the subtle brush has been applied to the R32, such as the deeper colour coded side skirts and Jetta style front grille, although this is a polished stainless look, rather than chrome. There is no ‘Golf’ badging anywhere just R32 on the front and rear of the car. Noticeably missing, are front driving/fog lights found on lesser Golf models, but don’t worry, they’ve been replaced by a set of Bi-Xenon headlights, which could provide enough light for a night game at the MCG. Incidentally, Bi-Xenon means that both the low beam and high beam lights are Xenon powered.
BEHIND THE WHEEL
Inside the R32, it’s familiar territory if you’ve spent some time in the current Golf GTI. However, there are a few features which are unique to this car, such as the milled aluminium strips that you’ll find along the doors panels, dash, and around the centre console, which add a prestige look. Careful attention has been paid to the design and function of the large foot pedals, which are polished alloy with rubber inlays and work a treat, if you’re lucky enough to be behind the wheel of this car. The switchgear and instrumentation is pretty much of the same high quality you’ll find in other Golf models although, you do get some cool blue transparent needles which sweep all dials. Nice.
The standard leather sports seats are from the Golf GTI and are as good as you get in performance cars. However, if you reckon you need even more side bolster than these, and I don’t, then you could go for the optional Recaro Racing Seats which do look sensational, but at over $3,000 you might have second thoughts.
The proper sports steering wheel is also lifted from the GTI, and is a superb three-spoke model with a Formula One style flat bottom incorporating audio and trip functions along with gear shift paddles.
INTERIOR COMFORT
The R32 is a luxury ride, no question. The standard Golf with leather upholstery is a nice place to be, but the R32 comes locked and loaded with a bunch of techno toys that sort this model out from the rest of the range.
The inventory of standard features is way too long to list, but the goodies include; Dual Zone electronic climate control with dust and pollen filter, Automatic dimming rear view mirror, Automatic headlights on – with coming/leaving home function (when you hit the remote unlock or lock button the headlights light up for a set time) 8 Channel 250W amplifier with 10 speakers and 6 disc changer (definitely better than my Yamaha home system) Chillable glove box and rain sensing wipers. All the other creature comforts are there such as front an rear cup holders and 12V sockets, but one thing you don’t get, is electric folding side mirrors, mandatory if you go anywhere near a shopping centre these days.
SPACE, STORAGE AND PRACTICALITY
The five-door R32 in comparison to the three-door version is much more than just a luxury hot hatch. It can comfortably transport 2 adults and 3 kids to the shopping mall or convert to a small station wagon by folding the rear seat backs down. There are heaps of thoughtful storage areas throughout the car and the load space behind the rear seats particularly large. The interior is well lit with individual map reading/games playing lights at both ends, together with foot well illumination up the front. There’s also the little things in the R32 (and much of it in the standard Golf) like proper grab handles all round so you can close the doors with ease and the separate bookshelf in the glove box for the owner’s manual, so you can still fit a couple of cokes in there to chill, that make this car the inspired all rounder it is. You won’t even need a bottle opener, it comes with one!
SAFETY FEATURES
In days gone by, performance cars were lucky if they came with a seatbelt. These days, there’s a vast array of safety features built in to these cars and the R32 gets the lot. Airbags include; Driver and front passenger airbags, Driver and front passenger side airbags and Curtain airbags, front and rear.
As we all know, airbags might save your life in a crash but it’s the active safety features which can help you avoid the crash in the first place and again, the R32 has these systems in spades. You get Anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake Pressure Distribution and Brake assist in the stopping department. In the Traction control area, the car is fitted with Anti-Slip regulation, Electronic Stabilisation Program and 4Motion all-wheel drive and that’s about as good as it gets in any price performance car.
Front seatbelts are height adjustable with pre-tensioners and belt force limiters while three-point seatbelts are fitted times three in the rear.
For kids, there are three child seat anchor points along with ISOFIX anchorages which although a standard in Europe due to their ease of fit and added safety benefits, have not been embraced here in Australia for reasons which require some investigation.
COST OF OWNERSHIP
At $58,460 with the DSG, the R32 is a bargain when compared to its closest rival, the rear-wheel-drive BMW 130i Sport with a 6-speed automatic box, which will cost you $65,800.
If you don’t have kids, then the three-door R32 with DSG at $57,238 is a no brainer.
Given the 2006 R32 is quite a few thousand cheaper than the previous Mk 1V edition and loaded with way more wizardry, Volkswagen Australia should sell comfortably higher numbers than the previous model, assuming they have the stock, that is.
If you’re lucky enough to afford one of these beauties, it’s doubtful that you’ll want to coast around without occasionally exploring the many talents this car is blessed with. If that be the case, I’m not sure that the combined fuel consumption figure of 9.8L/100km is all that relevant as is, the fact that the R32 like the good stuff.
COLOURS
There are only four exclusive colours on offer with the R32 (Deep Blue, Black Magic, Reflex Silver and United Grey) and I’d be happy with any one of them.
MY OPINION
If you’re looking for a performance car, a luxury car, a family car, and a safe car at the right price, then look no further than the Volkswagen Golf R32.
By Anthony Crawford.
Tags: Volkswagen Golf, Volkswagen Golf R32
Man, If I had the money, it would be hard to get an STi over this car. It just looks amazing. I wonder how many are coming to Australia?
Firstly i commend “Anthony Crawford” on the good job on covering the all the cars features and both the positives and negatives that are associated with this motor car.
I was contemplating on purchacing a new Golf R32 but i needed a little bit more convincing before doing so, in which this article has tempted me further.
I look forward into finding out more about this wonderful VW. Im addicted to cars that posses speed, luxury and agressive styling all in one package (which is hard to find in this day and age for the right $)
If there is any additional infomation, pictures,videos etc… that would be of any relevance towards the VW please send it to the above Email address.
regards
Jscanu.
Hey mate,
you can find a great deal of photos and more specific model information on VWs Australian site
http://volkswagen.com.au/golf/model_R32.asp
I have a Deep Blue Pearl 2 Dr R32…..(DSG + Sunroof) great fun, sounds awsome… (My wife had a genV GTI till recently) I would recomend the R32! (wish it had another 20 – 30 KW’s though)
My new 07 R32 will arrive in two weeks.Dsg ,sunroof.Have been waiting 8 months for delivery and cant wait to meet the beast.”o” I forgot to mention I have a Milltek Catback exhaust in transit from the UK and will combine that with airbox,filter and chip/remap.Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm what do you think guys?Will it go.
It will go like hell mate,
but so will your warranty!
If your getting it chipped and tuned, make sure the chip ur getting is easily “removable” or at least easy to turn off, I am not sure about VW but other car makers will use a chip as an excuse to not even fix simple things like loose door trims!
I too have an R32 coming (although just found out it is delayed until “some time before April 6th” — DOH!!!
All I can say is I CANT WAIT!!!!!
Great review!
It was one of my sources of reseach when looking to buy an R32… which I did!
I ordered a 5 door, United Grey Manual R32 with sunroof and bluetooth integration at the end of February and got the car a week and a half later, last Tuesday week.
I was told that there was a shipment coming in and that there was a car in the colour I wanted, with the factory fitted options I wanted unallocated, 2007 spec.
I love the car!!
I hear these horror stories of people waiting 6 – 8 months for their R32s and I wonder… was I extremely lucky, or did I maybe get an older car?
I have still been unable to find reliable information as to the differences between Australian issue 2006 and 2007 spec R32s and would like to check that I do in fact have a new model.
Where can I find the differences? My VIN seems to be an 07 model.
Cheers.
Hi Guys,
Anthony’s article did it for me to! That and a test drive. Get my black fully spec’d R32 tomorrow (no sat nav-refer article) and waited 6 weeks to get it. One question, has anyone used the launch control trick which has been mentioned in a few reviews?
Paul Maric – another motoring journo at Car Advice advises that “launch control is available on all DSG models.
You shift the lever to ‘S’ mode, disable ESP, hold your foot on the brake pedal, whilst at the same time depressing the throttle. The revs will rise to 3000RPM whilst the car holds still.
Keep your foot flat on the gas and let go of the brake pedal and hold on for your God damn life!”
I’ve got to try that trick ASAP!
Cheers
Anthony Crawford
Rock and Roll Anthony!!
Any other tricks I should know about for my new rocket?
Thanks for the tip.
Nic
Is the Bluetooth phone unit standard in the R32 and has anyone used it? What phones does it work with?
Yes, I got my new R32 in March and have the VW bluetooth module installed.
It is NOT standard, it was $500.
It works a treat.
I can’t imagine what I did without it now.
Hi Guys,
Nice review! you’re comments have me wondering though…
Our ‘new’ R32 3drDSG arrives in a week (2 weeks for delivery!), I noticed the VIN number has DEC2006 on it. Can somebody advise whether they have a newer VIN on their ‘2007′ model car? Is my model a real 2007 spec R32??
Also can somebody tell me what is the accepted KM count on a new R32, i have been advised by the dealer that they can be anything from 30kms-50kms, supposedly clocked in dock delivery and registration… which sounds like a pathetic excuse for a number of demo drives to me.
Cheers,
Ivor
My previous car was an Alfa 147 – great styling – clever 2 door look – sexy car – OK performance. However, I did have some issues with the Selespeed… on more than one occassion. So was very nervous when buying my R32 with DSG. (Alfa owners will know the feeling)
However, the DSG is fantastic!!!!!
Only issue with the R32 I have had so far is a sometimes noisy left front break on slow, tight right hand turns. VW service couldn’t fix it… said it was a known issue. It does seem to be abaiting over time. Anyone else had this problem?
Only two negatives I could say about the R32 is the SAT NAV graphics and the CD players. The SAT NAV system works fine – but the graphics are very simple indeed. The CD player doesn’t seem to have a pause or stop button?? and it can’t play MP3 discs. Just as well it has a 6 disc stacker I guess.
Also, one other thing I did note, is that my car was built in Italy… so, understandably… I am nervous again! :-/
Italy?
I thought all Aussie R32s were made in Wolfburg.
I know from my VIN that mine was made in Germany.
This is very interesting.
I’ve also not heard of (nor experienced) the front left brake issue. Perhaps it is a known issue with the Italian built machines?
That’s what I thought too… A friend of mine who has a GTI has the same “Made in Italy” stamped on the inside lip/edge engine bay area. Seems I can’t escape the “Italian touch”.
Also, I tried using the launch control and it seems to be deactivated on my car? :-(
I took delivery of my Black DSG Sunroof R32 10 days ago. It has the 6CD MP3 In-dash and the Bluetooth module.
It replaced 2 cars for me… A 2005 Toyota Hilux 4.0 V6 Doublecab 4×4 (awesome truck) and a BMW Z3 3.2 MotorSport.
It was meant to be a compromise for me, as I needed to reclaim some garage space, as well as having to fit my 6′6″ frame…
I was afraid I’d the comfort of my truck, and the sportiness of the Z3…
NO COMPROMISE INVOLVED…..
What an incredible car, my girlfriend has asked me when I plan to buy the car a ring… She knows it’s true love.
The DSG is AWESOME, and the angry piece of kit under the bonnet makes fantastic noises.
Mine is VIN 2007, built in Wolfsburg, and has no noisy left front brakes.
I consider myself converted to the religion of R32….
Question for the lucky people who own or have driven the R32.
How’s the engine noise? I’ve read that it’s loud. Does the cabin filter out most of it so it’s a nice relaxing drive when you’re around town or more importantly stuck in traffic?
I’d go for a test drive myself but I’m not at the stage (financially) to bug a sales person.
Thanks,
James
James,
engine noise, as long as it is driven normally is marginally louder than a typical car. If driven hard it can be very loud. I dont think it is somehting to worry about.
BTW dont test drive it unless you are in a position to buy it, you WILL want one…
R32 Brief
MY08 SPec with the new upgrades ie MP3 and New Alloys
no rattles tight as a drum
not noisy at all, in fact its quiet if driven gently and you still have plenty of speed with light throttle
floor it and it opens up and gets loud but a ripper soundtrack
I looked at an R32 earlier in the year and fell under the spell as well. I have since looked at the new Subaru and an Audi 3.2 V6 which has the same motor and DSG gearbox as the R32. My main concern is the negative press about VW reliability and quality control. I undertsand that this golf is built in Germany. Does anybody have any views or could point me to some data on this quality issue. Thanks.
I’d like to make the observation that the current Golf line up is as dull as dishwater! They have very little style to them, and their dashboards are designed like a commercial van’s, high up with no attempt to add any flair or class. Our ex neighbour had one and he said the plastics have gone backwards since the previous model too. Since all I ever read from the motoring press is how excellent the interior and dash is of the Golf, you’d have to wonder if VW is shoving alot of money or sweeteners out there for positive press, as there is absolutely nothing special about the Golf’s interior at all. Go buy a 1 series, C30, or Alfa 147 instead. At least you’ll be passionate about your premium hatch, not bored shitless and left underdone…
I’ve heard and read plenty of stories about bad quality cars. I’ve owned a liberty and 3 BMW’s, recently a 330i. I can write many horrific stories about the horrific build quality of those makes. the liberty was the new spec 3.0R I cannot understand why this car gets good write ups. the dash creaks badly. I had brake shudder which took three attempts to fix and the back window rattled. The answer I got about the squeaking dash was to live with it as this is how it is designed. the plastic in this centre console was awful hard and cheap. i’ll never buy another subaru product. There were many other faults. i also know others with the same problems.
The BMW were no better although made in South Africa, maybe this is why?
I owned the previous generation Golf x 2 and its was worse than all of the above. I vowed never to go down the VW path again. But I did as i could not find a small powerful hatch Auto. I chose the R32 as they are made in Germany.
I think that the new dash is better designed and looks better than the BMW3 series as well as the previous models Golf. Thats my opinion. It certainly is stronger made than all of them.
So far I cannot fault the build. I have friends with Golf 5’s and none have any complaints. i know which make i will be buying next.
The German VW are made by robots, the South African VW’s are made by hand (more chance of error or parts left out) there is only so many quality checks that can be done.
DA, you must be the unluckiest person going round to get the one dodgy subaru. I have never heard of a subaru go wrong, and my liberty has never had any of those problems. Any problems outright. Unlucky
Hi Tom
Maybe I’m just ultra fussy. But that centre console in the liberty which is made of cheap plastic have you not noticed it creaks? I had a 3.0R with the mackintosh head unit. Look it wasn’t a bad car and certainly better built than the BMW I’ve had but this R32 so far has rated the best overall.
Noticed I’m getting 10 – 12litre per 100km’s with normal city driving no freeways which is fantastic.
fgfg
DAAAAAAAAAAA. Only the 4 cylinder BMWS are made in SA! All other 3 ,5 ,6 and 7 are German!
Mate I get 10-12 lites per 100ks in an M3 !!! Not that I give a flying fig about fuel economy! You shouldn’t in a REAL performance car!
Agree with Tom on the Subaru ! I would put them up with the top 3 Japanese car makers for affordable driving. HONDA,MAZDA AND SUBARU! Great quality !
What about a Spanish GTI ???
Sorry didnt know, only the 4 cylinders were made in South Africa. I had a 330i E46 it had to go back for the idrive computer to be replaced about three times. it also rattled in the roof lining doors and back board. had it for 6 months. you right about the fuel I dont really care but it always nice to know. I must say the BMW where good on gas. Also when i picked up the loner 320I BMW’s when mine went in for service or repairs they always felt better built than my 330i.
I am enjoying the R32, this one I plan to keep for a while unlike the rest.
Looking forward to reading up on the new Skodas that are coming to Australia.
Hey DA..never owned anything but 6 cylinders in BMWs, I have always found them to be great cars for me,now had 6! I drive sucks from all reports I have heard!
Not saying VWs aren’t ,especially the R32S and GTIs…… I am too much of a hoon in my old age now,love my M3!
Looking forward to Tonyns report after driving the V8 this weekend! Awesome car to see,hope the rest lives up to M3s reputation!
I’ve owned a Honda Euro that I’ve added some performance bits and mods to. Great car — really well built, goes and handles well, and drives beautifully. I want more performance without losing the quality and feel of the Euro… the car costs stuff all to run & besides oil/filter/fuel/rego/insurance.
Considering a used Evo IX or VW R32 but am not sure if I’ll get the same long term reliability, durability and ownership satisfaction.
hmmm, was looking at an R32, but after a drive of a friend’s, I’m not convinced. Just all a bit souless to me. I find the GTi a more exciting car to drive, or the Megane for that matter – at much less $$$. The beemer is not a contender, over priced etc etc. Seems the yanks are feeling the same way about the R32 too, they imported quite a few thousand, and evidently over half are still sitting in the dealerships. Perhaps the alfa is worth a look? Just not much in this range unfortunately.
I am looking at buying a 5 door R32, want to know is it worth paying the extra for the dsg or should i stick with the 6 speed manual. has anyone had any serious problems with one, I had a 03 vw gti and had a lot of problems with it, now have a 06 subaru sti it is a piece of crap so many problems, will never buy a subaru product again. any info on r32 much appricated
Hello Steve
I’ve have had my mk5 r32 for 18 months now, and its a hoot to drive. The only fault I can think of is a fan noise in the centre of the dash every so often. I have yet to track down the cause.The DSG is well worth the cash if you drive it during peak hours.Get the sun roof and leave it open!!!!!!!!!! I have been told there is a radio in the vehicle but the soundtrack coming from the back of the car makes the radio redundant!!!!!!!!!!!
Howdi Steve,
Have had my R32 since the start of this year – MY08 5 Door, 6 speed manual, best car have EVER owned by far…the grin factor is just off the chart. I test drove both DSG and manual and settled on a manual. Its a hoot to drive and the build quality is brilliant too. A mate of mine has a Liberty GT and its falling apart on him. Maybe Subaru have dropped their game.
PS to the other poster stating a GTA has more “soul”….mate – get a grip – take an R32 for a spin and see for yourself. A mate of mine has a GTA and he wishes he bought the R32. He hates the FWD with such a powerful engine. Chq out the topgear clips on youtube too.
lovely car.
The R32 is also like $15k more then the GTi… bang for your buck the Gti offers more, but hte R32 overall is better. My only worry would be VWs history in quality and reliability.. or should I say, lack thereof
Its about time, others commented on Subaru’s crap quality plastic crap dashboards that creak. I had a liberty 3.0R now have a R32 its been 6 months and its perfect. fit and finish, detail in the design is superb. its hard when you compare the GTI dollar with the R32. but buying a GTI you will always long for the R32.
Just purchased manual r32 6 speed manual 5 door. This car is a gem! Can carry the family, good size boot, goes like mad and handles well. What more can you want? Value for money is unbeatable….
Congrats CD – have had mine for 2months now and I have already put on more k’s than I did in half a year last year! (sucks living so close to work! can’t beleive it just said that! hehe)
Exact same spec as mine – 5Dr, 6Spd Manual.
Have fun mate.
Picking mine up tomorrow. 4-Door Deep Blue Pearl with the Recaro seats. I find that those own and drive the car love the vehicle dynamics (saw a nice article about a guy who would let his Porsche 993 go before his R32!)and “livability” while those who don’t drive it on a regular basis can’t get their head around why one would pay such a premium over the GTI!
Personally, coming from a TT225, I’m ready for a change – the TT was a Golf with pretty clothes, now I’m getting a TT with Golf practicality…
Guys, I’m interested to hear from all you R32 owners whether you have encountered the same problems that WHEELS reported in the comparison of the R32 with the Impreza STi.
They reportedly loved the R32 but had problems with the boofy wheel and tyre combo rubbing on the insides of the guards. Does this happen in everyday driving or just if you flog the bejeezus out of it? It seems odd that something so basic would have slipped the R & D guys.
Hi Golfschwein
The tyres rubbing on the guards only happens when you take it to the race track and hammer it, mostly happens on left handers on full load, only ever seen it happen at oran park in last turn onto main straight, it is only very slight then, does not damage any thing
Haven’t experienced the rubbing yet….Look, if you want to take it to the track then it may be a problem, but in this era of, ahem, efficient speed detection, I don’t think its a real worry. My biggest problem at the moment is wondering what the hell I could possibly afford to replace this thing when it is due…it is that good. I look at my neighbours RS4 and apart from being faster, I don’t see any advantage in ownership. Love the look of the BMW 335i coupe though……
I didn’t actually test drive a GTI b4 buying the R32. To me, the alloys on the GTI look too small. Aside from the look, I think I probably would have bought the GTI on a value for money basis. What the GTI doesn’t have is “the” sound. That alone was worth the extra money.
Pickup my 2008 built 5 door manual (silver) R32 in 6 weeks. Owned a GTi for the last 3 years. Nice car. R32 is in another league! Almost bought the Audi S3 but the R32 stayed with me after the test drives (even though the interior was a bit slicker). Mainly due to the sound track. Test driving both cars through the Adelaide hills was insane fun. Car is coming with the new VW navi (RNS510). Anyone played with that sucker yet? Dealer in Adelaide is clueless about it.
Regarding R32, it is better than other cars I driven (911 1986, Rx7 VI, STi, Evo VII, M3 2000, and the list goes on. I have taken 40KM corners on road at 90-100km, I have not lost control in wet even when I try hard to lose control. I have thrashed this car, and it keeps its consistancy and no complains. The 4 motion is awesome, paddles awesome for down shifting, and stability is like the ICE train in europe. I need to chip this car because ALL i want is about 30-40 BHP more, so the R36 2010 car will be the ultimate, where I will buy it and park it in garage and hoepfully it will sell for $1m after 30 years, just like the GTHO
OH i forgot to mention to ALL you R32 enthusiats
Do you always accelarate upto a GTI when you see one on the raod, just to pull up next to them in traffic and see their jaw drop, with a sign on their facing stating “I wish I had one of those”….he he I love it….
GTI is no comparison to R32. completely different handling cars..
Even my wife says “See the guys face in that GTI, HE WANTS YOUR CAR”. It speaks for itself.
hi wondering if any body can help me,
Is it possible to fit 19′ wheel and tyres to a r32 and if so what type and where from. some people have told me you cant fit 19s hard to belive.
thanks
stevepol@bigpond.net.au
Could any one else comment on Audi S3 vs R32? I have not had either, new to the world of Golf’s (have an Audi A4 now)and would appreciate feedback.
Cheers
I have an r32, I test drove the s3 twice, i felt the r32 was more drivable better power down out of corners greater handling and stability, bigger inside,4 doors is great for me,i liked r32 dash layout better, comes down to how you feel when you drive the cars really, take both for a good drive and see how you feel.
Thanks Steve, will do
Hi Tony,
I have an MY08 R32, my partner has an MY08 S3 so I drive both on a daily basis.
Here are my pros and cons for both cars:
R32 Pros: – Amazing exhaust note
– Low down acceleration
– Passenger mirror dips when reverse is engaged – handy for not kerbing rims when parking.
– Interior almost identical to GTI – although the speedo/tacho look ultra cool with their blue lit needles
– Grip from AWD – they use the same AWD system so they are pretty similar in this regard.
R32 Cons: – Fuel consumption – I average 13L/100 but generally only do inner Melbourne driving. I don’t drive to conserve fuel, I drive to have fun. On the highway I get 7.9L/100.
S3 Pros: – Amazing interior.
– Very exclusive.
– Better AUDI service than VW dealerships – although my VW experience has been pretty good, only downside was it took longer to get to me from Patricks (docks).
– Better high end acceleration. A real flyer high up in the rev range.
– We have ours in white and it looks pretty amazing from the outside.
S3 Cons: – Ordinary exhaust note. (When compared with the R)
– Cost over R32, although its alot more exclusive.
– Less low down acceleration than R32.
– Only two door and its a pain in the arse to stash things in the back seat. (My R32 is 5Dr)
– “BOSE” stereo shouldn’t be considered high end…its OK but not as good as other BOSE car system I have heard.
To sum up…both are great 10/10 cars. If you are tall like me 6ft5 then grab the R32, alot more roomier. We have the S3 optioned with a sunroof and my head JUST clears the roof.
Hope that helps!
Steve.
Further to previous comment, that interior similarity to the GTI was supposed to be a con. The interior on the R is nice…but its not in the same ball park as his S3.
Also – no room for gym water bottles in the S3. (I can’t believe that one!)
Also x2 – the Bluetooth system in the Audi is AMAZING. Full functionality, phone book access, voice recognition. Wipes the R32 bluetooth system.
Take 2…..further to previous comment…..there is a cupholder in the S3 but you lose the centre console armrest…..would have made more sense to create cupholder/gym bottle holder grooves in the door skins similar to the way VW did in the R.
Thanks SteveR32.
I have a test drive lined up of both this week, so will get a sense of what you are talking about “live”.
Looking forward to it!!!!
No worries mate – enjoy! They really are terrific little cars for the money.
hi am deya am lovely golf r32 gti passat because very beatiful and sport motor am lovely golf ful aption
SteveR32
How many K’s are you getting on a full tank?
Hi Donnie,
To be honest mate, I haven’t really checked! hehe
I will try it out with my next tank of fuel.
According to the trip computer I average 12.5l/100 but I know that that can be out of whack so will assess my next tank for you.
That seems excessive but I don’t exactly drive to conserve fuel.
On the highway I get down to 7.8ish which is great for this type of car.
Steve.
Further to my previous post. I have done 9000k’s on my R32 so the engine will be well run in.
Hi There
I have my08 3 door R32, wondered if anyone can tell me if the latest releases come standard with the new cd player with the LCD screen even if you do not take the satnav option?
Also can you get them in white now? they are that good i am thinking of going for another one for the family 5 door.
Hi
I get 530-550km out of a tank of fuel mainly city driving. By the way i dont flog my car like some clowns that drive r32’s. yes you can get white now.
My only con is road noise on coarse chip WA roads. The great pro is the linear push and the grip – especially in the wet, truly amazing – or watching v8’s give up in fear in the rain.
The R32 will retain more value than a GTI because there will be no other V6 powered Golf in the future, the VR6 (R32’s predecessor) and R32 will be the only ones because of more stringent emission laws and taxes coming into place in the near future to not justify the production of V6 powered small cars, unfortunately.
Definitely a modern classic, if you can afford it over a GTI then you will not regret it one bit!
In regards of the quality and reliability of the R32, who gives a !@#$, for a soulless A to B car of course that matters, but in this category people who care about that are geeks/dorks or whatever and should be driving a soulless geekmobile, duh!
I purchased my R32 in June 07.
Went for the DSG, after being a manual driver all my life. Personally i think the DSG offers the best of both worlds once you know how to use it !
Car had a few issues with at first with noisy brake calipers, and a steering rack which needed to be replaced one week after owning the car !!!
Also rattles coming from the door skins and speakers.
Apart from these minor, niggly things, the car has awesome performance, it feels very solid, and packs a lot of bang per buck. There is no use comparing this car to a golf GTI, its a totally different car depsite the looks.
This car has the feel of a more expensive car.
Pity they are not going to make it any more. I was looking forward to a more suped up version, maybe a golf r32 RS or something, nevermind, this car will become a classic.
highly recommended.
What octane petrol 95 or 98 for R32?
Beautiful Car, beautiful. Nothing faster up the Macquarie Pass.