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- All-wheel-drive powertrain
- Smooth, powerful V6
- Fun-to-drive performance
- Good build quality, upscale interior
- DSG automated manual transmission
- High price
- Lack of distinction, prestige
- Heavy curb weight
- Lack of conventional manual transmission
The sophisticated all-wheel-drive powertrain and smooth V6 engine are almost universally praised as highlights of the limited-production Volkswagen R32. With secure handling and outstanding traction, the sporty R32 gets kudos for its fun and engaging driving experience. The Volkswagen R32 comes well equipped with a 250-hp V6, all-wheel drive and VW's well-regarded Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) automated manual transmission. A host of upscale interior features such as leather-upholstered sports seats come standard. The R32's lofty price is mentioned by virtually every review, with some critics wanting a more distinctive car, rather than one that is only slightly different visually from the VW Rabbit/GTI on which it is based.
Some critics suggest saving thousands and getting almost as much performance by opting for the front-drive Volkswagen GTI (*est. $22,800 to $24,375). Others want a more prestigious brand name for the same money, suggesting the BMW 1-series (*est. $28,600 to $39,100), Mercedes C-Class (*est. $31,600 to $36,900) or Audi A3 3.2 Quattro (*est. $34,915), which shares the VW's powertrain. Some criticize the lack of an available manual transmission, while others are fans of the DSG. Overall, many reviews conclude that the Volkswagen R32 offers a high level of comfort and fun-to-drive performance without "boy racer" looks.
The best reviews of the Volkswagen R32 can be found at Edmunds.com and The Car Connection. ForbesAutos.com has an interesting perspective on the R32's value, and notes that several other fine cars are available for a similar price. The Truth About Cars concludes that the Volkswagen GTI is a far better buy, while Cars.com is a good source for links to additional reviews.
Our Sources
1. Edmunds.com
Edmunds.com editors feel that the Volkswagen R32 is worth considering by those who want "something different that's fast, comfortable and rare," but they do question the lofty price.
Review: 2008 Volkswagen R32 Review, Editors of Edmunds.com
The Car Connection gives a good, descriptive analysis of the Volkswagen R32. Writer Eric Peters is impressed with the dual-clutch DSG transmission, but regrets that it is the only choice.
Review: 2008 Volkswagen R32 Review, Eric Peters
ForbesAutos.com's Volkswagen R32 review gives some good general impressions, and focuses on the car's biggest drawback: R32's price. Writer Lawrence Ulrich notes that there are many good cars to be had for the same money.
Review: Great Hatch, With a Catch, Lawrence Ulrich, May 15, 2008
4. Cars.com
This review is a rather dry summary of what the Volkswagen R32 is all about, but is more descriptive than critical. Cars.com also links to five other more colorful road test reviews that provide a good cross-section of opinions.
Review: 2008 Volkswagen R32 Review, Joe Wiesenfelder, Aug. 21, 2007
5. Car and DriverDetails/Subscribe
Car and Driver picks three all-wheel-drive performance cars with practicality, and the Volkswagen R32 finishes in the middle, behind the winning Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution GSR. Writer Mike Austin says it's "the car for the boy racer who has finally grown up."
Review: Subaru STi vs. Mitsubishi Evo vs. VW R32, Michael Austin, Mar. 2008
The Truth About Cars' Robert Farago raves about the Volkswagen R32's effortless, powerful drivetrain and nicely tuned suspension, but he dislikes the car's nose-heavy cornering and heavy steering.
Review: 2008 Volkswagen R32 Review, Robert Farago, Oct. 8, 2007
7. European Car
European Car magazine's Michael Febbo tests the Volkswagen R32 and covers his impressions in this mostly non-critical review. He loves the handling and build quality but complains that the car "could stand to lose a few pounds."
Review: The Ultimate European Hot Hatch?, Michael Febbo
8. Motor Week
MotorWeek's annual Drivers' Choice awards are given in 15 categories. The Volkswagen R32 wins the "best performance car" award for 2008, as a car with "lightning quick reflexes that allows it to leave many big-horsepower performance cars in its dust."
Review: Road Test: 2008 Volkswagen R32, Editors of MotorWeek
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