The 2008 Volkswagen R32 classifies as a five-passenger hatchback with all-wheel drive. Introduced in 2004, the initial plan did not include sending any of the R32s to the U.S., but fortunately, the plan changed and Volkswagen sent 5000 to the U.S.
The R32 has the unusual combination of comfort and performance and offers a bargain when compared to its competitors.
The R32 might be a bit pricey for some. However, if you consider the rare combination of a V-6 in a compact and a comfortable, luxurious, and fast ride desirable, you might not mind the price tag.
The Range
Body Styles: two-door hatchback
Engines: 3.2-liter V-6
Transmissions: six-speed automated manual
Models: Volkswagen R32
What's New
The 2008 Volkswagen R32 returns with a 250-horsepower V-6 and all-wheel drive. It comes loaded with luxury features. The dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) combines a seven-gear gearbox and the first dual-clutch gearbox. This feature gives the convenience of an automatic and the dynamic drive of the manual transmission. This provides a new feature that many consumers fall in love with after a while.
Exterior
The 2008 Volkswagen R32 includes standard exterior features such as xenon headlights, a unique aluminum grille, 18-inch alloy wheels with optional all-season tires, center-mounted dual exhaust, intermittent front and rear wipers, rain-sensing wipers, power mirrors, and a rear spoiler at the back of the roof.
Interior
The 2008 Volkswagen R32 comes filled with standard luxury features. Occupants sink into luxurious, soft, leather bucket seats in the front, which feel exceedingly comfortable. Additional features include a thick, leather-wrapped, D-shaped steering wheel with mounted audio controls and paddles for manual shifting. The rear seats have enough room to get in and out of easily. The dash, console, and door panels feature modern aluminum trim with a sporty style. The main gauges look easy to read; however, some of the other gauges seem very small. The controls appear well laid-out for the most part and easily accessible.
Convenient features include durable dual cup holders in the front and rear, a cargo area light, front door pockets, front and rear reading lights, remote trunk release, front seatback storage, power windows, power door locks, and 12-volt front and cargo area power outlets. In addition, the cargo area looks roomy, with a wide opening that can be enlarged further by folding the rear seatbacks forward.
Comfort features include cruise control, dual-zone climate control, interior air filtration, and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel.
The R32 features an AM/FM stereo and an in-dash, six-disc CD player with 10 speakers and a Sirius satellite radio.
Amazingly, this entire list of features comes standard with the exception of the navigation system, which remains optional.
Performance & Handling
If you have a road trip coming up, the 2008 Volkswagen R32 is the car to drive. The comfortable and supportive bucket seats are a dream for a long ride and the lumbar support prevents the backache that frequently comes with many miles on the road. In addition to that, the all-wheel drive gives you the road grip you need to handle the pep the R32 gives you. If the weather turns bad, not to worry, the R32 holds to the road in inclement weather.
The R32 performs well on twisty roads and does outstanding on curves. The communicative steering and all-wheel drive hold you in the bend without much steering adjustment.
Safety
The 2008 Volkswagen R32 comes equipped to keep occupants safe and sound with features such as front and rear head airbags, front and side-curtain airbags, a remote anti-theft alarm system, an emergency braking system, front and rear ventilated disc brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, and an engine immobilizer. Additional safety equipment includes high-pressure washers for the headlights, self-leveling headlights, a tire-pressure monitoring system, daytime running lights, and stability and traction control that help keep the R32 on the road in adverse conditions.
EPA Fuel Economy
Volkswagen R32: 18/23 mpg city/highway
You'll Like
- 250-horsepower V-6
- Standard luxury features
- Rare
- Comfortable and fast
You Won't Like
- Heavy on twisty roads
- Pricey for a compact
Sum Up
A pricey, hot car with luxury, performance, and exclusivity.
If You Like This Vehicle
- Mazda MAZDA3
- Volkswagen GTI
- Mini Cooper