While many "R" enthusiasts swear by the exclusive six-speed manual in the past generation, it's hard to discredit the latest (and possibly last) top of the line Golf...Rabbit...what do they call it now? Doesn't matter. It's a hot hatch either way.
Available with one trim and two options (Navigation and ipod connection), the R32 is loaded and ready for fun. Only found in a two door with Volkswagen's new automatic DSG (dual clutch) transmission, the 2008 R32 provokes mixed feelings from a devoted crowed of followers. Some say that VW has gone soft by offering such an iconic and powerful car without a standard (not even an optional) manual tranny. You could say the motive is to captivate a larger audience, allowing drivers who prefer automatic to purchase this otherwise exclusive vehicle. However, with only 5000 coming to the U.S. each year, that answer is considered myth-busted.
Even without the preferred manual tranny, the R32 is a beast to be reckoned with. It's little brother, the GTI, is 400 pounds lighter and only 0.5 seconds slower in 0-60 time, and is affordably priced when pitted against the R. However, with a few nicer upgrades, 50 more hp, and Volkswagen's signature "4Motion," the R32 feels much more refined and glued to the road. It's exhaust note sounds like, should ginormous amounts of catnip fall from heaven, a lion's purr.
When compared to Japan's evil twins, the Evo and the STI, the R32 can't quite keep up in a sprint, but neither of the former can match the R's refinement and near luxury. Overall, despite being a tad slower, the R32 is incomparably solid, allowing for a comfortable and engaging daily driver with immediate power through it's naturally aspirated V6. The turbocharged demons from Japan suffer, like nearly every other t-charged car, from turbo lag.
Though my drive only lasted a few minutes, I loved the feeling of the R32. The hatch looks great and allows for diversity which cannot be found in a standard sedan or coupe. Would I own one? I surely wouldn't mind. Though I'm partial to four doors, this two-door hatch has certainly made me re-think my ways.
Thanks for reading.
-Biggs
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