Volkswagen didn't go into great detail about the new car's suspension or steering system. The R32 sits some 0.8 inches lower than the new GTI, riding on sport-tuned springs and dampers, and it is assumed that the electrically-assisted steering has undergone revision to boost
road feel and weight. There are few doubts about the claim that the new car will be better to drive than the old, which can be traced to the modern chassis with five-link rear suspension and more rigid body. If the reports on the new fifth-gen GTI are true, the R32 should be an absolute blast to drive.
The most potent VW hatchback will be distinguished from lesser models and the new GTI through a special exterior treatment. An aggressive body kit transforms the staid-looking Golf into a sports car-eating machine, with three gigantic intakes on the lower valance, providing air for the giant V6. Above, the chrome-surrounded grille receives two metal spars, and a small "R32" badge. The rear end of the car features a black-colored diffuser, and slight indents for the two, closely separated round cannon-style exhaust tips. The R32's chunky fenders are filled with 225-width 20-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Y-Rated (185 mph) tires.
The sporting character of the R32's exterior has permeated the car's interior. Alloy accents have been used throughout, on the dashboard and door trims, as well as on the racing-style pedals and foot rest. Borrowed
from the GTI is the flat-bottomed multi-function steering wheel, wrapped in perforated leather. But the most distinguishing factor about the R32's cockpit is its front seats. These heavily-bolstered, leather-trimmed buckets wouldn't look out of place in a rally or race-spec car.
In contrast to the purist (read: stripped-out) GTI, the R32 is loaded to the gills with luxury items. Standard equipment includes bright-as-day bi-xenon headlamps, Climatronic digital automatic climate control, a 300-watt 10-speaker premium stereo system, multi-function display, rain-sensing wipers, and a tire pressure monitor. The only major option worth considering is VW's navigation system. Safety equipment is also up to snuff; ABS brakes with brake-pedal assist, electronic stability control and a total of six airbags are all standard.
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| An aggressive body kit transforms the staid-looking Golf into a sports car-eating machine. (Photo: Volkswagen of America) |
The most potent VW hatchback will be distinguished from lesser models and the new GTI through a special exterior treatment. An aggressive body kit transforms the staid-looking Golf into a sports car-eating machine, with three gigantic intakes on the lower valance, providing air for the giant V6. Above, the chrome-surrounded grille receives two metal spars, and a small "R32" badge. The rear end of the car features a black-colored diffuser, and slight indents for the two, closely separated round cannon-style exhaust tips. The R32's chunky fenders are filled with 225-width 20-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Y-Rated (185 mph) tires.
The sporting character of the R32's exterior has permeated the car's interior. Alloy accents have been used throughout, on the dashboard and door trims, as well as on the racing-style pedals and foot rest. Borrowed
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| The most distinguishing factor about the R32's cockpit is its front seats. (Photo: Volkswagen of America) |
In contrast to the purist (read: stripped-out) GTI, the R32 is loaded to the gills with luxury items. Standard equipment includes bright-as-day bi-xenon headlamps, Climatronic digital automatic climate control, a 300-watt 10-speaker premium stereo system, multi-function display, rain-sensing wipers, and a tire pressure monitor. The only major option worth considering is VW's navigation system. Safety equipment is also up to snuff; ABS brakes with brake-pedal assist, electronic stability control and a total of six airbags are all standard.