The Return of the Worlds Most Powerful Golf
Golf Photos
A New R32 Promises Porsche Levels of Performance
When Volkswagen launched the original Golf R32 in August of 2002, it had concocted a recipe for success. Body kit, sports suspension, big wheels, and most importantly a 241-horsepower narrow-angle V6 engine made it a hit even bigger than VW imagined. More than three times the number of R32s originally intended were built, a sure sign that Volkswagen would return down the ultra-performance Golf road.
Once production of the Mk.IV R32 had ended, there was much speculation to the following model, and in particular what engine would be used. It was thought that to ensure total domination of the high-performance hot hatch market, VW would opt for a 280-horsepower narrow-angle 3.6-liter V6 (see Mk.VI Passat for details). Complete with permanent all-wheel drive, and the globally-acclaimed DSG six-speed twin-clutch sequential manual gearbox, the proposed R36 would elevate the Golf nameplate to the level of Mitsubishis Lancer Evolution and Subarus Impreza WRX STi.
However, we were wrong - for Europe, at least. The new range-topping Golf, to be available in both three and five-door body styles has caught most off guard by retaining the R32 name, designating that the engine will continue to be 3.2 liters in displacement. The same narrow-angle V(R)6 engine is used, but it gains FSI direct injection, the same fuel-delivery technology used in many new VW and Audi engines. The performance and economy boosting fuel delivery system adds 10-horsepower to the engine, for a class-leading total of 250.
Unlike its European rivals, the 250-horsepower Alfa Romeo 147 GTA, the 237-horsepower Opel Astra OPC, and the upcoming Mazda3 MPS (MazdaSpeed3), the Golf features all-wheel drive, with power directed through VWs Haldex-based 4Motion system. Drivers have a choice between two gearboxes: a short-throw six-speed manual, or as an option, the aforementioned six-speed twin-clutch actuated DSG sequential manual gearbox. With more power, more traction and more advanced transmissions, the new R32 is also one of the quickest Golfs ever, posting a 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of just 6.1 seconds for DSG-equipped cars. Top speed is slightly higher at 155 mph.
Volkswagen didnt go into great detail about the new cars 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 R32s 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 R32s exterior has permeated the cars 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 R32s cockpit is its front seats. These heavily-bolstered, leather-trimmed buckets wouldnt 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 VWs 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.
The Golf R32 3-door and 5-door hatchbacks will make their international debut at this years Frankfurt motor show in mid-September, but for those who want in on the action sooner, Volkswagen of Germany has announced a presale, starting August 19th. VW expects first deliveries to begin at the end of September, shortly after its first showing. Pricing will begin at 32,200 euro, which is equivalent to $39,750. Thats a lot of money for a Golf! But thats also a lot of performance, technology and luxury to boot.
There is word, however, that the performance VW destined for North America will be something greater than the Golf R32 previewed in this article. It has been rumored that development of the R36 is underway, and will be fitted to not only the Golf body style, but the more popular Jetta sedan as well, to compete in the 300-horsepower crowd. If this is indeed true, theres still plenty of time left to complete development; the regular Golf is still about a years wait away.
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