U.S. spec MKV R32 debuts

[Deutsch]

Feb 7, 2007
source: Volkswagen Press Release

Volkswagen of America, Inc. today announced the return of its motorsports-inspired R32 at the Chicago Auto Show. First introduced in 2004 to an enthusiastic reception, the R32 delivers the ultimate in Volkswagen sports performance with dynamic handling and refined road manners.

The R32’s power comes from a 3.2 L naturally aspirated 15-degree narrow angle V6 engine. With 250 horsepower and 236 ft. lbs. of torque, the R32 is all muscle. The standard 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system transfers at least 75 percent of available torque to the rear wheels. Volkswagen’s acclaimed DSG® transmission allows for seamless gear changes and accelerates from 0-60 in approximately 6.4 seconds.

With a fully independent multi-link rear suspension that sits wider and lower than its GTI sibling, the R32 flaunts its authority both inside and out. Twin chrome exhausts, 18-inch alloy wheels, Bi-Xenon headlights, a uniquely shaped front grille and R32 badging distinguish this car from anything else on the road. A rear roof spoiler and deep front spoiler, coupled with body-colored bumpers, side bump strips, door handles and door mirrors, add to the streamlined, sporty look.

The R32 boasts a long list of safety features, including Electronic Stabilization Program that reacts to critical driving situations in milliseconds by controlling the speed of individual wheels; and a confidence-inspiring Anti-Lock Braking System that helps to prevent wheels from locking under heavy braking. Brake Assist boosts brake pressure in emergency braking situations and the state-of-the-art Electronic Brake-pressure Distribution automatically varies the amount of force applied to each of a vehicle's brakes based on road and driving conditions.

Inside, the R32 takes it cues from racing with aluminum-look foot pedals and deep front sports seats. Features such as automatic climate control (Climatronic™), ten-speaker premium CD stereo system, rain sensing wipers, automatic dimming interior rear-view mirror, heatable front seats and heated washer nozzles, anti-theft alarm, cruise control and trip computer are standard luxuries that complement this performance-driven champ.

Volkswagen of America, Inc. anticipates significant consumer demand for its sporty new R32 performance model, debuting today at the Chicago Auto Show. The new R32 is a reprise of the 2004 edition, which sold out its entire United States allocation of 5,000 shortly after its market debut.

The new edition, limited to a quantity of 5,000, is expected to appeal to previous and current R32 enthusiasts, owners of the sporty GTI who are looking for “something more” and to the larger automotive enthusiast community. To satisfy those customers with the strongest R32 ownership aspirations, Volkswagen has established an order reservation process. Current GTI and R32 owners will be notified of the opening of an R32 micro-site on www.vw.com, concurrent with today’s introduction. An R32 prospect will complete a purchase interest form, thereby generating an R32 Certificate. The first 850 people who present an R32 Certificate along with a deposit to an authorized Volkswagen dealer, will be able to secure one of the first R32 vehicles to be delivered in August 2007.

The R32 features an exclusive combination of high performance components, such as a narrow-angle 3.2L V6 producing 250 horsepower mated to a six speed dual clutch DSG transmission, with steering wheel mounted shift controls. It features a full compliment of comfort, convenience and performance features, as well as unique R32 interior and exterior design cues.

Text and Photo's courtesy of VWOA, source from VWVortex.com

 

[PanterroR]

Thanks, Deutsch!

My fav VW of all time!

 

[Deutsch]

Same. I love this car!!! Probably in my top five for sure (along w/ the GTI), just too bad I can't afford one right now. I'm sure we'll get future R Golfs in the future, so all is not lost.

 

[PanterroR]

Maaybe a stupid question; was the R32 available in US before? Both current and previous generations...

EDIT: Nevermind, i've found out...

 

[siko]

Maaybe a stupid question; was the R32 available in US before? Both current and previous generations...

EDIT: Nevermind, i've found out...

Mk.IV R32 was available in the US (not Canada though).


I hope we'll get the R32 this time around.

 

[PanterroR]

Mk.IV R32 was available in the US (not Canada though).


I hope we'll get the R32 this time around.

Sorry for bringing you the bad news, Martin...

[FONT=arial, helvetica] February 8, 2007 [/FONT]
[FONT=arial, helvetica] VW R32 not coming to Canada
[/FONT]

[FONT=arial, helvetica] [/FONT]
Chicago, Illinois - Volkswagen unveiled its sporty new R32 performance hatch at the Chicago Auto Show, but sources tell CanadianDriver that it won't be available in Canada. The R32 is a reprise of the 2004 edition, which sold out its entire United States allocation of 5,000 shortly after its market debut at that time.


The new edition, limited to a quantity of 5,000, is expected to appeal to previous and current R32 enthusiasts, owners of the sporty GTI who are looking for something more, and to the larger automotive enthusiast community, says the company.


Volkswagen has established an order reservation process. Current GTI and R32 owners will be notified of the opening of an R32 micro-site on www.vw.com. An R32 prospect will be referred to a Volkswagen dealer. The first 832 people who place a deposit with an authorized Volkswagen dealer, will be eligible to secure one of the first R32 vehicles to be delivered in August 2007.


The R32 features a narrow-angle 3.2-litre V6 producing 250 horsepower mated to a six-speed dual clutch DSG transmission, with steering wheel mounted shift controls. It features many comfort, convenience and performance features, as well as unique R32 interior and exterior design cues.



CanadianDriver.com

 

[Mr. M]

I don't get it. What's so hard for VW to sell this in Canada?

I had a ride in this car... Awesome stuff. Its acceleration feels meaty and strong, quite a different from the GTI I must say.

Nice rims, too. Are those exclusively US-spec only? They look a lot like Phaeton Omanyt rims:

 

[PanterroR]

GTI is nothing compared to R32... Those two cars, like they aren't from the same company. Mainly because of the sad fact that GTI is a FWD...

I don't get it too, James... Can be sold in US and not in Canada...

WHY?

And those rims look like the ones i got on my Golf 2.0 TDI...

 

[Mr. M]

GTI is nothing compared to R32... Those two cars, like they aren't from the same company. Mainly because of the sad fact that GTI is a FWD...

I don't get it too, James... Can be sold in US and not in Canada...

WHY?

And those rims look like the ones i got on my Golf 2.0 TDI...

Actually a lot of people will take the GTI over the R32 because it 'handles better' due to weight savings and weight distribution. It's a valid point, but I like both cars to death. I wouldn't mind either.

Yes, it does look a little similar, but the spokes on the Omanyt rims are designed differently and it's a huge rim: 19".

 

[PanterroR]

Actually a lot of people will take the GTI over the R32 because it 'handles better' due to weight savings and weight distribution. It's a valid point, but I like both cars to death. I wouldn't mind either.

I'm not one of those...

Yes, it does look a little similar, but the spokes on the Omanyt rims are designed differently and it's a huge rim: 19".

Right! And mine are 8 spoke 16" and those are 10 spoke 19"...

 

[siko]

I don't get it. What's so hard for VW to sell this in Canada?

You don't want to know the answer... bumpers. Yes bumpers.

Canada has different regulations concerning bumpers/turning lights/reflectors than the US. Considering we’re only 30+ million people, some manufacturers don’t see the point to make certain niche model compliant for such small market. And by some manufacturers I mean VAG. That’s why we didn’t have early Audi RS models (now they bother so I don’t complain anymore). Other intelligent manufacturers typically make dual compliant bumper/lights.

 

[siko]

R32 microsite...

http://www.5000r32.com/

 

[NarutoRamen]

I loved the old R32 this one just isn't agressive enough and those wheels are just blaah. I like the performance but not the looks.

 

[siko]

Quick question: was the Mk.IV R32 equipped with a rear-bias AWD ? (too lazy to check)

For that matter, are all 4motion systems rear-bias? (again too lazy to check)

 

[Deutsch]

It's kind of irritating that they're making this such a limited car. It's going to be the same exact scenario w/ the MKIV where every single car gets snapped up and not a one will be had for sometime second hand. If VW wants to step up it's image they need to make this car a permanent fixture in the U.S. Rabbit/Golf lineup, they can't expect to do much more than they did the first time round the second time. The R32 should be a national VW landmark, since it really has what it takes to be all things to all people and then some the way the EVO and STI have been for so many. Even if it is just a "hatchback", small is in stateside and VW needs to go for the ride.

 

[Mr. M]

You don't want to know the answer... bumpers. Yes bumpers.

Canada has different regulations concerning bumpers/turning lights/reflectors than the US. Considering we’re only 30+ million people, some manufacturers don’t see the point to make certain niche model compliant for such small market. And by some manufacturers I mean VAG. That’s why we didn’t have early Audi RS models (now they bother so I don’t complain anymore). Other intelligent manufacturers typically make dual compliant bumper/lights.

Such a pity Martin... All of the special regulations in the US and Canada are driving me mad. Why can't they just be like the rest of the world?!

I loved the old R32 this one just isn't agressive enough and those wheels are just blaah. I like the performance but not the looks.

I was actually pretty peeved VW didn't do much to the engine. Correct me if I'm wrong, but the MkV R32 has the same output as the MkIV R32. But of course with the new chassis the car shines... Still, I'd have appreciated to see more power.

One thing though, I just love the looks of this new R32. Especially the twin central pipes at the back and the smoked tail lamps...

Quick question: was the Mk.IV R32 equipped with a rear-bias AWD ? (too lazy to check)

For that matter, are all 4motion systems rear-bias? (again too lazy to check)

I'm not too sure Martin, but I believe the 4MOTION system as a 50:50 split.

It's kind of irritating that they're making this such a limited car. It's going to be the same exact scenario w/ the MKIV where every single car gets snapped up and not a one will be had for sometime second hand. If VW wants to step up it's image they need to make this car a permanent fixture in the U.S. Rabbit/Golf lineup, they can't expect to do much more than they did the first time round the second time. The R32 should be a national VW landmark, since it really has what it takes to be all things to all people and then some the way the EVO and STI have been for so many. Even if it is just a "hatchback", small is in stateside and VW needs to go for the ride.

I agree, I wanna see this car being available for every potential buyer.

 

[siko]

I'm not too sure Martin, but I believe the 4MOTION system as a 50:50 split.

That what I always thought too... but this R32 has 75% to the rear as article states. Just curious to know if its always been like that?!