First Drive2006 Volkswagen Golf R32The Return Of The Gentleman's GTIAfter production ceased on Volkswagen's riveting Mk IV R32 in 2004, many wondered if the hot hatch would resurface with the next platform. Considering the Golf V's superior handling characteristics, it would be quite the machine. For Europe, the wait is over and Mk V R32s are already spanking the roadways. It's a different story here, as Stateside fans will have to play a game of wait-and-see. Some speculations alluded to skipping the 3.2-liter altogether in favor of an R36 model powered by the 280-bhp, 3.6-liter V6 currently housed in the Passat, but this does not seem likely, at least not anytime soon.
Meanwhile, we jumped at the chance to drive the new R32 in the outskirts of East Berlin and instantly fell in love. Because of rain and patchy snow that fell prior to our arrival our test mules were fitted with winter tires, but that didn't stop us from pushing the limits on the tighter sections or on a brand-new section of autobahn. The tires and wet surfaces kept us from testing the car's claimed 155-mph top speed, but we did come safely within range.
This is a much more refined R32, outshining its predecessor in every respect. No longer do you have to invest a grand or so just to get the suspension up to snuff. The Mk V's MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension is simply brilliant. While slightly larger and a tad heavier, the car dances circles around its former self. And thanks to better airflow, the equally superb narrow-angle VR6 gets 10 extra horses, now providing an impressive 250 bhp.
As standard, power is transferred to all four wheels via a manual six-speed tranny. Our test model was equipped with the optional DSG (direct shift gearbox) with paddles. As we stated on many prior occasions, it's hard to imagine a better-engineered package. Upshifts are quick and effortless, as are rev-matched downshifts. The option has proven popular with the R32, as well as with the GTI and Jetta GLI, accounting for more than half of sales. The 4Motion system and its latest generation Haldex was invaluable along our drive route, of which portions were wet, covered in snow and ice or all three. The setup works in perfect harmony with traction control and anti-lock braking, as well as with the car's other driver assist programs.
Never once did I worry about losing traction around serpentine corners at speeds higher than most would feel comfortable. Our baggage stowed in the rear inevitably took the brunt. The tighter suspension is a bit bumpy and jostled by even the smallest road inaccuracies, but this is the price many are willing to pay for track-worthy performance straight out of the box. Just bear in mind that as comfortable as its sport seats are (and they are quite nice), long drives may leave you with a sore backside. If we get the car in America, chances are it will sit nearly an inch taller and will ride slightly softer. Can't get around U.S. safety standards. Somehow this doesn't stop BMW, whose M cars manage to maintain an ideal ride height with a perfect tire and fender gap.
The rest of the running gear consists of 18-inch alloy wheels and high-performance 225/40-series tires. Gut-wrenching braking power is sure to bring the car back to legal speed via large vented discs. As a distinguishing feature, the calipers are painted blue as opposed to the red units found on the GTI. Aside from the obvious R32 badges, additional features that help set the car apart from other Golf derivatives include a unique grille with two tandem bars in the upper section and an additional large intake at each bottom side. The lower third of the bumper is also wonderfully color-coordinated with the exterior. The dead giveaway, however, are the center-mounted twin stainless-steel exhaust pipes protruding from the rear diffuser like giant pea shooters.
If the GTI 2.0T is the affordable performance hatch, the better performing, premium priced R32 with its plush standard amenities and limited production status make it the quintessential alternative, the gentleman's GTI. Bragging rights begin at 32,200 euro.