What's Good
The most powerful production Golf to date. Narrow-angle VR6 based 3.2-litre chain cam V6 produces 240 bhp at 6250 rpm fed through a 6 speed gearbox for a 0 to 60 mph time of just 6.3 second, and a top speed of 153 mph. Has 4MOTION intelligent four-wheel drive, lowered suspension, more responsive steering and throttle responses, plus ESP the R32. Its most obvious competitor is the Ford Focus RS.
Distinctive engine note from specially designed exhaust. New front and rear bumpers, side sills, blue brake callipers and imposing 18-inch ‘Aristo’ alloy wheels, while silver ‘R32’ badges on the grille and tailgate.
Inside, aluminium trim, Recaro sports seats with integrated backrests and extensive use of the ‘R’ (or ‘Racing’) logo add further visual distinction.
250 RHD examples available late 2002, and a further 500 in 2003.
Combined economy 24.6mpg; CO2 276g/km. Price: £22,340.
Not as quick nor as alert as an Evo VII or WRX STI, but still goes and handles very well, is very safe and has one of the most wonderful exhaust notes of any car ever built. Quite good value for money compared with the V6 4Motion, and the R32 is a vastly better car.
VWs generally had below average warranty repair costs in 2003 Warranty Direct Reliability index (index 76.83 v/s lowest 31.93). Link:- www.reliabilityindex.co.uk
More at www.volkswagen.co.uk
What's Bad
Limited production of just 750 RHD for UK meant premiums to get one quickly and strong value retention for the first year.
What to Watch Out For
Model specific owner/driver feedback welcome
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