2008 Volkswagen R32 Review - Final Verdict Part 2 w/Pics

21st August 2007

2008 Volkswagen R32 Review - Final Verdict Part 2 w/Pics

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2008 Final Verdict Part 1

Most of my dissatisfaction with the 2008 VW R32 derives from the fact that I was spoiled rotten by the 2004 version. With the 2004 model, VW had done what was in my mind the impossible. They had managed to find the perfect balance between sophistication, performance and sporty style with a healthy shot of testosterone thrown in, and all for a price that was a mere steal when you consider what you would normally have to pay to get such a perfectly blended mix of attributes. So, when it was announced that 2008 would see a follow-up to the 2004 R32 I was thrilled, and for lots of reasons. Sadly, as more and more facts surrounding the 2008 model leaked out I became increasingly concerned.

Well, the 2008 R32 has now arrived, and while I am clearly unhappy with some of the choices that were made in the development of the 2008 Volkswagen R32, make no mistake about it: the 20008 Volkswagen R32 is, simply put, an incredible car on it’s own merits.

Had I never owned the 2004 version, this would be a car I would have to own. In other words, if the 2008 R32 were my first exposure to the R32 concept, I would be ecstatic. I would have to have this car. Period. So it is in light of that realization that I studied this machine. In the end, I simply had to make the mental break. I had to let go of the 2004 R32 experience in order to evaluate its new sibling on its own merits. This is no small task mind you, but I needed to do it if I was going to be able to judge the 2008 model fairly. Here is what I can tell you.

Out with the old/In with the new. But is new better?

Volkswagen got rid of the 2004 R32 accouterments in order to make room for a stiffer, much more sophisticated and hence more expensive suspension kit. The 6-speed manual transmission was replaced with a dual-clutch DSG transmission. Again, this is much more expensive. From a technical standpoint we are getting into the realm of rocket science here. Such is the technical complexity of the DSG transmission, and even though most enthusiasts will probably prefer manual to DSG, I have to call a spade a spade. The DSG is hands down faster and technically superior to manual. Does that make it better? I am not sure. Are power windows “better” than the ones that crank manually? Power windows cost more to fix when they break. When a car has no power, you can’t open or close power windows. Understand where I am headed? Technical wizardry has it’s advantages, but it’s a sword that cuts both ways.

The headlights of the 2004 R32 were replaced with Bi-Xenon assemblies in the 2008 model. This makes driving the 2008 R32 much safer at night. Then again, we are talking lot’s more money here, aren’t we?

Finally, the 2008 R32 comes with a navigation head unit as an option. More “sophistication” = more money. Are you starting to get the picture here? I am.

The 2008 R32, with all of the above enhancements, when coupled with all of the 2004 R32 amenities might well exceed the 40K dollar mark. I am not absolutely certain of this mind you, but I suspect it is the case.

The 2004 R32 cost around 33K dollars. If VW was going to keep the price point of the 2008 VW R32 in the same ballpark as its predecessor, then VW was going to have to find a way to cut costs. So, out went the painted coil-overs. Out went the Indiglo dash. Out with the Koenig seats, etc.

Again, I am offering this merely as a theory. In the end, if VW wanted to appeal to an older, more sophisticated clientele, why not just go ahead and charge 40K for the car instead of stripping it of it’s personality in order to save a buck? It makes no sense to me. That said, the 2008 R32 looks like a superb car in all manner and respects, albeit a tad on the mundane side.

A picture says a thousand words

The rear suspension of the 2008 model is independent. This adds a huge advantage to handling and this alone pushes the 2008 model a few steps above the 2004 version. Even yours truly, a rabid 2004 R32 loyalist, can admit that.

The front and rear suspension of the car is based (yawn) on the GTI platform. However, to the cars credit, the 2008 R32 suspension kit has thicker, stouter springs front and back, and the front setup is encased in a housing that must be seen to be believed. I cannot begin to describe it, and the lighting would not permit me to photograph it. So, you will just have to take my word for it when I tell you that the suspension of the 2008 R32 leaves little room for improvement. True, it has its roots in the GTI, but it’s more aggressive. The salesman tells me it doesn’t get any tighter than this, and I believe him.

Can you see the blue brake calipers up front? I really enjoy those. However, they would set the car off even more if the wheels had fewer spokes and opened up the interior of the wheel assembly more. More photos are really needed here, but I was pressed for time. I didn’t get all the shots I wanted. More to come.

As you can see, VW kept the blue brake calipers wrapped around those mammoth discs fore and aft (more pics soon). The car comes a tad bit wider than the 2004 iteration and I am told that it is 4 inches lower out of the box than it’s predecessor (I was surprised by this, because it did not look that much lower).

All of this, coupled with the better suspension and already historic braking, makes for a much tighter driving experience according to everyone I have spoken to who has driven the car. If this is true, I can actually begin to appreciate the vision VW had for the 2008 model. Can you appreciate having an R32 you did not feel a impulse to modify because it was already tight as a ticks ear? I can.

The sepia photo of the seats is a nice shot. The photo is more flattering than the actual seats are, but I suppose the seats will get the job done. They are fairly comfortable, albeit a tad on the passive side.

The seats of the new R32 are…well…adequate. I suppose they are aggressive enough, and thankfully the ride height of the seats can be adjusted, but they cannot compare to the Koenigs in my view. That said, if these seats were necessary to make room for the suspension then I guess this was a more than acceptable trade-off. The 2008 R32 seats are comfortable enough and I imagine they will get you through the twists of the Blue Ridge Mountains just fine. Now, The Tail of the Dragon is another story altogether.

The 2008 R32 dashboard is not exactly boring, but it is rather nondescript. In fact, from this vantage point I could not distinguish the R32 dashboard from the GTI dashboard. I am not saying it is unpleasing to the eye, just not very “R32-ish”. On a positive note, I did like the faux carbon fiber trim. Thankfully, there’s not too much of it and although I think I would like it more if it were real carbon fiber, it’s a nice touch.

The 2008 R32 dashboard array is, well it’s a GTI dashboard array more or less, that’s what it is. I will miss my 2004 display very much, but having a GPS navigation unit to play with will more than compensate me for my pain and suffering I guess. The model I saw today did not have a navigation unit, but it can be had for a few extra bucks. Eighteen hundred of ‘em, to be exact, or so I am told.

A GTI steering wheel? In an R32? Yup. It looks odd. It feels odd. It’s just odd. The more I held it, the stranger it felt, but I suspect I would grow accustomed to it in a matter of days. I think what throws me off is the center (horn/airbag) portion. The 2004 R-Line steering wheel felt and looked great. It was thick, rounded, and flowed with the interior. This steering wheel is flat, abrupt, oddly shaped and it just does not flow with the interior of the car. I know, I know, “it’s just a steering wheel”. True, but it’s mere inches from your face. An R-32 steering wheel shouldn’t be just any old steering wheel. Besides, why would VWoG go to so much trouble designing the 2004 R-Line version with so much flair if style didn’t matter? I continue to scratch my head on things like this.

The steering wheel of the 2008 model is the oddest looking thing I have ever seen and is straight out of the GTI. Boring! I really do not like how it feels in my hands. At first I did, but the more I griped it the stranger it felt. In terms of the gauges, you can see them. What else can I tell you. They’re there. I just keep reminding myself that this was a necessary downgrade in order to afford all that new sophisticated crap.

This body style is taking me some time to warm up to. It’s growing on me, but very slowly. Still, all I can say is “Wow”! Just look at that blue!!!! Doncha just love it. I’ll tell you this much - while I do have numerous issues with this car, I am increasingly of the opinion that it more than makes up for its weaknesses with it’s strengths. What’s great about this car outweighs whatever is wrong with it, and what is wrong with it is predominantly cosmetic. If you can live with the styling issues, then you will love the car. If you like the style, then you will adore it.

The exterior of the car is a mixed blend of confused splendor. The MV chassis that VW has gone to takes some getting use to. I preferred the lines of the MIV chassis, but the MV is so much stiffer. This reduces squeaks and rattles and improves overall handling. Granted, it is ugly, but it is so functional that I have to say yes to it. Besides, the Xenon’s really improve the overall look and feel of the exterior of the 2008 model. As I said, the MV takes some getting use to.

The Bi-Xenon headlights were a huge upgrade from the 2004 headlights. I love these Xenon’s as they offer so much more luminosity at night. In addition, Xenon’s look great and are like Faberge Christmas ornaments on this car. Very nice!

While we are talking headlights, let me say this. I have always felt that the lighting of the 2004 R32 was it’s only Achilles Heel. Driving the 2004 R32 at night was not the best experience in the world for me, unless I wanted to stare at the luscious Indiglo Dash, that is. But in terms of safety, I always felt like the headlights could have been better. VW has remedied this problem with a very nice set of Bi-Xenon lamps this go round. I think everyone will love them. I am really glad VW went this direction.

This is the same shot as above, but reproduced here for your convenience. You can see the new version of the dual exhausts in this shot. Me no like. How bout you?

VW ditched the cool dual exhausts of the 2004 model for these Mini-Cooper sissy exhausts that are about two inches apart. Why they did this is a mystery to me. If VW was trying to create a car that owners would not want to modify, they sure blew it with this half-baked idea. That sucking sound I hear must be the liquid vortex being generated by dwindling bank accounts as hundreds of 2008 R32 owners run en mass to their nearest after-market store to fork over another $3500.00 for custom lower fascia wraps and stainless steel exhausts. I do not think the new exhausts will be a favorite with R32 lovers.

The 2008 R32 did manage to keep some of the features of the 2004 model. Heated seats, Climatronic environmental control, heated windows and mirrors (I think), a superb sound system, cruise control, electronic stabilization, automatic daytime/nighttime rear view mirror etc. all made it into the 2008 model.

That color alone makes me want to buy the car. It really does.

VW also kept that luscious shade of blue for the exterior. That really put a smile on my face. The photos of the exterior really do show the car it its best light. That blue is to die for.

All in all, the 2008 R32 might leave some folks feeling cold. I can honestly tell you that I do not feel the same level of excitement for this 2008 model as I did for the 2004. I do not look at the 2008 R32 and feel an overwhelming compulsion to have it. Only the 2004 version could generate that kind of lust. Still, the 2008 R32 appears to be a superbly built car. Since the car I saw in the showroom could not be driven, I will have to leave the driving experience up to you, the reader.

My guess is that the 2008 VW R32 is easily worth 2X it’s already reasonable price tag. The car seems rock solid inside and out. I suspect that I would enjoy owning the 2008 model very much and I believe I will pic one up in a month or so, finances permitting of course. One thing is for certain. The 2008 R32 will never beg me to drive it in the same way that the 2004 R32 did every single time I got behind the wheel. It just lacks the aggressive feel. Take that for what it is worth.

God Bless.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, August 21st, 2007 at 5:42 pm and is filed under All Posts With Images, Volkswagen Stuff. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

1 On September 3rd, 2007, Chase said:

You know, I agree that the MKV R32 is not as unique as the MKIV R32. However, I think that is because the MKV GTI is so unique compared to the Rabbit. — Also, I’d argue that the MKV GTI is a sports car where the MKIV GTI is a sporty car. Those facts leave much for the MKIV R32 to improve upon and less for the MKV to.

I upgraded from an MKIV Golf to an MKV GTI recently. The driving dynamics are enormously better. I’d expect that after you drive the new R32, you will find it much more enjoyable to drive than the previous one. Its really that much better. I am still lukewarm about aspects of its styling, but I’ve warmed up considerably to it. Unlike you, I completely love the interior, and I think the seats are especially amazing.

2 On September 3rd, 2007, webmaster said:

First I want to thank you for your comments.

Second, this is a very interesting comment and I like it. However, I would like to respond by saying this: Whereas I would agree with you that the MV GTI is a good 2 steps up from the MIV GTI in terms of power and performance, I would have to say that the reverse is true for the the MV 2008 R32.

I would argue that the MIV R32 was a pure sports car, whereas the new R32 is not. In fact, most articles and comments on the 2008 R32 suggest that the car is a Grand Touring version of the 2004 R32. I agree with that assessment. Whether or not that is a a good thing is open for another debate on another day. That said, therein lies my inner conflict.

I have been accused of being a “fanboy” of the 2004 R32 and I stand guilty of that accusation. I am a fanboy of that car. It was mean, had an edge to it and oozed copious amounts of testosterone, not unlike myself. The 2008 R32 is, as they say, “more refined”, elegant etc. I am not sure this is a good thing unless it puts distance between VW and the juvenile delinquent crowd that unfortunately seems to have glommed on to the 2004 R32. In that case, I guess I would have to say that the changes to the 2008 R32 are a good thing.

3 On March 23rd, 2008, Bill said:

Thank you to those of you who have made a contribution to this discussion. I found it most informative, but as I have never owned a VW R32 before I am unable to make a contribution re: the 2004 verse the 2008 model.
I have recently ordered a 2008 VW R32 and have yet to take delivery of it. I expect it in late May, early June 2008 (Australia) and cannot wait to get behind the wheel.
I purchased the R32 on the basis of it NOT being a boy racer car, such as the WRX or Evo, but as a very capable and refined tourer with a little something to spare in the performance stakes.
I am 57 years of age so perhaps my focus has been on the refined engineering and creature comforts that this vehicle has to offer.
I guess one other comment I would like to make is that I have read a number of glowing reports in various motor magazines, both of the local and international variety, so I feel vindicated in my decision.
All I think that’s left to say is let us all enjoy our driving and our cars and not get too bogged down with the intellectual discussion of the new verses the old. Let us enjoy what we have got.

4 On March 24th, 2008, webmaster said:

I love your comment. Thank you.

I suppose I will wait for the 2009 model (assuming the USA sees one). Or not. LOL

I am still intrigued by the 2008 on some levels, like the ones you suggested here. But if the 2009 model (or 2010 model? ) has a more powerful engine, and more aggressive seats, I would be inclined to purchase that over the 2008 model. That said, in America I would be we could get some awesome deals on some 2008’s because I see lots of them still on the lots.

Cheers!

5 On April 4th, 2008, Mike said:

Great comments and opinions. I’ld love to give you my feedback too. This is my 5th VW so I obviosly have a soft spot for “The Peoples’ Car”. 84 GTI, 85 GTI, 2000 Jetta(for the Wife, 2001 GTI VR6 & finally 2008 R32.

I am coming out of a 2004 Mazda RX-8,so if we are talking TRUE sports cars I will have to say the R32 is no comparison on the fun to drive factor with the RX-8 but that is where my negative opinion stops.

R32 is very, very quick 0-60, would eat up that RX-8 anyday. The manumatic takes alot of getting used to but once you do you realize that you’ll never lose a street race ’cause you missed a shift. YES you do lose that feeling of ultimate control but the way this thing shifts is well worth the sacifice.

I picked the car up at the end of Feb. and it sat in the garage for all of March, except sunny days, while I ran the lease out on the Mazda. So I’ve only been driving it for about a month. It took 3 months to learn how to drive the RX-8 to the limit and expect that in another month or so I will be able to define the limitation a bit better.

I am disappointed with the styling, it could be a lot sharper looking with very little effort but I think VW wanted to have a different market tahn the boy racers in the EVos & STIs so they kept it pretty plain.

Brakes are awesome and handling seems pretty good but I am sit getting used to the body roll and how much traction the Dunlops are laying down. You can have controlled slide corners but you are right at the cars limits and I’m noit ready to scuff any paint off it yet.

Compared to my VR6 this thing is a monster. Comparing it to the RX-8 is very difficult beecause they are two different animal. RX8, slam the throttle and keep it down and slide through everything. With the R32, NOTHING gives, no smoke show, no 180/360s bout it stick to everything and that inspires a lot of confidence.

Sorry I can’t compare to 04 R32, just never drove one.

6 On April 5th, 2008, webmaster said:

Mike, great comment. That is just what I needed to hear! I am still looking at a Blue 2008 myself. Just have not made that leap yet. Enjoy your new toy!

7 On April 22nd, 2008, Wolf said:

Did you even drive this car? I ask because I now own it and everything you say you didnt like, I like. The seats are awesome, the steering wheel is awesome. The nav system you like so much? Sucks. The exhaust on the 08 R32? Works.
I was driving arund the other day knowing that I got a lot more for my money then the BMW or Audi TT I was thinking of buying. All said this may the best deal on the planet right now.

8 On April 22nd, 2008, webmaster said:

Wolf, I could not be happier for you! I mean that.

Truth is, if I can get back into an R32 I would buy the 2008. I honestly would.

Yes, I am disappointed with a lot of the changes, but the more I have thought about it the more I am leaning toward putting another Blue R32 under my rear end and experiencing something new and exciting! I know my reviews discuss a lot of my dissatisfaction, but the truth is I am just not one to make changes easily. I get set in my ways and find a place where I am comfortable and before you know it I feel right at home. This is not always a bad character trait. In fact, I think a little of that is necessary in life just in terms of being able to make commitments. But in the case of the R32, I can see that my rigid ways might be counter-productive Thanks for your comments.

9 On September 22nd, 2008, alastair said:

Hello. I almost bought the 04 R32 a couple of times. Each time I passed it up I bought an audi TT 225 and then a saab 92x. When I first drove an 08 32 I was underwhelmed, mostly by the DSG. Recently I began car shopping again, so I revisited the 08 R32. I loved it! Sharp turn in, smooth power and a gorgeous soundtrack. Not forgetting the grown up interior. For contrast I drove a used 2004 R32. The 04 felt cramped and somewhat agricultural by comparison. I guess my tastes have matured the way VW marketing types hoped they would. I am looking for a grey 08 without navigation as I type.

10 On September 22nd, 2008, webmaster said:

Congrats!

If I was able to get into a Blue 08 R32, I would do it. The opportunity just passed me by. Such is life. Let us know how you like your new R:.

11 On November 14th, 2008, Jimbo said:

Hi there. I’m buying a second-hand 2008 R32… a BLUE one. I can’t wait to pick it up.

I’m upgrading from an ‘02 GTI 1.8T, so we’ll see how that DSG works for me in a daily driver. I’m a shift-it-myself kind of driver, so at least I’ll have paddles.

I understand what you mean about the ‘04 R32’s “edge.” The ‘08 certainly acts more like a GT than a rocket, but hey, if you want adrenaline and white knuckles, the STI and Evo are out there.

Anyhoo, I’ll drop another comment once I put a few miles on my shiny new toy.

12 On November 16th, 2008, webmaster said:

Jimbo congratulations!! I am so jealous.

Every day that goes by and I have to get into my Volvo, I cringe. You will love your R32!!!! Hands down the most fun I have ever had driving anywhere, anytime.

Many blessings!

13 On December 11th, 2008, Veeg said:

I just like to say that I am one proud happy owner of the 2008 R32. at first i have to admit that i had to grow to like the car more. I was in a hurry to buy a new car because my previous DC2 Type R was stolen.

but after owning it for the past 5 months, ive come to realise that this car is amazing. It has horsepower, its luxurious (well compared to my DC2, its practical, the exhaust sound i have to say its quite nice imo. im really happy with it and cannot recommend a better car on the current market.

However, in saying that that it has horsepower, its great it can get from 0-100 in 6.5sec (im in aust and i didnt pick the dsg option but the 6-speed manual which is slower), but i do feel the car is lacking some horsepower for its class. If it was to compete on the same level as the sti and evo and become a standout, i really think another 30hp (22kw) would be great. Im looking at trying to get this extra hp atm thru ECU upgrade and airbox….nothing too intrusive. But i am not sure about spending AUD$2500 on this upgrade.

but the car is awesome…..ive never really like VW before (sorry) and I am an avid Honda fan, but i have to say this R32 is awesome. Especially if i am going to keep this car for a while and if I was to get married/have kids in the next 5 years, at least i know the car will be practical enuf to handle that, but also have enuf balls for me to have fun on the weekend.

14 On December 11th, 2008, webmaster said:

Congratulation! I am very happy for you! You have one of the finer cars on the road and if I could buy one I have to confess I would do it. So, keep us posted. Drive safe!

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