2002 VOLKSWAGEN Golf IV R32 3.2L V6 6MT AWD (241 HP)

Vehicle Overview

In 2002 Volkswagen went wild and introduced an outrageous version of the Golf on the market: the R32.

The R32 shook the hot-hatch segment with its blistering acceleration, all-wheel drive system, and, especially, its dual-clutch automatic gearbox. It was a testing bench for other vehicles that followed. But this model, sold in around 12,000 units, became the Golf with the biggest displacement engine produced by the automaker.

The car’s exterior looked like it had gone through a specialized tuning shop. Its front bumper, with three lower grilles in the apron, showed like it was adapted from an Audi S4. From its sides, the 18″ light alloy wheels with a multi-spoke design complemented the car’s look and filled the wheel arches. In addition, the ground clearance was 20 mm (0.8″) lower, thanks to new springs and shocks. On its sides, the car featured specific side sills, while at the back, Volkswagen installed a dual side-exhaust system and a diffuser between them. A roof spoiler completed the image of this sporty hatchback, which was only available with three doors.

Volkswagen went even further and provided the car with front sports seats that hugged their occupants, while a split-folding bench was fitted in the back. Still, the automaker kept the same instrument cluster, with red needles and black dials. But that was fine. At least it placed aluminum pedals and a footrest for the driver. Last but not least, the car also got a GPS navigation system.

But the real magic was under the hood, where the automaker squeezed a VR6 engine. It was a mix between a V-shaped and an inline-arranged engine, with 15 degrees between the cylinders. The naturally-aspirated powerplant sent its power in all corners via either a six-speed manual or a revolutionary (then) dual-clutch six-speed automatic gearbox.