2008 Volkswagen R32 Review
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Volkswagen R32 is a GTI after a few trips to the gym. It’s more powerful, has more features, and is…heavier, which essentially sums up R32’s downfall: its heavy curb weight- which makes tight cornering a challenge compared to its sporty sibling. While having all the optional features of the GTI in one convenient package is nice, you’d probably be better off going for the GTI and choosing the features you want.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the Rabbit 3 stars for overall dependability. Problems with the last generation included stuck clutches, engine noise, rough idling, hard starting, and cornering noise. It was recalled three times. Problems with the current generation include smelly air conditioners, separating windows, poor audio quality, and airbag warning light issues. It was recalled once due to incorrectly installed brake light switches. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles and drivers can expect above average reliability.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Rabbit earned 4 stars in government frontal crash tests and 5 stars in side tests. It earned “Good” IIHS scores for the front and side, but “Marginal” for the rear. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, and stability control come standard.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Powerful engine
+ High-quality interior
+ Smooth ride
Cons
– Heavy
– Poor turning
– Disappointing steering
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Audi A5 Coupe costs several thousand more but offers much the same. The Chrysler Crossfire Limited Coupe includes traction control, but costs a couple grand more, lacks AWD, a CD changer, moonroof, and has 35 less hp. The Honda Accord Coupe costs a couple grand less, includes traction control, and gets up to five more miles to the gallon. However, it lacks AWD and a moonroof.
What Others Are Saying:
“The ride in my R32 was resolutely firm but, as in all good German cars, fluid as well. In other words, it didn’t move much over bumps but it did so with class. Likewise, the steering was sensitive and light with no hint of heaviness from the car’s humble front-wheel-drive origins.” – The Dallas Morning News
“The trouble with the DSG is that it leaves the R32 pilot with not a lot to do. The car corners as hard as it corners and no harder. It stops as well as it will — I do love the blue brake calipers, though. All in all, I’d rather have the turbo’d, front-drive GTI with the stick shift and save a few thousand dollars.” – The L.A. Times
“Despite talk of a 300-horse R36, the new R32 is what we got- two years after its Eurozone debut. No question: the new R32 arrived D.O.A. Its killer? The Golf GTI Mk V- which is a better driver’s car, for a lot less money.” – The Truth About Cars
Read more about the 2008 Volkswagen R32 at the Volkswagen manufacturer web site.
