MK 5 R32 Review

[evad]

Hi, I have just traded an 06 GTI for a new R32, and have to agree with the comments above, yes performance is very similar to the GTI, but, when it rains I honestly don't think the GTI would see where the the R32 had gone, I drove my R32 over 80kms of challenging (2nd and 3rd gear hairpins, 4th gear sweepers) wet mountain roads yesterday, and it was a revelation, comfortable, composed and balanced, very little understeer, and no traction problems, I had driven my GTI over the same road in similar conditions a few months previously and while it turned in well, as soon as power was applied it slithered and slipped everywhere, (it was still fun though ).

[Creepy Coupe]

Hi Evad, good to hear from someone who's owned both, how does the ride compare between the two in your opinion. I the R32 any firmer?

[evad]

I find the overall ride of the R32 better, and that not just me, my wife and kids find it more comfortable also, sharp potholes and ridges will catch it out now and again but I expect that is down to the 18's, I had 17's on the GTI.

I must say also that while some people (not much on this forum though) deride the performance, the engine really adds soul to the car, I cannot resist driving around with the windows down and the stereo off, even in the rain!

[Creepy Coupe]

I find the overall ride of the R32 better, and that not just me, my wife and kids find it more comfortable also, sharp potholes and ridges will catch it out now and again but I expect that is down to the 18's, I had 17's on the GTI.

I must say also that while some people (not much on this forum though) deride the performance, the engine really adds soul to the car, I cannot resist driving around with the windows down and the stereo off, even in the rain!

That's pleasing to hear, know what you mean about the sound, I think the saleman was getting a bit cold on the test drive, as I had the window open for most of it.

[Phil mcavity]

i fully agree, the sound of the v6 is awsome, im keeping away as much as poss from testing one cus i know i would be hooked aswell.As for spotting an r32 on the road, that is a rare site, exclusivity is such a buzz mate, i envy you big stylie

[Creepy Coupe]

i fully agree, the sound of the v6 is awsome, im keeping away as much as poss from testing one cus i know i would be hooked aswell.As for spotting an r32 on the road, that is a rare site, exclusivity is such a buzz mate, i envy you big stylie

The GTi is going to be a hard act to follow, I never really felt too much emotion when changing my cars in the past, but when a particular car has always made you smile, every time you drive it.
I suppose if I don't like the R32, I could always trade it for another GTi in a years time and not have to pay, towards a change over.

[ST225]

Went for a test drive last week in Guildford. Had seen 3 prior to this, 2 in DBP and 1 in black. IMO the black looked too bland and subdued but the DBP looked really good. The one I test drove was a 3 door DBP DSG. I parked my GTI next to it and thought the R32 looked so much better, anyone who has any reservations about the looks and especially the front should see it in the flesh before they make their minds up. The only thing I am not 100% sure about is the exhausts, they don't look bad, I just think they could look better but this was the only part I was slightly unsure about looks wise and everything else compensated for this more than enough to not put me off.

The interior of the demo had recaros with full leather. The seats were probably the best I have ever sat in, it was not hard to find a comfortable position/setup and they were really hugging. I would definitely reccomend these over the standard seats. The standard seats are the same as the GTI and are also really good but the recaros are so much better. The rest of the interior is very similar to the GTI with the exception of the aluminium effect which is ok ish.ok


The drive itself blew me away. I was out for approx 40 mins on A and B roads including the A3 between Guildford and M25 so equivalent to M/W. The car felt so much quicker than the GTI (I know in reality its very similar in terms of performance, just how it felt), the 4WD obviously made a huge difference, there was no wheelspin when putting foot down etc which is happening loads with the GTI at the moment in this weather. Although there is not loads of torque steer on the GTI it is still noticeable but on the R32 it didnt exist. The handling on sweeping bends, corners and roundabouts etc gave a lot more confidence, it felt more planted and there seemed to be a lot less body roll although the recaros could have contributed to this feeling. The sound of the 3.2 was awesome which just completed the whole package.

Overall my only reservation is the look of the rear tailpipes and this is not a major one at all. It may look slightly chavish but my view on it is that it is standard and people in the know will know it is not modded etc and I reckon someone like Milltek will bring out an option similar to the Mk iv anyway.

To conclude, I am placing an order for a 3 door, DBP, manual, recaros, leather once I find a dealer who has an early allocation.

People are saying that the performance of this car is very similar to the GTI i.e. 0 - 60 and top speed etc which I agree with but that is in ideal conditions and that is where the similarity ends. Anyone who thinks it is a similar car to the GTI is wrong in my opinion, the way it drives and handles is far superior to the GTI. For me to get a similarly specced R32 to my GTI is going to cost me an extra 2k on top of what I paid for the GTI which I do not think is an excessive amount for what you are getting.

Have a deposit on a current demonstartor and collect it on the 22nd Feb and also about to place a factory order which should turn up in about 12 months time.i

[Creepy Coupe]

Just out of interest, why have you pasted a copy of the original MK5 review ST225 ?

[Phil mcavity]

jelous Ford owner creepy???

[Creepy Coupe]

jelous Ford owner creepy???

 ^^^^^ I did wonder