VW slashes price of top Golf

Volkswagen has announced super-competitive pricing for its new performance flagship. The new Golf V-based R32 hits VW dealers this week with a starting price of $54,990 -- almost $10,000 cheaper than the $63K-plus limited edition R32 it launched locally in 2002.

Back then just 200 of the hot Golfs found their way Down Under. The limited edition three-door-only was rationed and was aimed four-square at serious performance buyers.

This time the R32 hits as a full-production 'halo' model for the Golf line-up. Fitted with a full complement of luxury features, it is available in both three and five-door versions. Not that the 'softening' of the hot VW's image has detracted from its popularity -- according to VW Australia the car has already attracted over 300 pre-orders.

The five-door version of the R32 kicks off at $56,490. Both body styles can be ordered with VW's impressive DSG sequential electronically controlled automated manual transmission. DSG will set you back as extra $2300 on both the three and five-door models.

VW Australia chief Jutta Dierks told CarPoint the R32 represented a new pinnacle for the brand: "The R32 is an addition to our range -- not a limited edition model. We didn't want to put sales limits on the model. Customers can choose the body style they want."

"It represents a new level of performance and sits above GTI and the rest of the Golf range. It's not [just] sporty, not [just] safety, not [just] luxury -- the R package represents all these things," Ms Dierks said.

Dierks also hinted that the hi-po Golf might not be the only R-badged VW to hit Australian roads. When quizzed on the marque's plans for the 'halo' badge, Ms Dierks confirmed that VW was "looking hard" at other Rs.

As far as her wishlist is concerned... "I would like to see an R Passat. This would be great for us in the [performance oriented] Australian market."

In the meantime, the most powerful and fastest series production Golf ever, the R32 is powered by a 184kW 3.2-litre naturally aspirated 15-degree V6 engine. Power is put to the ground via VW's 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system which can transfer up to 75 per cent of available torque to the rear wheels.

VW claims a top speed of 250km/h and a 0-100km/h sprint in just 6.2sec for the DSG-equipped version. The conventional six-speed manual model is 0.3sec slower to 100km/h.

Outside, key features like bespoke 18-inch alloys and a real alloy grille surround set the R32 apart from its GTI stablemate. Inside there's plenty of leather and optional race-style Recaros keep the boy racers happy.

The standard equipment list is impressive (Xenon headlamps, navigation and so on) and a full suite of driver aids and safety equipment including DSC, ABS and front, side and curtain airbags are all featured.

Look out for CarPoint's launch review of the R32 soon.