Volkswagen Group Malaysia (VGM) held a product briefing for members of the press to introduce the newest and fastest version of the Golf R32 which was first unveiled at the 59th Frankfurt Motorshow in September 2005.

Images by: Weider Low

Speaking at the briefing, Ms Karen Cheng-Yoong, Director of PR & Marketing Communications said: “The introduction of the “R” series to Malaysian consumers is timely as it allows Volkswagen customers and car enthusiasts the opportunity to enjoy the mastery of power that is behind the “R” series, beginning with the Golf R32 “.

The Golf R32 powered by a 240 PS engine was first launched in August 2002. Not only was it one of the hottest cars on the road, it also sold like hot cakes: three times as many Golf R32's were sold than originally planned. These are excellent prospects for its successor.

Now comes a new Golf R32 based on the Golf V generation. This time it packs 250 PS under the hood; the permanent 4MOTION four-wheel drive promises excellent road-holding.

From the outside, the best Golf ever is not only recognizable by the ‘R32’ logo. The Golf R32 has a top speed of 248kmh and a 6-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG). Equipped with the DSG the "R32" is even faster: 6.2 seconds from 0-100 kmh.

From the front, the new Golf R32 generation is immediately recognizable by its unique aluminum-effect shield-shaped radiator grille. At the top of the grille are double aluminum cross struts. Under the number plate there is another central air scoop for the powerful 3.2-litre V6 engine.

Two more large openings on each side of the shield-shaped radiator grille are intended for fresh air supply. As opposed to all other Golfs, there are air ducts at the bottom and on either side of the fully painted front bumper. The lines of the air duct continue into the side skirt all the way along to the rear bumper.

The rear of the Golf R32 is also designed as a fully painted bumper. Only the middle section in the shape of a diffuser is in black. The two round tailpipes made of polished stainless steel are placed centrally next to each other and are integrated prominently in the rear bumper. A glance at the outline of the Golf R32 shows the 18-inch “Omanyt” allow wheels.

The sporty concept of the Golf R32 is a theme that permeates the entire vehicle. There are distinctive instruments, sports seats, pedals in aluminum look and special applications that emphasize the sporty nature of the Golf. The sports steering wheel, with perforated leather along the grip area, and the Golf R32 gear shift knob lie firmly in the hand.

The Golf R32 boasts a dazzling array of standard equipment such as 2 zone automatic air conditioning (Climatronic), the RCD 500 “Volkswagen Sound” system with analog 8-channel amplifier (250 watt total output) and 10 loudspeakers, multifunction display, rain sensor, tire pressure monitor, bi-xenon headlights for low and high beam, electronic stabilisation programme (ESP) including driver steering recommendation, comfort brake assistant, anti-locking brake system (ABS), electronic differential lock (EDL) to ensure optimal traction on every ground surface and traction control system.

The Golf R32 was awarded 5 out of 5 stars in Euro NCAP frontal, side, and pole crash tests and is equipped with driver and front passenger airbags with front passenger airbag deactivation; curtain airbags for front and rear occupants and side airbags for front occupants.