|
Volkswagen's hottest hatchback, the new 2008 R32, makes its highly anticipated U.S. debut this fall. Which means Northwest consumers will be among the first to take it for a "test look" at the Seattle International Auto Show presented by State Farm, Oct. 31-Nov. 4 at Qwest Field Event Center.
The R32's muscle is provided by its namesake, the awesome 3.2 liter naturally aspirated narrow angle VR6 engine, which provides 250 horsepower and 236 ft. lbs. of torque. This unique and potent engine is combined with Volkswagen's gripping 4Motion all-wheel-drive system. Rounding out the drivetrain package is the highly praised Volkswagen dual clutch DSG transmission, which allows for seamless gear changes and helps the R32 to accelerate from 0-60 in 6.4 seconds.
The powerful VR6 engine features a chain-driven, dual-overhead cam, variable valve timing, four valves per cylinder, maintenance free lifters and a compression ratio of 10.85:1.
The R32 rides upon a fully independent multi-link rear suspension that provides both excellent handling and superior comfort. Electromechanical steering provides increased steering precision, while the front strut suspension and anti-roll bar help to increase cornering agility while reducing body roll.
A state-of-the-art Electronic Brake-pressure Distribution automatically varies the amount of force to each of a vehicle's brakes based on road and driving conditions; while brake assist helps to boost the brake pressure in emergency braking situations. Not only are the R32 brakes performance driven, but they also highlight the design aesthetic featuring blue calipers, visible behind the 18-inch alloy, 10-spoke wheels.
Inside, the R32 features race-inspired style – three-spoke leather steering wheel, "engine spin" chrome accents, alloy foot pedals and sports seats with integrated "R" logo. Features such as automatic climate control, ten-speaker premium CD stereo system, rain sensing wipers, automatic dimming interior rear-view mirror, heated front seats, heatable washer nozzles, anti-theft alarm, cruise control and trip computer are standard luxuries that complement this performance-driven champ.
The Seattle International Auto Show, presented by State Farm, and also sponsored by AutoTrader.com, Chevron Lubricants and Associated Petroleum Products runs Oct. 31-Nov. 4, at Qwest Field Event Center. The show will feature hundreds of all-new 2008 model year cars, trucks, crossovers, alternative-fuel, minivans, sport utilities and 4WD vehicles from every major automaker. The event will also present one-of-a-kind concepts and extremely rare exotics and classics. Hours are Wednesday, 12 Noon - 6 p.m.; Thursday - Friday, 12 Noon – 10 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Adult admission is $11. Kids 12 and under are free. Convenient covered parking is available in the exhibition center's parking garage, Safeco Field, Union Station and nearby facilities. Tickets can be purchased online at www.seattleautoshow.com. More info: 206-542-3551.
|