Mk V Test Drive

[jagseven]

I have now had my test drive in a Siver 5 door, DSG, standard seats with leather.

Engine

The first thing that hit me was how different it felt from the GTI. The R32 engine is superb and makes it feel like a big car. Performance felt strong from low revs and surprisingly close to my XJR - in fact it felt faster than I expected. Whereas the GTI didn't quite give me the shove I was looking for at motorway speeds I have no such problem with the R32. The engine note is fantastic - only really auidible at higher revs.

DSG

I was all set to get a manual having tried a manual and DSG GTI, but the DSG really suits the R32's engine. I have now decided to get DSG (if I was getting the GTI I'd take the manual).

Refinement

The car is generally quiet and refined. The ride is firm but very supple - a really good balance. It seemed to give me most of refinement of my XJR but without the inertia you get with a big car. The standard seats (in leather) were very good - not sure you need the Recaros. Quality was very good and I liked the silver trim.

Handling

I didn't have a very long test drive so not much chance the fling the car around but it felt similar to the GTI as far as I could tell - in other words excellent. Brakes were smooth and strong.

Looks

IMO, the looks are nicely judged for the way the car drives - understated quality with a real edge when you put your foot down! Even the wheels and grille look better each time I see them. Maybe the silver colour of the test car helped in this respect.

I have decided to order one. Will call the dealer tomorrow with my options. Thinking of getting:

5 door, DSG, silver metallic, leather, armrest

(the DSG comes with paddles, highline and MFSW)

[AGK512]

jagsevern Glad you enjoyed your TD best of luck with your order As you may have seen from my other posts VW are not allowing dealers to order DSG R32's at the moment. Hope for both of us that changes soon !

I'm also going for a 5dr reflex but without the leather but most of the other trimmings