Yes indeed, this is a sporty compact car that could easily come with racing stripes, considering it accelerates from 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds. And it would go faster if the R32 wasn’t on the chubby side, weighing 3,500 pounds. Gas mileage is predictably on the lower end for a compact vehicle at an estimated at 18-23 mpg.

This is obviously not your father’s Volkswagen. In fact, your father and many other dads would never consider buying it because the R32 is not family friendly.

This VW coup (no sedan is offered) has a backseat built for two at most, and even that is a tight squeeze. Forget about three kids in the back. The young, single crowd, a youthful couple or even a middle-aged driver who likes some adventure behind the wheel were meant to own the R32.

Despite its performance capabilities, the R32 has drawbacks. A unique six-speed automatic is the only transmission option. However, manual shifts can be made with the steering wheel paddles or by moving the gear lever to the side.

Introduced by famed Volkswagen engineer Wolfgang Schreiber, the R32 has a direct shift gearbox (DSG), a system made up of two, three-speed gear sets. As one gear set disengages, another quickly engages, thanks to its efficient computer system. The DSG does its thing well, but some drivers might prefer the old-fashioned method, synchronizing the clutch with the shifting of gears to increase the fun factor.

Performance is not the only upside. The R32 handles quite nicely, providing a smooth and quiet ride even on rough pavement, making the VW a good choice in many driving situations. Yet this is not a nimble sports car. It won’t be begging to increase the speed on challenging, winding roads, so back off a bit.

Equipped with all-wheel drive, the R32 has 18-inch "summer tire" wheels. That means, if you're planning snow trips, buy a winter set of tires, too.

Volkswagen introduced a similar R32 vehicle in 2004, offering just 5,000 units in the United States. Four years later, VW decided to offer the same number of vehicles again. So, if you want to purchase an R32, do it fast.

The 2008 version comes with a solid package of standard features, including a rear roof spoiler and a moonroof. The R32 has a smart interior design, offering climate and audio controls easy to master. Even the optional navigational system was easier than most to operate.

FAST FACTS: 2008 VOLKSWAGEN R32

Power — 3.2-liter, V6, 250 horsepower.

Mileage Estimates — 18 mpg (city), 23 mpg (highway).                                          

Standard Features — rear roof spoiler, moonroof, anti-lock brakes, daytime running lights, remote unlocking trunk, automatic climate contr,  leather-wrapped steering wheel, 6-disc CD changer with MP3 capability, center console.

Warranty — Powertrain, 5 years/60,000; Bumper-to-bumper, 4 years/50,000 miles; Corrosion 12 years/unlimited mileage; Free Roadside Assistance, 4 years/unlimited mileage.