The MK4 Golf R32, with its blend of performance and practicality, has attracted a wide range of admirers, including several celebrities. Known for its unique design, powerful VR6 engine, and all-wheel-drive system, the R32 was a car that stood out not just among enthusiasts but also within the world of entertainment. Here, we explore some of the notable celebrities who have owned the MK4 R32 and when they eventually parted ways with this iconic vehicle.
Jeremy Clarkson, the outspoken and iconic host of the popular television show "Top Gear," is one of the most famous figures to have owned a MK4 Golf R32. Known for his love of high-performance cars, Clarkson appreciated the R32 for its balanced blend of power and everyday usability. He often praised the car for its ability to provide thrills on the road while still being practical enough for daily driving. Clarkson owned the R32 for several years before selling it in the late 2000s, when his garage made room for other, more exotic vehicles.
Formula One World Champion Jenson Button also owned a MK4 Golf R32. As a professional racing driver, Button's choice of the R32 spoke volumes about the car's capabilities. The R32's all-wheel-drive system and VR6 engine likely appealed to his racing sensibilities, offering a more accessible performance car that still delivered a dynamic driving experience. Button eventually sold his R32 in the early 2010s as his career and collection of vehicles evolved.
The late Paul Walker, best known for his role in the "Fast & Furious" franchise, was a true car enthusiast with a deep appreciation for both American muscle and European engineering. Among his extensive collection, Walker owned a MK4 Golf R32, which he cherished for its performance and driving dynamics. Walker's R32 was part of his collection until his untimely passing in 2013, after which many of his cars, including the R32, were auctioned off to benefit his charity, Reach Out Worldwide.
Jay Kay, the frontman of the band Jamiroquai, is another celebrity who owned a MK4 Golf R32. Known for his love of cars, especially fast and unique ones, Jay Kay's collection includes an impressive range of vehicles. His R32 was a part of this collection for a time, reflecting his appreciation for well-engineered and stylish cars. Jay Kay eventually sold the R32 in the mid-2000s, likely to make room for other additions to his ever-changing fleet of vehicles.
The MK4 Golf R32 has found a place in the garages of some well-known celebrities, all of whom have a deep appreciation for performance vehicles. Whether they kept the car for its driving pleasure or as part of a larger collection, the R32's unique qualities made it a standout choice. Although these celebrities eventually moved on to other vehicles, the MK4 R32 remains a significant part of their automotive histories, remembered as a car that brought a thrilling yet practical experience to the world of celebrity car ownership.