The Good
The 2012 Golf offers a refined driving experience and precise handling appealing to driving enthusiasts. Its comfortable ride and well-designed interior provide a pleasant daily commute. Fuel-efficient engine options and solid build quality make it a practical choice, while its timeless design and available TDI engine offer a degree of desirability for emotional buyers.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2012 Golf include potential electrical issues, especially with power windows and door locks. The TDI engine, while efficient, can be expensive to repair. Some owners have reported issues with the dual-mass flywheel in manual transmission models. Regular maintenance is crucial for long-term reliability.
2012 Volkswagen Golf: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.5L Inline-5 (Gasoline): Available on base Golf models.
- 2.0L TDI Inline-4 (Diesel): Available on Golf TDI models.
- 2.0L TSI Inline-4 (Gasoline, Turbocharged): Available on Golf GTI models.
- Horsepower:
- 2.5L: 170 hp
- 2.0L TDI: 140 hp
- 2.0L TSI: 200 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2.5L (Manual): 23 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
- 2.5L (Automatic): 24 mpg city / 31 mpg highway
- 2.0L TDI (Manual): 30 mpg city / 42 mpg highway
- 2.0L TDI (Automatic): 30 mpg city / 42 mpg highway
- 2.0L TSI (Manual): 24 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
- 2.0L TSI (Automatic): 24 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.5L: Approximately 8.5 seconds
- 2.0L TDI: Approximately 8.7 seconds
- 2.0L TSI: Approximately 6.9 seconds
- Towing Capacity:
- Not officially rated for towing in North America.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Golf (Base): Standard features typically include air conditioning, power windows/locks, basic audio system, cloth seats.
- Golf TDI: Adds the 2.0L TDI diesel engine, upgraded interior trim, and potentially premium audio options.
- Golf GTI: Adds the 2.0L TSI turbocharged engine, sport suspension, sport seats, alloy wheels, and GTI-specific styling cues.
2012 Volkswagen Golf Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2012 |
Make | Volkswagen |
Model | Golf |
Trim | - |
Style | 2-Door 2.5-Liter 6-Speed Automatic |
Type | Sedan |
Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | Germany |
Manufacturing City | WOLFSBURG |
Dimensions
Doors | 2-Door |
Curb Weight | 1371.21 kg |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 1940.47 kg |
Overall Height | 146.05 cm |
Overall Length | 421.13 cm |
Overall Width | 177.8 cm |
Wheelbase Length | 257.81 cm |
Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
Engine | Turbocharged Gasoline I4, 2.0-L |
Engine Size | 2L |
Engine Cylinders | 5 |
Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
Transmission Type | Automatic |
Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel |
Steering Type | Power Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $19,095 USD |
Invoice Price | $18,331 USD |
Delivery Charges | $770 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 Volkswagen Golf Have?
Recalls for the 2012 Golf are worth checking with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) using the VIN to ensure any safety-related issues have been addressed. General long-term reliability concerns include the potential for premature wear of suspension components and the aforementioned electrical gremlins. Models with the DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) automatic transmission can require costly maintenance, including fluid changes and potential mechatronic unit failures. Regular maintenance and addressing minor issues promptly can help mitigate some of these concerns.
How long will the 2012 Volkswagen Golf last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern cars. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) were standard. Optional features might include parking sensors.
Safety features include front and side airbags, as well as side curtain airbags. The 2012 Golf received good crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). It earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. The IIHS awarded the 2012 Golf their "Top Safety Pick" designation.
While the 2012 Golf lacks advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like automatic emergency braking or lane departure warning found in newer vehicles, its solid safety ratings and fundamental safety features provide a reasonable level of protection.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2012 Volkswagen Golf Prices and Market Value
2012 Volkswagen Golf Cost of Ownership
2012 Volkswagen Golf Fuel Efficiency
2012 Volkswagen Golf Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2012 Volkswagen Golf Recalls & Defects
Fuel System, Diesel
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
AIR Bags:frontal
Unknown or Other
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
2012 Volkswagen Golf Warranty
Basic
Corrosion
Drivetrain
Maintenance
Roadside Assistance
2012 Volkswagen Golf Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Volkswagen Golf Compare to Other Sedan?
The Honda Civic is a strong alternative due to its proven reliability and fuel efficiency. The Mazda3 offers a sporty driving experience at a similar price point. The Toyota Corolla is a practical and reliable choice, but lacks the Golf's driving dynamics and interior refinement. The Ford Focus can be a good option, but reliability concerns are a consideration. The Golf stands out for its European driving feel and premium interior, but buyers should be prepared for potentially higher maintenance costs compared to Japanese rivals.
Ranks #158 Hatchback
1 | 2023 Toyota Corolla Hatchback | (0.0★) |
2 | 2023 Honda Civic Type R | (1.0★) |
3 | 2023 BMW i4 | (0.0★) |
4 | 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class | (0.0★) |
5 | 2016 Ford Focus Electric | (0.0★) |
6 | 2023 Audi A7 | (0.0★) |
7 | 2023 Nissan LEAF | (0.0★) |
8 | 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV | (4.0★) |
9 | 2022 Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid | (0.0★) |
10 | 2023 Jaguar I-PACE | (0.0★) |
11 | 2023 Tesla Model S | (5.0★) |
12 | 2022 Porsche Panamera | (0.0★) |
158 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Volkswagen Golf a Good Sedan?
Edmond Dantes on August 26, 2022
Fun and economical car, great valueThe car is a great balance between performance, economy, comfort, and versatility. It manages to do all of those things well, if not great. It won't win any races but it's fun to drive.
VW RICK on March 21, 2020
Fun and reliableI just turned 40k on my base model. Beside the normal oil changes, I recently replaced the Continental tires with the same tires ! I have owned many cars in my life, but never enjoyed any of them as much as this little hot hatch !
MChav on November 1, 2019
Great dependable car for jumping in and going.great worry free car. it just starts and goes without any hassle. comfortable perfect for heading to the beach or commuting. I deal owners are young female, young small family, commuter.
Ricleica on July 18, 2019
Fun car to driveI have owned many cars in my life, and several were high end and some were older vw’s. But this VW golf gives the most enjoyment of any car I have owned !
Mike on June 10, 2019
Solid, high quality, and fun to driveMy third VW Golf - this one has been the best - love it for it's versatility, low cost of ownership, reliability (only things I've had to replace is tires and battery in 112,000 miles) and joy of driving - not the fastest off the line but cornering, braking and high-speed driving / passing - wow!
Adriaatik on May 23, 2019
Very reliableIts very comfortable It has Bluetooth, radio , TV , Sirius, aux. It has DSG transmission, sunroof, it runs excellent, plenty of room. The engine is clean and new. Etc.
James D. on May 2, 2019
Going good so far!I was looking for a car that was reliable and good on gas milage, as due to working 7 days a week I need a constant transport to work. This car filled that and then some. Incredible interior, not too cluttered instrument panel and lots of head and leg room (I'm 6'2 and 350lbs). The seat is a small tiny bit too narrow on the drivers side, but definitely not something I'd subtract anything for given my own size. And just that little bit difficult to get out, but again... not a fault of the vehicle. Quiet too, with very little road noise and engine noise coming into the interior. Very stylish on the outside, even for a small compact car. Clean lines and a classic look with nothing cluttering the front of back like you see on some newer vehicles. All in all, and incredible car. I've only owned it for a few days so far, but they are known for being very reliable and I have yet to have any issues with it. I'm expecting many years of driving to look forward to.
MichaelgSalas on October 6, 2018
A nice reliable fun car great fuel mileage handlesIt?s very easy to drive and practical the comfort of the car is really nice it handles very well the display on the dashboard is easy to read the car manual is very helpful and easy to figure out and the ac is fantastic
Nick on August 10, 2018
Love this carAfter you put some money into it to get rid of what Volkswagen did you make it more economically friendly you get better MPG and more power out of it.
Mike on March 20, 2018
The Golf is an upscale car and great valueI've owned this vehicle since brand new, it now has 93,500 miles on it. It has been the most reliable car I've ever owned and never needed anything more than oil changes, breaks, and tires. Its an excellent car and I would recommend to anyone.