The Good
The 2012 Jetta offers a comfortable ride and a spacious interior, appealing to practical buyers. The available TDI engine provides excellent fuel efficiency. For emotional buyers, the Jetta boasts a clean, European-inspired design and, in GLI trim, a sporty driving experience. The Jetta represents a solid value proposition in the compact sedan segment.
The Bad
The 2012 Jetta's weaknesses include a somewhat bland interior compared to previous generations, especially in the base S trim. Some owners have reported issues with the 2.5L engine's fuel economy and reliability of certain electronic components. Check for proper maintenance records, particularly regarding oil changes and DSG transmission service (if applicable).
2012 Volkswagen Jetta: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.0L Inline-4: 115 hp
- 2.5L Inline-5: 170 hp
- 2.0L TDI (Diesel) Inline-4: 140 hp
- 2.0L TSI (GLI) Inline-4: 200 hp
- Horsepower: Ranging from 115 hp to 200 hp, depending on the engine.
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2.0L: 24 mpg city / 34 mpg highway
- 2.5L: 23 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
- 2.0L TDI: 30 mpg city / 42 mpg highway
- 2.0L TSI (GLI): 22 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times (Approximate):
- 2.0L: 10.5 seconds
- 2.5L: 8.5 seconds
- 2.0L TDI: 8.7 seconds
- 2.0L TSI (GLI): 6.9 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- S: Base model with basic features like air conditioning, power windows, and a CD player.
- SE: Adds features like cruise control, upgraded audio system, and alloy wheels.
- SEL: Includes features like leatherette upholstery, heated seats, sunroof, and navigation system (optional).
- TDI: Similar to SE or SEL but with the diesel engine, offering improved fuel economy.
- GLI: Sport-tuned suspension, more powerful engine, sport seats, and unique styling cues.
2012 Volkswagen Jetta Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2012 |
Make | Volkswagen |
Model | Jetta |
Trim | - |
Style | 4-Door Sedan Manual |
Type | Sedan |
Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | Mexico |
Manufacturing City | PUEBLA |
Dimensions
Doors | 4-Door |
Curb Weight | 1431.99 kg |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 1925.95 kg |
Overall Height | 143.76 cm |
Overall Length | 462.79 cm |
Overall Width | 177.8 cm |
Wheelbase Length | 265.18 cm |
Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
Engine | 2.0-L I4 |
Engine Size | 2L |
Engine Cylinders | 4 |
Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
Transmission Type | Automatic |
Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $23,495 USD |
Invoice Price | $22,555 USD |
Delivery Charges | $770 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 Volkswagen Jetta Have?
How long will the 2012 Volkswagen Jetta last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2012 Volkswagen Jetta Prices and Market Value
2012 Volkswagen Jetta Cost of Ownership
2012 Volkswagen Jetta Fuel Efficiency
2012 Volkswagen Jetta Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2012 Volkswagen Jetta Recalls & Defects
Engine and Engine Cooling:exhaust System
Fuel System, Diesel
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine
AIR Bags:frontal
Suspension:rear
Unknown or Other
Steering:column Locking:anti-Theft Device
Electrical System:ignition:anti-Theft:control Module
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
2012 Volkswagen Jetta Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2012 Volkswagen Jetta Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Volkswagen Jetta Compare to Other Sedan?
Ranks #1724 Sedan
1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
1724 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Volkswagen Jetta a Good Sedan?
Daniel Baldwin on February 4, 2023
I like my jettaThis was the 1st car that I bought brand new a 2012 jeddah station wagon I like this car a lot have a 150000 miles on it only one issue and that was resolved quickly I keep it maintained I take care of oil changes when needed And it has been a very good car
Jennifer on May 26, 2021
Very happy with purchasePerfect first vehicle for my son, he loves it. Great on gas and enjoyable to drive. Great sound system! So far an excellent decision, no regrets.
Brandi R on March 25, 2021
We have no complaints at all!!!My daughter loves her new car. And I love how safe the car has been rated. She says it is so comfortable inside. She is enjoying showing all of her friends.
AllyOop on February 18, 2021
A tossupLacks upgrades that are usually standard these days but as long as there’s not high water, great car to drive. Not too great on gas mileage, there aren’t vents in the backseat, you have to guess or manually look up gauge alerts, and the sunroof occasionally gets stuck while open.
VW on February 3, 2021
great carMy son loves it. Reliable, sturdy and perfect fit. Great on gas. A lot of great features. L O V E IT Color id gray/silver
ABZ on December 15, 2020
Excellent German automobile!I used to own a BMW and I completely lost faith in German cars due to the poor experience I had with the BMW's. However, the VW Jetta is a completely different vehicle. The reliability is almost on par with the Japanese cars. The build quality is very solid. The Jetta I have is an SE, so it is not loaded with too many fancy features. However, you can tell that the manufacturer did not compromise on quality and ended up using cheap plastic parts and did BMW in numerous cases. I opted to get rid of mine eventually, because for a bigger person, I was beginning to feel a little cramped. I would go for a larger VW again if I get the chance.
Barb on December 1, 2020
My last VWThis is my 5th VW, and my last. Only 48,000 miles on a 2012 Jetta and the heated seats quit working, power locks quit working. I got a certified car thinking I'd be covered longer but no help and VW doesn't care and won't help. It's my last VW, I'm moving on to a Subaru or BMW.
Doreen’s Jetta on November 20, 2020
Most Reliable car I’ve ownedI use it to visit my daughter is well in college in Vermont keen took a trip to Florida most reliable car never had any problems. Very good gas mileage 37 miles to the gallon
Edwin on September 22, 2020
Great all around vehicle.This has been nothing but reliable, fuel efficient, and a smooth ride. I loved this car from the minute I learned how to drive a stick shift.
Samantha on July 17, 2020
Takes Me EverywhereI really enjoy owning this car, hasn't had problems since I purchased it and it's enough for me in regards to space and everything. Good on gas and i look cute in it!