The 2012 Volkswagen Passat marked a significant shift for the nameplate, aiming squarely at the heart of the American family sedan market. This mid-size sedan, offered in a four-door body style, debuted in 2011 as a 2012 model and ran through 2019. Key trims included the S, SE, SEL, and TDI (diesel). New, the pricing ranged from around $20,000 to $33,000. Its spacious rear seats, large trunk, and available fuel-efficient TDI engine made it a popular choice.
The Good
The 2012 Passat boasts a comfortable ride and spacious interior, appealing to practical buyers. The available TDI engine offers excellent fuel efficiency. Its understated, yet sophisticated design provides an emotional connection for those seeking a refined, reliable family sedan with a touch of European flair and strong value.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses include reports of oil consumption issues, particularly with the 2.5L engine. Some owners have also reported issues with the automatic transmission. The interior materials, while functional, may not feel as premium as some competitors. Electrical glitches and sensor malfunctions have also been reported. It's crucial to check the service history.
2012 Volkswagen Passat: Quick Overview
Key specs for the 2012 Volkswagen Passat:
- Engine Options:
- 2.5L Inline-5: 170 hp, 177 lb-ft of torque
- 2.0L TDI Diesel Inline-4: 140 hp, 236 lb-ft of torque
- 3.6L VR6: 280 hp, 258 lb-ft of torque
- Horsepower: Ranging from 140 hp to 280 hp, depending on the engine.
- Fuel Economy:
- 2.5L: Up to 22 mpg city / 31 mpg highway
- 2.0L TDI: Up to 31 mpg city / 43 mpg highway
- 3.6L VR6: Up to 20 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.5L: Around 8.2 seconds
- 2.0L TDI: Around 9.3 seconds
- 3.6L VR6: Around 6.4 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- S: Basic features include air conditioning, cruise control, power windows and locks, and a six-speaker audio system.
- SE: Adds features like alloy wheels, heated front seats, upgraded audio, and leatherette upholstery.
- SEL: Includes leather upholstery, navigation system, premium audio, and dual-zone climate control.
- TDI: Available in SE and SEL trims, offering the fuel-efficient diesel engine.
2012 Volkswagen Passat Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2012 |
| Make | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | CHATTANOOGA |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.5L L5 |
| Engine Size | 2.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 Volkswagen Passat Have?
The 2012 Volkswagen Passat has seen its share of reported problems and recalls. Frequently reported issues include excessive oil consumption, particularly with the 2.5L engine. Some owners have experienced problems with the automatic transmission, including rough shifting and premature failure. Electrical issues, such as malfunctioning sensors and faulty wiring, have also been noted. Recalls have addressed issues such as fuel pump failures, potentially leading to stalling, and problems with the side marker lights. Long-term reliability concerns often center around the longevity of the 2.5L engine and the potential for high repair costs associated with the DSG transmission in TDI models. Specific to the 2012 model year, some owners reported issues with the early production runs, suggesting a thorough inspection and detailed service history check before purchasing. It's advisable to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for the latest recall information and owner complaints.
How long will the 2012 Volkswagen Passat last?
With proper maintenance, a 2012 Volkswagen Passat can potentially reach 200,000 miles or more. However, longevity heavily depends on consistent oil changes, timely repairs, and addressing known issues like oil consumption. Due to their age, potential buyers should expect that many examples will have surpassed 150,000 miles. Long-term durability can be affected by neglect; therefore, carefully inspecting its service record is essential. Weaknesses over time commonly involve suspension components, electrical systems, and the aforementioned engine and transmission concerns.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2012 Volkswagen Passat offered a decent array of tech and safety features for its time. Standard on most trims was a six-speaker audio system with a CD player and auxiliary input. Higher trims featured an upgraded sound system, navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity. Driver-assistance features were relatively limited compared to modern vehicles but included options like parking sensors. Safety features included standard antilock brakes, stability control, and a suite of airbags. Optional features included a rearview camera. The 2012 Passat received strong crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS. The NHTSA gave it a 5-star overall safety rating. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick. The base S trim was quite basic in terms of tech. Moving up to the SE and SEL trims added features like a touchscreen interface, satellite radio, and keyless entry. No advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control or lane departure warning were available. The infotainment system, while functional, could feel dated compared to newer systems.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Candy White
Reflex Silver Metallic
Black Uni
Night Blue Metallic
Fortana Red Metallic
Platinum Gray Metallic
Interior Colors
Titan Black
Cornsilk Beige
Moonrock Gray
2012 Volkswagen Passat Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2012 Volkswagen Passat ranged from approximately $20,000 for the base S trim to around $33,000 for a fully loaded VR6 SEL model. As of late 2024, used market prices typically range from $5,000 to $12,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level. The Passat has experienced significant depreciation, which makes it an affordable used car option. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, maintenance history, mileage, and whether it's a desirable trim level (like the TDI). Models with the VR6 engine tend to hold slightly more value due to their performance appeal.
2012 Volkswagen Passat Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for a 2012 Volkswagen Passat are generally average for its class. Fuel costs vary depending on the engine, with the TDI diesel being the most economical. Maintenance can be moderate, but unexpected repairs, particularly those related to the engine or transmission, can be costly. Long-term ownership costs are generally moderate if the vehicle is well-maintained. Neglecting maintenance can quickly escalate costs. Overall, it can be an economical car if you prioritize the TDI model and keep up with maintenance.
2012 Volkswagen Passat Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
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City Mileage
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Highway Mileage
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2012 Volkswagen Passat Safety Rating
NHTSA
2012 Volkswagen Passat Insurance
Insurance for a 2012 Volkswagen Passat is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Volkswagen Passat Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2012 Volkswagen Passat competed against the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, and Chevrolet Malibu. In terms of performance, the Passat's VR6 engine offered a competitive edge, while the TDI provided superior fuel economy compared to most rivals' gasoline engines. The Camry and Accord generally had better reputations for long-term reliability. Feature-wise, the Passat was generally competitive, but some rivals offered more advanced tech features even back then. Pricewise, the Passat was positioned similarly to its competitors. The Ford Fusion offered a more stylish design and available hybrid powertrain. The Chevrolet Malibu offered a comfortable ride, but its reliability was also a concern. The Hyundai Sonata provided a strong value proposition with a long warranty. The Toyota Camry remains a solid choice for buyers prioritizing reliability. The Honda Accord is a strong alternative offering a balance of performance, reliability, and features. If reliability is paramount, the Camry or Accord are better choices, while the Fusion offers a more engaging driving experience. The Passat's strength lies in its spaciousness and available TDI engine.
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Volkswagen Passat a Good Sedan?
The 2012 Volkswagen Passat is ideal for buyers seeking a spacious and comfortable mid-size sedan at an affordable price point. It's worth buying *used* if found in good condition with a comprehensive maintenance history. The TDI models offer excellent fuel economy and are desirable, but require careful inspection of the DSG transmission. The 2.5L engine models are more common but require scrutiny for oil consumption. Avoid examples with significant deferred maintenance. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended due to the potential for costly repairs. For budget-conscious buyers needing a roomy sedan, the 2012 Passat can be a reasonable option, but only if it passes a thorough inspection.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.