Overview & Reviews

Beyond adjustments to its trim and options structure, the 2012 Volkswagen Golf is unchanged. Notably, however, one of those adjustments is the deletion of optional rear side airbags.

• Refined driving dynamics.
• Fuel-efficient diesel engine
• Outstanding cabin materials and construction
• Spacious hatchback body style

• Unrefined and inefficient gasoline engine
• Higher price than many rivals.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 32.00

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  2012 VW Golf TDI - 2012 Volkswagen Golf
  By chasda - November 23 - 12:51 am

  My previous car was a 2008 civic EXL. It was economical, dependable transportation, strictly point A to point B. I wanted to move up to something more competent, more fun to drive. I researched all the cars in the compact class. I compared power, performance and economy. Although all had something to offer, I felt the Golf TDI was a step ahead. The blend of performance, economy and build quality is unmatched in this segment. The diesel has a lot of torque and a broad power range, the DSG transmission blends perfectly, acceleration and passing are a breeze. The ride is solid, and handling is precise. Road noise is minimal, it has the feel of a much more expensive car. Sound system is awesome.

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  So far, so good - 2012 Volkswagen Golf
  By graham_line - February 18 - 4:32 pm

  After 15 months and 17000 miles, car still feels like new. Plenty of room for two people and very comfortable on 600-700 mile days. Fuel economy is averaging in low 40s for a highway/city mix.

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  happy so far - 2012 Volkswagen Golf
  By willie3051 - April 14 - 5:22 pm

  This is my first VW and the 2012 Golf is impressive. The car is very comfortable and handles well. On its first long trip, I averaged 33 mpg of mostly highway miles.

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  Simply Awesome! - 2012 Volkswagen Golf
  By txst - April 8 - 9:32 am

  This Golf TDI is a lot of fun to drive and fits like a glove. The torque is surprisingly strong and peppy. I love the looks of this car inside and out. Who needs an ugly prius when VW offers this Golf with 45 MPG. This is the fourth VW I have purchased (I have previously owned a Jetta TDI, a Passat, and a CC) and this one just might be my favorite out of the four. I highly recommend this car.

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  Best Car I Have Ever Owned - 2012 Volkswagen Golf
  By diggler2 - November 22 - 5:32 am

  I bought my 2012 Golf TDI brand new and I could not be happier with the car. From its handling, to its power, to its amazing fuel efficiency it is the whole package. It truly drives like a solid European car but at half the cost. I have owned Toyotas, Hondas, Jeeps, Chevys and this VW golf is by far my happiest purchase. I bought the top of the line Tech package and it is in my opinion worth the extra cost. The tech package comes with an incredible sounding Dynadio stereo as well as navigation, LED running lights, and xenon headlights. Definitely will consider purchasing another in 15 years when this one finally wears out....

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  TDI best diesel available (better than EPA) - 2012 Volkswagen Golf
  By Richard Marks - August 12 - 2:50 pm

  Now that I am in the middle of wondering what will happen to VW over the "scandal", I would not trade, sell, nor return my car (even for a refund of full purchase price). It has been a stellar car and, even if green-weenies get their panties in a wad over the "scandal", I would keep it, drive it until the "wheels fall off" (likely to be far in excess of 250,000 miles. Excellent mileage, decent comfort, a real towing ability.

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  Great ride - 2012 Volkswagen Golf
  By lspeed1983 - May 24 - 10:32 pm

  I purchased this car on 01/31/2012. The car now has 5.8K on the clock, so its past its first stage break-in-period. Im now averaging 39.7K overall in mixed driving, but can easily hit 48 MPG cruizing at 72 MPH @ just under 2K RMPs. I cant believe how powerful it feels while still being so fuel efficient. The shifter feels solid and well weighted, the clutch is light without being too light, and the steering is direct / tracks well. The car as a whole is vastly superior to anyother eco compact non-lux car also evident in its simple yet top-notch interior. For pure driving excitement the GTI wins hands down, but the TDI is a nice compromise that leaves me with no regrets.

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  12 TDI - 2012 Volkswagen Golf
  By ronsulli - February 14 - 1:45 am

  I got it my TDI new mid july . its at 29,000 miles , i love driving it , great car wouldnt trade it . 9.5 out of 10 . get one youll love it takes you every where , on a dime of diesel . from El Paso to Houston and back 150 bucks in diesel ! around 1500 miles .

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  Great Car To Drive - 2012 Volkswagen Golf
  By aom1 - November 20 - 8:33 am

  I got the 4 door hatchback with the base 2.5 engine. Like most VWs this is a drivers car. Its still built in Germany. Great feel on the road, very comfortable seats and a sophisticated feeling suspension. Very little road/wind noise. I have been getting around 27 mpg with mostly hwy driving. This powertrain has enough pep for my needs while still using regular gas. Theres lots of room with the seats folded down. VW still has great lease rates if you can negotiate.

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  QUICK AND FUEL EFFICIENT...but DSG confused. - 2012 Volkswagen Golf
  By dankocke - November 20 - 12:16 am

  I traded a 2011 Optima Turbo and dont miss the 270hp at all. The diesel torque is Fantasitic for spirited driving. My mileage has been around 39 mpg with A/C. The trip computer is off by as much as 4 mpg. I have 2000 miles on it and filled up 5 times. Only Issue: DSG can make your passengers feel ill because it is Jerky/seems confused when you first start out. Make sure to have all people in the car for test drive. Otherwise, the car has plenty of space for 2 adults and 2 kids. Backseat has actually more legroom than you realize by looking at it.... the footwells in the front are so deep you can easily move the seats up and still have room for the folks up front and back.