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2012 Volkswagen Golf review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Volkswagen Golf highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

Mileage (EPA estimate)

19 city, 27 highway, 22 combined

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

5 out of 5

9 customer reviews
The 2012 Volkswagen Golf earned strong praise for its sporty performance, advanced safety features, and smooth ride. While fuel economy and interior space were often noted positively, there was mixed feedback on maintenance costs, seat comfort, and reliability. Overall, it stands out as a practical yet engaging option for small car buyers.

RepairPal reliability rating

4
Above Average

RepairPal gave the Volkswagen Golf an overall reliability rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Volkswagen Golf 26th out of 46 among Compact Cars.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf features and specs

Curious how Volkswagen Golf trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

TDI 2D Hatchback 2WD

Standard Features

  • Sunroof(s)
  • Heated Mirrors
  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Cloth Seats
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Side Airbags
  • Traction Control
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Turbo Diesel Engine
  • Dynaudio
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Navigation System
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • CD Audio

Optional Features

  • Power Seat(s)
  • Sunroof(s)
  • Rear Spoiler
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Navigation System
  • Satellite Radio Ready

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

2.0L

Horsepower

140

Torque (ft-lbs)

236

Engine type

Turbo Diesel

Fuel capacity

14.5

Wheelbase

101.5"

Overall length

165.4"

Width

70.3"

Height

58.3"

Leg room

F 41.2"/R 35.5"

Head room

F 39.3"/R 38.5"

Front tires

225/45R17

Rear tires

225/45R17

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2012 Volkswagen Golf FAQ

Volkswagen Golf articles

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We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.​

Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

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