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2012 Volkswagen GTI review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Volkswagen GTI highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

Mileage (EPA estimate)

21 city, 31 highway, 25 combined

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4.6 out of 5

8 customer reviews
The 2012 Volkswagen GTI combines sporty performance and comfort with a turbocharged engine and well-designed interior. Positive feedback includes its smooth ride, versatile handling, and deceptive interior spaciousness. Critiques mention cabin noise during highway driving, small navigation screens, and premium fuel needs. Maintenance could include tire replacements or rotations.

RepairPal reliability rating

3
Above Average

RepairPal gave the Volkswagen GTI an overall reliability rating of 3 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Volkswagen GTI 44th out of 46 among Compact Cars.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Volkswagen GTI

Volkswagen GTI features and specs

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

Base 2D Hatchback 2WD

Standard Features

  • 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 Charged Engine
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • CD Audio

Optional Features

  • Sunroof(s)
  • Rear Spoiler
  • Navigation System

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

2.0L

Horsepower

200

Torque (ft-lbs)

207

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

14.5

Wheelbase

101.5"

Overall length

165.8"

Width

70"

Height

57.8"

Leg room

F 41.2"/R 35.5"

Head room

F 39.3"/R 38.5"

Front tires

225/40R18

Rear tires

225/40R18

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2012 Volkswagen GTI FAQ

Volkswagen GTI articles

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