2012 Volkswagen Golf Total Car Score Analysis

The 2012 Volkswagen Golf earns an excellent Total Car Scores in this category. 
 
Reviewers lauded the Golf for its powerful engines, refined driving dynamics, quick steering response and well-damped ride. Other positive feedback was issued for its high-quality interior, comfortable rear seat and spacious cargo area. The Golf’s availability of a clean-diesel powertrain was also a noted benefit. 
 
The Golf’s negatives were few, but generally agreed upon. Primarily, it is regarded as being expensive versus rivals. Another minus is the base Golf’s mediocre fuel economy. 
 
The Volkswagen Golf underwent a full redesign three years ago. It is virtually unchanged for 2012. 

2012 Volkswagen Golf Model Line-Up

The 2012 Volkswagen Golf is a five-passenger hatchback with two or four doors and offered in two trim levels: 2.5L and TDI. The more performance-oriented GTI is covered separately. 
 
Standard features for the 2.5L Golf includes heated power mirrors, cruise control, 15-inch wheels, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel and an eight-speaker stereo. The Golf TDI adds a firmer suspension, multifunction steering wheel, Bluetooth, 17-inch wheels and a USB interface with iPod integration. 
 
Notable options include a sunroof, navigation and a premium audio system. 
 
Standard safety comes from stability control, ABS and six airbags. The 2012 Volkswagen Golf earns above-average crash test scores from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the highest possible ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). 
 
The front-wheel-drive Volkswagen Golf 2.5L is equipped with a 2.5-liter inline-five producing 170 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. This engine is managed by either a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic.  
 
The Golf TDI is powered by a 2.0-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder. Output is 140 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. This unit ties to either a standard six-speed manual or an optional six-speed automated manual gearbox, known as DSG. 
 
EPA-estimated fuel economy for the 2012 Volkswagen Golf 2.5L is 24 mpg city, 31 mpg highway and 26 mpg combined with the automatic and 23/31/26 with the manual. The Golf TDI achieves fuel economy of 30/41/34 with the manual and 30/42/34 with the DSG transmission.

Total Car Score is not affiliated with, associated, authorized, or endorsed by, or in any way officially connected to any of the Expert Resources, nor does Total Car Score endorse any of the Expert Resources, or its affiliates.
Click here to see more.