2012 Volkswagen Golf

Excellent car for the money.

By Raaji (TX) on Sunday, June 16, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 15,000

Pros: "Build quality, fun to drive, reliable"

Cons: "Rear seats don't fold flat"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"This has been my daily driver for the last year. I've been extremely happy with everything about it. The exterior styling is tastefully understated. The interior is just a great place to be. There isn't a single knob, switch, or stick that isn't perfectly placed and intuitive. The seats are a tad uncomfortable for extended road trips, but they're great for around town. I'm six foot two, and have plenty of leg and head room in the front even when I have to slide the seat forward to accommodate extra passengers. I'd say the only negative to the design is that the rear seats don't fold completely flat, which can make hauling large items a bit tricky. The car handles beautifully and even with the 2.5L i5 engine, it's got plenty of power. Switching to Sport Mode gives it the extra kick you need to take advantage of a short window to pass slower drivers, and the tap-shifting is quick enough for something that isn't intended to be a sporty car. Mechanically, I've never owned a more reliable car. Oil changes are recommended for every 10,000 miles and VW covers the first 3 years of maintenance."

Was this review helpful to you?  yes | no | report abuse

Quality hatchback so far

By Ranger Red (TX) on Thursday, June 13, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 15,500

Pros: "Audi-like refinement"

Cons: "Base model lacks amenities"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 8

"I purchased a very basic 2011 Golf that was a dealer demo with about 6,000 miles on it. It has the 2.5 liter with the automatic transmission. Original sticker price was about $21k but since it was surrounded by a parking lot full of 2012 models I got it for about $5000 off the sticker. Even though I got a decent deal, I soon began to regret that I bought the basic model. It lacks things I was used to, like an abundance of storage bins and steering wheel audio controls. The plastic wheel covers look cheap on the 15" steel wheels. I owned several VW's in the 80s and 90s and missed the driving dynamic that seems to be in their DNA. This car feels okay but it's no GTI. The nicely balanced steering and braking blend well with the base suspension. It feels refined, not like a cheap hatchback. The diesel version comes with 18" alloys and a sportier lowered suspension. I wish that was offered on base Golfs that come to the US. If you need a sportier driving experience then save up for the GTI. I am a heavyset man and getting in and out is not comfortable. I know, it's not VW's fault, but be aware of this if you're built like me. Once inside, the materials are better than average. The layout is simple and clean. I like the fact that I can fit an after-market stereo into the dash without a hassle. (I could not do this with my two previous Mazda's). I only drive about 8,000 miles a year, mostly stop and go city driving. It has not left me stranded but I average a disappointing 22 mpg combined. I drove an '88 Golf with a 5-speed in college and got around 35 mpg as I recall. If you want basic but quality transportation that does not have a Kia, Hyundai or Toyota badge on it, I can recommend buying a used Golf that has depreciated. New Golfs are pricey."

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

Was this review helpful to you?  yes | no | report abuse