Used 2012 Volkswagen GTI PZEV Hatchback Review
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2012 Volkswagen GTI PZEV Hatchback.
Most helpful consumer reviews
Great car until it gets old
Good car until it gets old, Merced, CA, 06/21/2022
2012 Volkswagen GTI PZEV 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
Original owner of a 2012 GTI (base model). My wife and I loved this car, from the way it looks to the way it drives, but issues starts coming out as it gets older. First, the biggest issue with this car is the carbon build up. At around 50,000 and 100,000 miles, the carbon build up got so bad that it caused the engine to hesitate really bad, and the 'check engine' light to come on. I … have tried the chemical induction cleaning, but it never worked, even if done at a regular interval. The only solution is a mechanical cleaning, which is not cheap. This is not an isolated issue. I had a 2010 CC, with the same engine, and had the same issue with carbon build up at around the same mileage. Another issue, at around 100,000, the ignition coil, water pump, and thermostat failed - again, not cheap to fix. And, once again, it was the same issue with our CC, at around the same mileage. We love this GTI, but I don't think it will be economical to keep it for as long as we kept our Honda Civic.
sensible, and sensational.
Nate93460, Ashburn, VA, 05/18/2016
2012 Volkswagen GTI PZEV 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
Best "bang for your buck" to be had. Surprisingly spacious and comfortable, exceedingly practical and thoughtfully designed. Want the car because it's fun to drive, buy the car because it's fun to drive every single day. My 45lb dog is perfectly comfortable in the hatch, even with the rear seats up, so she never again has to be left behind when my partner and I go out with friends. … Simple controls and unassuming performance under light throttle make it a car you could lend to your grandmother, but selecting "S" on the DSG transmission yields remarkably aggressive shift points and an eagerness to brake the front tires loose. The small "poof" sound you get from the exhaust thanks to the near instant shifts made by the DSG are extremely satisfying, encouraging you to time your up-shifts just around the 3,500 rpm mark. It may not be as outright fast and sharp as its key rivals, but it is far more comfortable and refined. completely sensible when you're stuck in suburban traffic, totally sensational when you're not.
Edmunds Summary Review of the 2012 Volkswagen GTI PZEV Hatchback
Pros & Cons
- Pro:Hatchback versatility
- Pro:interior sophistication
- Pro:supple ride
- Pro:good fuel economy.
- Con:Competitors are quicker and handle better
- Con:lack of interior storage.
Full Edmunds Review: 2012 Volkswagen GTI Hatchback
Edmunds Insurance Estimator
The Edmunds TCO® estimated monthly insurance payment for a 2012 Volkswagen GTI in Pennsylvania is:
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