2012 GTI (Volkswagon)

2012 GTI: Stylish and Comfortable

The 2012 Volkswagen GTI remains one of the sportiest hatchbacks on the market. The 2012 GTI is just as versatile and sophisticated as previous models. The fuel economy of the 2012 GTI puts it ahead of similar vehicles offered by competitors. New features of the 2012 GTI include LED daytime running lights and some minor feature-availability tweaks. Otherwise, the vehicle does not have any significant changes. The GTI remains slower when compared to its competitors and is not a front-runner when it comes to acceleration and braking. Yet, the GTI has several features that make it a good buy for its price range.

Performance

The 2012 GTI features the same engine used in several other VW models, a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine at 200 hp. The competition beats the GTI by an average of 60 hp, yet the overall driving experience remains enjoyable with low-end torque and respectable fuel economy. The GTI is fine if speed and handling aren’t at the top of your list. If you are just using it to get to work, cart the family around and run errands, the GTI is more than satisfactory in terms of performance.

Styling

The interior of the 2012 GTI remains surprisingly upscale with supportive front seats and comfortable, premium materials. Rear passengers, often cramped in similar models, have plenty of legroom in the back. Additionally, there is a sizable area to hold up to 12.4 cubic ft. of cargo. However, if you are looking for places to store sunglasses, phones and other accessories, you have limited choices. Two-door and four-door body styles are offered with a choice of two trim levels: Autobahn and base. Additional interior features include:

• Mature cabin design
• Upscale trip and switchgear
• Comfortable, stylish seats
• Roomy rear seats

Features

Standard features on the 2012 GTI include full power accessories, 18-inch alloy wheels, launch control (DSG), heated outside mirrors, rear-roof spoiler, steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles (DSG), eight-speaker sound system, auxiliary audio jack, satellite radio, BlueTooth, iPod integration, cruise control, leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, air conditioning, plaid cloth upholstery, sport suspension, split-folding rear seats (center pass-through), heated sport-seats and a navigational system. The Convenience and Sunroof Package includes:

• Sunroof
• Multifunction steering wheel controls
• Touchscreen interface
• Stereo (in-dash CD changer)

The GTI with Sunroof and Navigation includes the Convenience and Sunroof features plus:

• Adaptive xenon headlamps
• Touchscreen navigation system
• LED running lights

The GTI Autobahn has the features of the other two packages, plus:

• 18-inch wheels
• Key-less ignition
• Premium sound system
• Partial-leather seating

Powertrains/Performance

A turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 powers the front-wheel-drive 2012 GTI, producing 200 hp and 207 lb./ft. of torque. A partial-zero-emissions version of the engine is available in California to further reduce emissions. The 2012 VW GTI features a standard transmission with an optional six-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission. The shift-lever located on the center console allows for manual shifting. The standard transmission goes from 0 to 60 in 7.3 seconds. The fuel economy is estimated at 24 mpg (City) and 33 mpg (highway) with 27 mpg (combined). The manual transmission has an EPA estimated fuel economy of 21/31/25.

Safety

The GTI continues to perform well in most safety testing areas. The GTI earned a “good” rating in frontal-offset testing, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Testing. The vehicle also received a “good” rating in roof-strength and side-impact tests. According to Edmunds performance testing, the GTI brakes from 0-60 at 129 ft.

Standard Safety Features

• Front airbags
• Side airbags
• Full-length side curtain airbags
• Stability control
• Traction control
• Anti-lock brakes

Additional Safety Features

• Six standard airbags
• Electronic brake-pressure distribution
• Brake assist
• Anti-slip regulation
• Electronic differential lock
• Hydraulic brake assist

Impressions

The 2012 Volkswagen GTI lacks the speed and agility of similar sport hatchbacks, but it does excel in overall driving experience as long as you are not trying to set endurance and speed records. Turbo lag is barely noticeable. The GTI is fine for everyday driving with just a few minor complaints when it comes to suspension tuning. The cabin is reasonably quiet, even at highway speeds. The suspension easily endures normal bumps along the way.

Overall, the 2012 Volkswagen GTI is a comfortable ride for its price range with qualities that should satisfy most drivers. The GTI stands out in terms of overall comfort and ride quality when compared to similar vehicles on the market. The minor drawbacks aren’t really that noticeable when the GTI is used for normal everyday use.  If you want to check out a different VW, you might want to read our 2012 Volkswagen Passat review.