2012 Volkswagen GLI Review
The 2012 Volkswagen GLI is a 4-door sedan offered in 2 trim levels, 2.0T and Autobahn, powered by a turbocharged 2.0 liter 4-cylinder engine sending 200hp/207lb-ft of torque to the front wheels. A 6 speed manual is standard and a 6 speed dual-clutch automated manual is optional. Even the base 2.0T is well equipped with standard features that include keyless entry, full power accessories, front sport seats that are height-adjustable and more. The Autobahn trim adds further upgrades and conveniences.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The 2012 Volkswagen GLI will offer the fun-to-drive experience, while providing the practicality of a 4 door sedan to nicely fill the void between sporty economy cars and the more expensive luxury sports sedans.
What’s New For 2008:
The Volkswagen GLI returned in 2012 as an all-new model based upon the recently redesigned VW Jetta.
What is the Predicted Reliability:
The Volkswagen GLI Autobahn received an overall score in the ‘very good’ range with high marks for its responsive and agile handling, powertrain, good fuel economy ratings, nice interior including spacious backseat and trunk space as well as excellent crash-test results.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The IIHS awarded the relatively identical VW Jetta the highest honor by selecting it as a 2012 Top Safety Pick and in government safety tests by NHTSA the Jetta received an overall 4 Stars out of a possible 5, with 5 Stars awarded for overall side impact protection. The Volkswagen GLI is equipped with safety features that include traction/stability control, antilock disc brakes and front side/side curtain airbags.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Well equipped, spacious interior
+ Fuel economy ratings
+ Energetic engine
Cons
– Many rivals are faster
– Styling isn’t distinctive
– Doesn’t handle quite as well as others
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Volkswagen GLI has a slightly higher starting price than the Chevy Cruz LTZ, but is lower priced than the Kia Optima SX. The GLI and Optima have similar fuel economy ratings of 22MPG city/33MPG highway and 22/34MPG respectively, with the Cruz offering the better ratings of 26/38MPG as a trade-off for the less powerful engine. Both the Volkswagen GLI and Chevy Cruz offer a basic warranty of 3years/36,000miles with the Kia coming with a 5year/60,000mile warranty.
What Others Are Saying:
"Even with stability control imposing strict limits, the GLI is plenty of fun…Sure, more power could be handy at times, but overloading the front wheels would kill the GLI’s smoothness. As it is, this output is a great balance between power and comfort." – Car and Driver
"This combined package offers more mature styling than compacts like the Ford Focus with a sharper driving experience and more backseat room." – AutoBlog
"The new Jetta GLI is an amazingly competent and fun car to drive. I was able to turn many a mile on some perfect roads just outside of L.A., and by perfect I mean perfect roads for evaluating." – MotorTrend
Read more about the 2012 Volkswagen GLI at the VW manufacturer site.
