2012 VOLKSWAGEN Golf

Solid Quality Craftsmanship

Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5

Of course, you've heard of the dieselgate scandal. Perhaps you have not heard about the failure of the high pressure fuel pump that had been under federal investigation. Regardless, I'm caught in the middle of accepting the buyback of $15,000+ OR keeping the car, getting it fixed on VW's dollar, and pocketing the settlement of $5,000. I bought the vehicle because of its mix of performance and fuel efficiency and because I have an affinity towards hatchbacks. Why a hatchback? Because I frequently transport stuff: lawn mower, weed wacker, leaf blower, furniture, etc. If I sold it back, what would I buy that met these needs? A Prius? Someone online commented that the Prius performance is similar to pushing a grocery shopping cart; however, fuel efficiency is great. A Mazda 3? There's a slight chance but probably not. I have 128K miles on this VW with only minor issues to report: horn wouldn't work early on. That's been fixed. Lately and very rarely, I've noticed I'll be driving down the road and the sunroof will open. It's a little freaky but it's happened about 3 times total and it doesn't open all the way, just to the first level. The Bi-Xenon / adaptive headlights are powerful. Dynaudio is a pleasure to listen to. I use the navigation all of the time and it's ok. The leather wrap-around steering wheel is comfortable to hold. My biggest complaint would be that the front seat could be more comfortable since there's little lumbar support and the headrest is in an awkward position. However, the front seats sort of wrap around your sides keeping you in place. This car is awesome and I'm worried that any car I buy to replace it will be a disappointment. Besides, I can see this car going way over 250K miles. What car would I buy could do that? My fuel efficiency is less than most other TDI drivers because I admit, there are times when I "need" to pass or get through or by drivers that are "in my way". This car moves quickly when needed and it's truly what makes it a joy to drive. At excessively high speeds it handles like a charm - no shaking, no rattling, and tight steering.