The 2012 Volkswagen TDI is a diesel powered car that is fuel efficient while offering an affordable starting price. It comes in a two door hatchback or a four door compact style with an automatic or manual transmission. A 2.0 liter Clean Diesel runs this vehicle making it unique among its competitors. It also holds it investment well and provides a reasonable return for those looking to resell in a few years.
Key Features
The TDI offers a 2 liter engine with 140 hp and 236 pound-feet of torque. It can go from zero to sixty in under nine seconds. The fuel economy is about 30 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway. The fuel tank is 14.5 gallons and has a range of over 600 miles so you will be filling up less than before. Heated windshield washer nozzles, sport tuned suspension, leather steering wheel, and 17-inch alloy wheels come standard on the TDI.
Changes for 2012
The TDI comes with the Clean Diesel with the option of TDI, TDI with Sunroof and Navigation, or the TDU with Tech Package.
What We Like
The Volkswagen TDI does have a towing capacity of 1,000 pounds, something its competitors don’t have. Driving on the highway provides a relaxed feel for passengers with both an automatic or manual transmissions due to the high sixth gear. Overall, the TDI is fun to drive while offering great fuel economy.
What Concerns Us
Diesel fuel does cost more at the pump so that is something to think about before purchasing this vehicle. The TDI model does have a little more noise than its gasoline counterpart and a slightly higher starting price.
Available Models
The 2012 Volkswagen TDI comes in manual and automatic transmissions. Both have a similar fuel economy with the same engine.
Major Recalls
A recall was issued in the 2012 Volkswagen TDI due to problems with the fuel line that feeds injector number two. The resonance can cause the line to fail, which can lead to an engine fire. Volkswagen will refit each vehicle with a vibration damper to prevent engine failure or fire from occurring.
Common Issues
Common consumer complaints include slow seat adjusters, sound system locking up, controls that are difficult to read, limited storage space, touchscreen inadequate, takes a while to warm up on cold mornings, and to update the technology you have to take it to a Volkswagen dealer.
