Photo Gallery:
2012 Volkswagen Golf
Day 1
 Click Image to Enlarge |
Two weeks behind the wheel of the Nissan Versa was enough to realize it is one of the least desirable new cars on the market. Five minutes in with the new 2012 Volkswagen Golf TDI and I had totally forgotten about the Versa, as the Golf is close to double the price after taxes, but also, perhaps, double the car (at least in terms of refinement).
This week I get to test the virtues of diesel transportation in minus 30-degree Celsius weather, and hopefully return the same or better fuel economy than hybrids and economy cars in my Highline trim tester.
 Click Image to Enlarge |
The 2.0-litre TDI engine outputs a respectful 140 hp but offers up an incredible 236 lb-ft of torque at 1,750 rpm. It can be mated to a six-speed manual transmission or Volkswagen’s very popular six-speed, dual-clutch transmission, as fitted to my tester.
The Golf is available in four “trim” levels: Trendline, Sportline, Comfortline and, as mentioned, Highline. Highline adds a considerable amount of luxury to an already well-optioned vehicle, with two-zone climate control, fog lights, power sunroof, six-CD/MP3 stereo, satellite radio, iPod interface, Bluetooth connectivity, multifunction steering wheel, leather upholstery, electronic stability control, and hydraulic brake assist.
My tester also includes the optional $890 navigation system to top this off as the most expensive four-door Golf money can buy (excluding the GTI). Considering the number of features and that intangible German “feel” one gets driving a VW, this Golf almost seems like a bargain at $31,685.
2012 Volkswagen Golf TDI
MSRP as tested (excluding destination): $31,685
For more information on Volkswagen and the Golf visit Volkswagen Canada
For even more on this car FOLLOW James on Twitter
