2012 Volkswagen Golf

The 2012 Volkswagen Golf is the latest incarnation of the quintessential European hatchback. It has become a fixture of car markets throughout the world thanks to its good looks, excellent driving dynamics, and spacious interior.

Volkswagen offers two different engines and two different transmissions in the 2012 Golf. The standard engine is a 2.5 liter five-cylinder powerplant which generates 177 foot-pounds of torque and 170 horsepower. With a five-speed manual transmission, it achieves 23 miles per gallon in the city and 33 on the highway. The optional six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission brings its fuel economy to 24 and 31 mpg, respectively. VW's other engine option is a 2.0 liter lean-burn diesel which generates 140 horsepower, but a very powerful 236 foot-pounds of torque. Whether mated to a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed DSG automatic transmission, it still achieves 30 miles per gallon in the city and 42 on the highway.

One of the hallmarks of the 2012 Volkswagen Golf is that it is a very customizable vehicle. Buyers can choose how much equipment they want and which engine they prefer. They can also choose between a two- and four-door version of the car. Interestingly enough, though, every Golf has the same five passenger capacity and 15 cubic foot cargo area.

Trim levels vary on the Golf. Even the least well-equipped vehicles feature 6 airbags, and an MP3-capable touchscreen stereo system. Volkswagen offers a cold weather package with heated seats and washer nozzles, as well as an optional sunroof. The higher-end Golf vehicles feature the diesel engine and have, at a minimum, Bluetooth and special alloy wheels. Diesel Golfs can be further optioned with a sunroof, navigation system, xenon headlights, push-button start and even a high-end Dynaudio sound system.

As with many other European vehicles, the Golf is extremely safe. In addition to its six standard airbags, the car also features anti-lock brakes and

Performance-oriented drivers may choose to bypass the regular Golf for Golf R. This vehicle features the same 2.0 liter turbocharged engine as the Audi A5 sport coupe and Volkswagen's 4motion all wheel drive system. Only available with a manual transmission, this limited production sports car rockets from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 5.6 seconds.