Rebirth is the theme of 2012 for Volkswagen, as they reintroduce two models which took a break last year for redesigns but are returning now: the Beetle (formerly the New Beetle) and the Passat.
Opening things up is the Golf and its high performance sibling, the GTI. The Golf and GTI are both available as two- or four-door hatchbacks in a distinctive shape that hasn’t really changed over many years and seat up to five passengers. The Golf is a less focused than the GTI, offering several different engine choices, including an ultra-efficient diesel engine that pushes highway mpg all the way to 42. As for the GTI, it gets a few unique styling cues so that you can tell it apart and a 200-hp, turbocharged four-cylinder is the only engine option. It adds LED daytime running lights for 2012 and features a lower ride and upgraded suspension when compared to the Golf.
Returning after a one-year hiatus is the Beetle. This latest iteration is not nearly as “bubbly” as the previous version with sharper lines and a flattened front hood which gives it a more aggressive look. There is also a new transmission available, a dual-clutch six-speed automatic, and the Beetle still seats four-passengers.
The Jetta was redesigned last year and for 2012 adds a new high performance GLI trim. Like the Golf, the Jetta is also rather flexible with sedan and wagon body styles and a handful of engines to choose from including a turbo-diesel option.
Like the Beetle, the midsize Passat took a year off to regroup and returns with new styling (similar to the Jetta) and a vastly reduced base price. Although the Passat loses a few of its old standard features, it picks up a few new ones including a dual-zone automatic climate control system that is usually optional for cars in this segment.
Volkswagen also produces another pair of passenger cars that are more upscale and don’t really fit into traditional categories. One is the Eos hardtop convertible coupe which gets restyled inside and out for 2012. The only transmission available now is the dual-clutch six-speed automatic (the manual has been dropped).
Second is the CC which features a coupe-like design but still has four doors. Its interior is very upscale and that coupled with a sport ride/driving dynamics makes the CC desirable on a few levels.
The Tiguan compact crossover SUV also gets a slight makeover for 2012 as well as a lower base price. Inside, there are plenty of high-quality materials around which give the Tiguan a leg up on the competition when it comes to interior refinement.
Speaking of refinement, the larger Touareg is designed to compete with many of the luxury crossover SUVs on the market and offers a choice between gas/diesel power, an eight-speed automatic, and standard all-wheel drive.
If you do find that you need to carry more passengers, then the Routan minivan is happy to oblige. The seven-passenger Routan shares its underpinnings with the Chrysler Town & Country but has a completely unique interior.
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