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September 29, 2020 11:11 am by

Clean Commuter: 2012 Volkswagen Golf with 48k Miles

For September 29, 2020, our used car find is this unusually clean 2012 VW Golf with just 48k miles. It’s listed for sale on craigslist by a private seller in the Orlando area for $8495.

Here’s what makes this one special.

Introduction

The sixth-generation Golf, codename Mk6, debuted for the 2010 model year (in the US). It was an evolutionary design, with a slightly more aerodynamic shape than its predecessor, the Mk5, plus an increased focus on build quality, which had been a sore spot for the brand.

In its road test at the time, Car and Driver noted, “From the solid ka-chunk of the door closures to the comforting embrace of the front bucket seats, everything about the latest Golf reinforces VW’s renewed emphasis on quality.”

Under the hood of the Mk6, though, not much changed — and that’s a good thing. The base Golf continued to use VW’s quirky inline five-cylinder, a design dating back to 2005 which has proven to be one of their most refined and reliable engines.

It puts out a healthy 170 hp, which when mated to the 6-speed automatic gearbox gets the car to 60 mph in about 8 seconds. That’s not GTI territory, but it is reasonably quick for an entry-level car. More importantly, the torquey motor feels fast around town, providing plenty of power where it really counts.

With GTIs getting most of the Mk6 spotlight, base Golfs like this one have been somewhat overlooked in the used car market. But if you don’t need the GTI’s go-fast bits, a base Golf makes a great daily driver, with better driving dynamics and more of a luxury feel than you’ll find with similar models in the segment, like a Civic or an Impreza.

The Listing

This particular car is one of the nicer examples we’ve seen in a while. With not even 50k miles, it still looks factory fresh inside and out, and the seller reports that all maintenance is up-to-date. A vehicle history report shows it to be a lifelong Florida car, with no accidents in its three-owner past.

The asking price of $8495 is just on the high end of the range for a Golf like this, according to KBB. But keep in mind that most private party sellers build a little “cushion” into the price, anticipating some negotiation. Assuming it checks out in person, we’d say $7500 would be very well bought.

Details and Specs

  • 2012 Volkswagen Golf (Mk6)
  • 48k miles
  • 2.5 liter inline five cylinder engine (170 hp)
  • 6-speed automatic transmission
  • Black on black cloth
  • for sale by owner for $8495
  • Sanford, Florida
  • WVWDB7AJ4CW332004

 

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