2012 Volkswagen Passat Tech S 2.0 TDi

Summary:

Smart

Faults:

ABS sensors, plus a service. That is all in my two years of ownership. Cambelt and water pump changed before purchase according to history.

General Comments:

The 2012 Passat is a sharp looking machine, I really like this generation's looks.

Very smooth to drive, nice interior even though this is a pretty low end trim level.

2.0 TDi provides enough power and still manages around 50 mpg or more.

Just a good solid car. 12 years old and approaching the 100K mark, but I have confidence this car will easily last another few years.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 5th June, 2024

2012 Volkswagen Passat BMotion Tech SE Estate 1.6 TDi

Summary:

Excellent family estate

Faults:

Wheel bearing, exhaust, ABS, oil leak, water ingress to rear.

General Comments:

Dark grey Passat estate, good looking vehicle.

Spacious and comfortable, this car is perfect for family use. Seats are great, visibility is good. SE Tech is the spec to have.

Good to drive.

1.6 TDi is underpowered for this car's weight, but it is very economical. Would definitely buy another, but maybe with a bigger engine.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 27th July, 2023

29th Jul 2023, 05:34

A bit weird to think of this as an underpowered car. The smallest 2012 Passat engine in my geographic region was 2.0, not 1.6L. Could also get a Passat up to 280hp with its V6. Not really a snail of a car, so it’s weird to read this review. Would think it’d be somewhat sporty with a manual, even with the small engine in this review. Gotta work your way up into the rev range a bit more when accelerating perhaps, mate.

In reply to 29th Jul 2023, 05:34

29th Jul 2023, 23:47

It's a diesel. Even with the turbo, it will have the torque but not the swift acceleration of a bigger displacement engine. If it were the 2.0 TDI, it would be much improved for performance.

In reply to 29th Jul 2023, 05:34

30th Jul 2023, 17:34

I agree with the review. This is not a fast car. I have driven a 1.6 TDi Skoda Octavia 2012, basically the same engine in a slightly lighter hatchback car. It was slow also. I'd imagine in a heavier estate car it would be worse. It is an economical engine though, so it has that going for it.

2012 Volkswagen Passat Bluemotion Tech SE 2.0 TDi

Summary:

Pretty much an average car all things considered

Faults:

Clutch + flywheel failed at 110K (expensive repair).

Recently the air con won't work anymore. Have been quoted a ridiculous cost to repair it, so won't be bothering.

I carry out all the basic servicing and replaced any wear and tear parts as needed. Local garage is much cheaper than VW main dealers for this.

General Comments:

I like my Passat, but some repairs have been expensive. Overall it has been a good car.

2.0 TDi is exactly as you would expect from this generation - fast enough when required, very smooth and quiet on motorways. Economical, cheap tax and you will see well over 50 mpg on average.

The car looks great in silver but is a very common color. Good looking car this generation (2011 - 2014). Interior is black/grey, boring but functional. Very comfortable seats. Bluemotion Tech SE specification is well equipped. I would complain about that electronic handbrake as everyone does, and would also much prefer a lever.

Had it seven years and will trade it soon for a newer car, maybe a BMW 3 series. Don't know if I would buy another VW, good cars but a bit boring and expensive to run.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 19th September, 2022

20th Sep 2022, 11:25

A 3-series will at least be equally expensive to run, but is a slightly better car than the Passat.