Volkswagen Golf 1.2 TSI (DSG) Review: A new game of Golf

What we like:

Sleek looking

quality interior

and the ever-amazing low torque range of Volkswagen

What we dislike:

Feels a little overworked when overtaking

lack of gadgets and features

Perhaps the main difference between the 1.4 variants and the Golf 1.2 would be the engine. With an all-new turbocharged 1,197 cc plant beneath its hood, I was impressed with the output and performance of the Golf 1.2.

While the Golf 1.2, standing at 105 horses, may seem short of what any other 1.6 litre sedan could offer, it makes up for it by delivering 175 Nm of torque starting from as low as 1,400 rpm. This allowed me to propel myself way ahead of most entry-level sedans on the road.

Completing its century sprint in just slightly above 10 seconds, the 7-speed DSG gearbox provides you with a much-refined and smooth drive, whether you are cruising down the bumpy KPE or even maneuvering the ever-famous South Buona Vista bends.

The 1.2 engine may seem a little slow when overtaking, but this can be easily solved with a heavier foot on the accelerator, where the engine roars to life and brings you up to your desired speed. It does, however, tend to drag on the 2nd and 3rd gear, but once past that stage, you enjoy the smoothness and silent power of this amazingly turbocharged engine. And not to worry, similar to its 1.4 siblings, the Golf 1.2 takes on high speeds pretty comfortably too.

You may feel that the number of different Golfs available in the market now could prove confusing to those interested, but really, there isn’t much confusion to be worried about. While the 1.4 may provide you with the much desired power, the new Golf 1.2 delivers the level of excitement and standard which you won’t feel left out from the 1.4, at a cheaper price, no less.

While the Golf Sport may be able to provide you the luxury of gadgets and technology, the Golf 1.2, standing at $8,000 lesser than the base 1.4, comes in as one of the ideal choice when you’re looking for something that gives the combination of good looks, built quality, fuel efficiency, and perhaps power suitable for its class.

Credits: Story and Photos by Irwin Tan