Larry H. Miller Volkswagen Avondale
2012 Volkswagen Golf R
Now available at Larry H. Miller Volkswagen Avondale in Avondale, AZ
- Starting MSRP$35,490
- Horsepower256 hp
- EPA MPG19 city / 27 hwy
- DrivetrainAll Wheel Drive

The 2012 Volkswagen Golf R brings 256 horsepower, all-wheel drive, and a six-speed manual transmission to a performance-focused hatchback format at Larry H. Miller Volkswagen Avondale in Avondale, AZ. This page covers the Golf R’s pricing, dimensions, engine configuration, fuel economy, cargo space, and comparisons with same-year alternatives, helping shoppers understand how it fits their driving priorities before exploring Volkswagen inventory and dealership resources in the Phoenix West Valley.
- Starting MSRP
- $35,490
- Horsepower
- 256 hp
- EPA MPG
- 19 city / 27 hwy
- Drivetrain
- All Wheel Drive
- Fuel
- Premium Unleaded (Recommended)
- Body Style
- Hatchback
How the 2012 Volkswagen Golf R Compares With Its Competitors
Pricing, power, efficiency, drivetrain, and fuel requirements can shape the right choice among compact performance-oriented cars. The 2012 Volkswagen Golf R has a starting MSRP of $35,490; MSRP excludes tax, title, registration and dealer fees.
| Spec | 2012 Volkswagen Golf R | 2012 Mazda Mazdaspeed 3 | 2012 Ford Focus | 2012 Kia Forte |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $35,490 | $24,000 | $22,700 | $19,600 |
| Horsepower | 256 hp | 263 hp | 160 hp | 173 hp |
| EPA MPG | 19 city / 27 hwy | — | 27 city / 37 hwy | — |
| Drivetrain | All Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
| Fuel | Premium Unleaded (Recommended) | Premium Unleaded (Required) | Flex-Fuel (Unleaded/E85) / Electric | Regular Unleaded |
Manufacturer figures for the model year shown; a range spans that model's trims. Starting MSRP excludes tax, title, registration, and dealer fees.
The 2012 Volkswagen Golf R starts at $35,490 with 256 horsepower, all-wheel drive, and premium unleaded recommended, while the 2012 Mazda Mazdaspeed 3 starts at $24,000 with 263 horsepower, front-wheel drive, and premium unleaded required. The Golf R favors buyers seeking all-wheel-drive traction, while the Mazdaspeed 3 favors shoppers focused on lower starting price and slightly higher quoted power.
The 2012 Volkswagen Golf R offers 256 horsepower, 19 city MPG, and 27 highway MPG with all-wheel drive, while the 2012 Ford Focus starts at $22,700 with 160 horsepower, 27 city MPG, 37 highway MPG, front-wheel drive, and Flex-Fuel (Unleaded/E85) / Electric fuel. The Golf R suits buyers prioritizing power and all-weather drivetrain capability, while the Focus favors shoppers emphasizing fuel economy, lower starting price, and flexible fuel options.
The 2012 Volkswagen Golf R starts at $35,490 and produces 256 horsepower with all-wheel drive and premium unleaded recommended, while the 2012 Kia Forte starts at $19,600 with 173 horsepower, front-wheel drive, and regular unleaded. The Golf R favors buyers seeking stronger performance and all-wheel-drive traction, while the Forte favors shoppers looking for a lower starting price and regular-fuel compatibility.
Specifications and Configuration
The 2012 Volkswagen Golf R comes in one trim, keeping the model’s configuration straightforward. Its 2.0-liter inline-four engine produces 256 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque, with peak power at 6,000 rpm and peak torque at 2,400 rpm.
A six-speed manual transmission sends power through an all-wheel-drive system. Premium unleaded is recommended, and the hatchback returns 19 city MPG and 27 highway MPG.
The Golf R measures 165.8 inches long, 70 inches wide, and 57.5 inches high, with a 101.5-inch wheelbase. It provides 14.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, while its 14.5-gallon fuel capacity supports longer stretches between fill-ups.
Buying a 2012 Volkswagen Golf R in Avondale
Larry H. Miller Volkswagen Avondale serves Avondale and the Phoenix West Valley, including Goodyear, Glendale, Peoria, Surprise, Buckeye, and Phoenix. The dealership is located at 10205 West Papago Freeway in Avondale, AZ 85323, just off I-10 in the Avondale Auto Mall.
Vehicle availability changes on a rolling basis, so shoppers can search inventory for current Volkswagen options and contact the dealership at (623) 400-7146 for assistance. Online tools also support trade-in planning through value your trade.
What to Weigh Before Buying
The Golf R’s one-trim approach simplifies the decision, but its performance-oriented configuration deserves a close look. Consider whether 256 horsepower, all-wheel drive, a manual transmission, premium unleaded, and the stated fuel economy align with daily driving habits.
Its hatchback body provides useful cargo flexibility within a compact footprint, while the 14.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats may matter for regular shopping, commuting, or weekend gear. Comparing power, drivetrain, fuel type, and starting MSRP with alternatives can help clarify which priorities matter most.