Avoid DSG, though the 6 speed wet clutch DSG fitted to 2.0 TDI (that require maintenance every 3 years) are better than the 7 speed dry clutch DSG that is supposed to be maintenance free. A 2012 will be the old shape Octavia and will have the EA189 engine that is subject to a software recall next year. Same goes for the 2012 Passat. The Passat was vastly improved in its 2011 facelift and is a bigger, more impressive car than the 2004-2012 Octavia, but had more than its fair share of problems, especially with the electric parking brakes. Avoid the 170PS. More power means more trouble.