Volkswagen Beetle

Manufacturer
Volkswagen

Model
Beetle

Segment/Specs
Hatchback

A cynical marketing exercise for stupid people or a lovely nod to the past and genuinely cute head-turner, depending on your point of view.

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Performance

1.4, 1.6 and 1.8 petrols and a 1.9 turbodiesel are available here. None feel quite right for the Beetle.

Driving

Good ride but the handling is questionable, with lots of body roll.

Feel

Engines can be noisy, but the Beetle is pretty well refined.

Price

Depreciation should be OK, running costs will be middling - though petrol mileages are poor.

Quality

Interior's decent and funky. Engines should be strong and reliable.

Safety

Four airbags, traction control and ABS are standard at base spec. Four NCAP stars.

Space

Space for four little ones and a small amount of luggage, though the rear seats do fold down.

Equipment

Alloys, CD player and remote central locking are standard. Chilled air and cow skin are more expensive.

Alternatives

MINI Cooper

Pros

Looks, arguably.

Cons

Expensive, impractical. Looks, arguably.

AVOID!

by Ben T. M. (Oxford) - 20/09/2005 13:28:10

First off, let me admit that I have never set foot in this car. In fact, I haven't even been near one, except that one time when I overtook this little old lady who was stranded on the side of the motorway in one. Let me tell you: Don't buy a Beetle. It is the ugliest car that was ever made. It looks like a big fat toad that was plonked down on the motorway, flattened a little, and had wheels attached. I'm not even sure if they should have bothered with the engine. It is so ugly, that you almost have to pity the people who decided to buy one. Please, Volkswagen, the original Beetle was amazing - why did you ruin it completely? When BMW stole the Mini name, at least they did a halfway decent job of it!

Do not avoid!

by John R Clemence (Glasgow) - 19/10/2005 15:55:45

I have always been a massive fan of the VW Beetle. I reckon ive had three now including the new shape that ive had for 6 months and i absolutely love it. I must admit to being a bit off the wall so i thaught id but a car that was like me..super cool! Anyway, runs like a dream and ive had no problems with it yet, and i dont excpect to either.