VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE HATCHBACK REVIEW

For This modern slant on a classic has managed to capture some of the spirit of the original. It's superbly made, attractively trimmed, well equipped and fun to own.

Against The engines and chassis are merely average, and the drive is a long way from being inspiring. Practicality, particularly rear accommodation, has suffered in the interests of style, and the running costs are quite high.

What Car? says

2 out of 5 stars

You buy a Beetle for its style, not for the driving experience or the practicality. That's just as well.

Reader review rating

3.259259

The Volkswagen Beetle Hatchback full review Read in full

Performance
2 out of 5 stars
A statement of style not speed
Ride & Handling
2 out of 5 stars
Decent ride but so-so handling
Refinement
3 out of 5 stars
Quiet and undemanding - unless driven hard
Buying & Owning
3 out of 5 stars
More to insure, service and fuel than a Golf
Quality & Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Built to last
Safety & Security
4 out of 5 stars
Most of what you'd expect
Behind The Wheel
2 out of 5 stars
Driving position and visibility aren't great
Space & Practicality
2 out of 5 stars
Cramped rear seats and small boot
Equipment
3 out of 5 stars
Could be more generous

Or view…

There are 5 Volkswagen Beetle versions available

Volkswagen Beetle Hatchback 1.4 Luna 3dr	£13,345	What Car? says:2 stars out of 5
Volkswagen Beetle Hatchback 1.6 Luna 3dr	£14,420	What Car? says:2 stars out of 5
Volkswagen Beetle Hatchback 1.9 TDi 3dr	£17,110	What Car? says:2 stars out of 5
Volkswagen Beetle Hatchback 2.0 3dr	£17,495	What Car? says:2 stars out of 5
Volkswagen Beetle Hatchback 1.8T 3dr	£18,715	What Car? says:2 stars out of 5

Volkswagen Beetle Hatchback 1.6 Luna 3dr

The 1.6-litre Luna model might make the most sense financially, but it shares all the compromises of its siblings. Practicality is lacking and it’s not much fun to drive.

What Car? says:2 stars out of 5

Read review

Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

This modern interpretation of the iconic Beetle caused a sensation when it was first shown in concept form, so Volkswagen just had to build it.

In all but looks, it’s completely different to its old relative, the modern Beetle being based on the underpinnings of the Golf. That means it's front-engined, front-wheel-drive, and the luggage space is where it should be.

Its interior and boot are hugely compromised to recreate the original Beetle’s shape, but buyers don’t buy a Beetle with practicality in mind. Instead, it’s bought by people wanting something a bit different, and there’s no denying that the Beetle has lots of character. It’s also well built, nicely detailed inside and well equipped – with plenty of safety kit as standard.

The wide range starts with a 1.4-litre model that allows an affordable entry-level price, while the cabriolet brings genuine four-seater drop-top motoring. It's not for everyone, then, but those who want it will love it.