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For The Volkswagen Beetle is reasonable to drive and there are some fine engines to pick from. There’s plenty of head and elbow space up front and those large side windows flood the cabin with light.

Against The rear seats are cramped and some of the interior materials feel disappointingly cheap. The low-speed ride is firm, too.

Volkswagen Beetle Hatchback
33 5stars

The VW Beetle is not the most engaging car to drive but that’s hardly likely to bother fans of its classic retro styling. What may bother them, however, are the unsettled low speed ride and the cramped rear seats

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The full Volkswagen Beetle review


There are 9 Volkswagen Beetle versions available

Hatchback 1.2 TSI 105 3dr £15,515
What Car? says:3 stars out of 5
Hatchback 1.6 TDI 105 BlueMotion Tech. 3dr £17,345 TBA
Hatchback 1.2 TSI 105 Design 3dr £17,910
What Car? says:3 stars out of 5
Hatchback 1.2 TSI 105 Design DSG 3dr £19,370
What Car? says:3 stars out of 5
Hatchback 1.6 TDI 105 Design BlueMotion 3dr £19,720 TBA
Hatchback 1.4 TSI 160 Design 3dr £19,945
What Car? says:3 stars out of 5
Hatchback 2.0 TDI 140 Design 3dr £20,420
What Car? says:3 stars out of 5
Hatchback 1.4 TSI 160 Sport 3dr £21,765
What Car? says:3 stars out of 5
Hatchback 2.0 TDI 140 Sport 3dr £22,240
What Car? says:3 stars out of 5

Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

You have the choice of three turbocharged petrol engines – a 103bhp 1.2, a 158bhp 1.4 and the top-of-the-range 197bhp 2.0 TSI model. You can also choose from two diesels, a 103bhp 1.6 and a 138bhp 2.0.

True, the Beetle isn’t as practical, as good to drive or as classily finished as its more sensible sibling, the Golf, but it’s still a decent car. Factor in its undeniable charm and many will be prepared to put up with a few shortcomings.

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Volkswagen Beetle Hatchback

Read the definitive Volkswagen Beetle Hatchback review from the expert What Car? team. Check specs, prices and compare with similar cars.

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