What does it cost?
For It’s 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.
What Car? says
The 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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There are 8 Volkswagen Beetle versions available
Buyer's notes
Target Price team says:
When the new Beetle goes on sale in the spring of 2012, you’ll have the choice of two turbocharged petrol engines – a 103bhp 1.2 and a 158bhp 1.4. A 65mpg 1.6-litre diesel will arrive in the summer of the same year, shortly after the top-of-the-range 197bhp 2.0 TSI model. Eventually a 138bhp 2.0-litre diesel will join the line-up, too.
Exact specifications and prices have yet to be confirmed, although we do know that the entry-level 1.2 TSI model will start at roughly £15,500. That looks good value when you consider that an equivalent Golf costs around £1300 more.
True, the Beetle isn’t as practical, as good to drive or as classily finished as its more sensible sibling, but it’s still a decent car. Factor in its undeniable charm and many will be prepared to put up with a few shortcomings.
Range-topping models won’t be so keenly priced, though. Expect the 2.0 TSI model to cost roughly the same as VW’s more powerful Scirocco coupé and Golf GTI.
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Our pick of the range
Volkswagen Beetle Hatchback 1.4 TSI 160 Design 3dr
An appealing and charming car, but we reckon the sweet spot will lie elsewhere in the range.
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