Dating back almost 90 years, the Volkswagen Beetle is undoubtedly the world’s most famous car. Although it was designed in the 1930’s, World War II delayed production until the late 1940’s, when it was built in great numbers as a two-door, rear engine economy car. It made a big return in 1997, breaking the mould with a large, front-engine heavy car, a million miles from the original. But, it’s been popular with millions being sold globally. The 2019 Volkswagen Beetle carries most of the iconic style but with a modern twist and still represents excellent value for money.
UNIQUE EXTERIOR
Some may consider it strange that 90 years later you can still recognize this vehicle as a Beetle! The 2019 VW Beetle still features the iconic circular headlamps, rounded roofline and wide wheel arches. However, the 2019 Beetle is longer than ever at 4.3 meters – in fact it’s the same length as a 2019 VW Golf!
A mid-level rear spoiler breaks up the sweeping lines at the rear of the car and a high waistline combined with the long door panels give the 2019 Beetle a traditional yet modern look. Basic models come equipped with 17 inch wheels while the higher trim level models come with 18 inch alloy wheels making the side profile of the car more aesthetically pleasing.
ELEGANT INTERIOR
The 2019 Beetle has a simple, yet practical and contemporary interior. Volkswagen has made sure it has not over complicated the dash with buttons and switches. The dash features a glossy panel spanning the full width of the interior and can be colour-matched to the exterior or interior colour. The circular vents, speakers and other circular design elements all follow the cues from the exterior design and come together to create a new Beetle experience.
The driver’s panel features one large analogue dial as a speedometer and a slim steering wheel, accompanied by a display offering all the functions you would normally need such as your entertainment settings and trip computer.
A new range of interior trims is now available, including a checked cloth or a number of soft leather options including a ‘curry’ piping. The cross stitching in the leather really helps to tie in a number of the design elements to showcase the 2019 VW Beetle as a modern version of the iconic bug of the past.
PERFORMANCE AND DRIVE
Volkswagen’s standard 2.0L four cylinder gas engine is used to power the Beetle, producing 174hp. While the 2019 Beetle is not designed to win any races, this engine is more than adequate for daily driving. The transmission features a 6-speed automatic with tiptronic, for those who like to change gears manually.
While you shouldn’t expect a performance-oriented drive, like you would in a 2019 VW Golf for example, the 2019 Beetle offers a comfortable and fun experience, which is really what ‘Bug’ buyers are looking for. The lower powered engine does however provide some solid fuel economy with ratings of 7.1 L/100km on the highway and 9.0 L/100km in the city.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The 2019 Beetle is a fashionable and iconic car to be seen in and comes with good line up of standard equipment, which makes it great value for money. Starting at only $24,475, the new 2019 Beetle is hard to beat when it comes to a unique and iconic vehicle that has been improved with modern technology, comforts and conveniences.
