2019 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T SEL Final Edition
An Automotive Love Affair
By Joseph Mavilia
Overview:
This is the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T SEL Final Edition. Hearts are breaking all over the country. Final Edition. . . Well maybe it will come back.
The only explanation I can find is that it wasn’t selling well enough to VW’s liking. Business is business and if it isn’t profitable discontinuing the bug is understandable. What I cannot believe, however, is that not enough people liked it. OR, maybe it was too fancied up and the cost became unattractive for a small car. I believe it is better than the competition
General Information: It is assembled in – Puebla, Mexico; Parts -US/Canadian 9%, Mexico 33%; Other 43%, Engine – Mexico, Transmission – Japan; ; Classification is Compact; Cars from Volkswagen: Atlas, Beetle, Golf, Golf Alltrack, Golf Gti, Golf R, Golf Sportswagen, Jetta, Passat, Tiguan & Touareg.
Handling & Performance:
The Beetle really turned out to be a solid performer. Fast, comfortable and great handling.
Styling:
Classic car status
Fit and Finish:
It may have been too good. All the VW’s I owned (3) were in fact vintage cars and I appreciated the bare necessities transportation. It reminds me of the Restaurant business. Whenever you’re doing great it is likely best not to change. I’ve seen it over and over again that when the ambiance changes it is off-putting to consumers.
Cost:
I guess more than people were willing to pay.
Conveniences and comfort:
Outstanding ride. The test vehicle had cruise control, but I understand they don’t offer “Smart Cruise” control, which is my favorite feature and becoming more common for most manufacturers.
Consumer Recommendations:
Some will dissuade you, but I would say, don’t give up or shy away. VW isn’t going anywhere any time soon and they stand behind what they build.
Recognized Competition:
| Brand | $$$ Cost | MPG Avg | Seating | Doors | Drive | Country/ Origin |
Assembled |
| VW Beetle | 26,000 | 29 | 4 | 2 | FWD | Germany | Mexico |
| MINI | 26,000 | 28 | 5 | 4 | FWD | Germany | UK |
| Fiat 500 | 21,000 | 30 | 4 | 2 | FWD | Italy | Mexico |
| Ford Fiesta | 22,000 | 28 | 5 | 4 | FWD | USA | Mexico |
Good News:
German/American icon with great track record, good fuel economy, powerful Turbo acceleration, , very good standard features.
Bad News:
Final Version as promised last year.
Standard Equipment:
2.0 liter turbo 4-cylinder engine with direct fuel injection, front wheel drive, 4-wheel independent suspension, front, 6 airbags, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, engine brake assist, anti-slip regulation (traction control), electronic brake force distribution, stability control, intelligent crash response system, LATCH system, tire pressure monitoring, rear view camera system, 18” alloy wheels, auto by-Xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, fog lights with low speed cornering lights, heated foldable power mirrors with turn signals, rain sensing intermittent wipers with heated washer nozzles, power tilt and slide sunroof, dual zone climate control, leather wrapped multi-function steering wheel, tilt / telescopic steering column, power tilt and sliding sunroof, front heated 8-way manual adjusting seats, 2nd row 50/50 split folding seats, leatherette seating, final edition features including diamond stitched leather seating, stainless steel pedal cluster, metal door sill scuff plates. Park distance control front and rear, blind spot monitor and rear traffic alert, keyless access with push button start, 6.3” touch screen navigation system, multi band radio & CD player, dual USB inputs, auxiliary, voice control, Fender audio system with subwoofer, Bluetooth connectivity, Sirius XM satellite radio, Cruise control.
Gas Stats:
$3.15/ Gal avg. March 6, 2019
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.
Pricing:
MSRP $25,995.
Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@autolove.com
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