2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T SE

2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T SE

An Automotive Love Affair
By Joe Mavilia

Overview:

This is the 2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T SE. I had heard the Beetle was going to be discontinued as a model. I was shocked. Can’t be, I thought. It is a lovely car with a rich history since the late 1930’s. I’ve owned several and they occupy a special place in my heart. They have indeed announced the line will be shut down in July 2019. Sad. One would have to assume it is because they are not being received well enough by consumers to continue them. Sad indeed, because it is impressive (not so small) car.

To me, if I were to give a car to my kids to go to college, I would consider a VW “Bug” or a Fiat 500 than most others. But I recognize that if sales are down and the consumer no longer supports this model, that is what counts in the final analysis. I’ll miss it and many others will not be able to experience the magic of the VW BUG.

General Information:

It is assembled in- Puebla, Mexico; Parts- US/Canadian 12%, Mexico 45%; 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:

A solid ride that handles well in all highway conditions. It is FAST and fabulously fun to drive. Engine brake assist is an engineering feature to prevent possible skidding when downshifting.

Styling:

Classic Volkswagen look that is unmistakable.

Fit and Finish:

Excellent, but of course that wasn’t always true, as with all early automotive products.

Cost:

Priced very well.

Conveniences and comfort:

Very well equipped. A super comfy ride. Recent experience was on the highway to and from San Diego area (from LA) where high winds and high speed combined for an impressive ride. As some will recall that was a deadly combination for 1960s models of the Beetle. They were very light, and the undercarriage was like a sail that could launch you from lane to lane under windy conditions. The Carmen Ghia, I owned, was the exception in design to make it more wind resistant.

Consumer Recommendations:

All the competition listed here are very good inexpensive transportation. VW and MINI are arguably the most stable performers but I also like the Fiat a lot which is a tough price competitor.

Recognized Competition:

Good News:

German/American icon with a great track record, good fuel economy, powerful Turbo acceleration, competitively priced.

Bad News:

Discontinuing the model in 2019.

Standard Equipment:

2.0 liter turbo 4-cylinder engine with direct fuel injection, 4-wheel independent suspension, front, side and side curtain 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, 17” alloy wheels, auto halogen headlights, LED daytime running lights, heated power mirrors, 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, front heated 8-way manual adjusting seats, 2nd row 50/50 split folding seats, leatherette seating, rear view camera, blind spot monitor and rear traffic alert, keyless access with push-button start, composition media 6.3” touch screen, multi-band radio & CD player, dual USB inputs, 8-speaker sound system, Sirius XM satellite radio, Cruise control.

Gas Stats:

$3.55/ Gal avg. November 12, 2018

www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.

26 City and 33 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $24,020.