Overview
So you want a retro-styled car but with a host of modern amenities and comforts? Well, you’re in luck. The Volkswagen Beetle is just the car you’re looking for. Sporting an unmistakable design that’s heavily inspired by its classic 1960s relative, the latest Beetle is no stranger to attention, but when you consider it also packs tech-savvy advancements and turbocharged performance, the attention comes as no surprise.
Starting at $19,995,* the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle is available in seven trim levels ranging from the base 1.8T S to the top-of-the-line 2.0T R-Line SEL. The big news for 2017 is the limited-edition #PinkBeetle, which is fairly self-explanatory. With so many options, it’s easy to find a Beetle that fits your unique style.
The Perfect Ride for…
Drivers on the hunt for a retro-themed hatchback with 21st-century convenience. The Beetle has won generations of fans the world over and only continues to get better. Volkswagen's latest touchscreen interface is standard, while all but the 1.8T S base model get the latest VW Car-Net® Connect smartphone connectivity features.
Drive & Handling
The 2017 Beetle has two engines to choose from, starting with a peppy 1.8-liter (1.8T) turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 170 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual is standard and is sure to please purists, while a six-speed automatic is available for those happy to relinquish a little control. Each transmission provides excellent acceleration, with quick and precise shifting a trait shared by both.
The 1.8-liter Beetle is available as a coupe or convertible. However, for that wind-in-your-hair experience, your only option is the six-speed automatic.
Next up is the Beetle R-Line, which sports a 2.0-liter four-cylinder under the hood. Total output is rated at 210 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. Here, we find a standard six-speed automated manual (DSG) transmission that behaves a lot like your standard automatic but that is more responsive, providing much of the performance and control of a manual.
Key Features
Retro Appeal
Getting behind the wheel of the Volkswagen Beetle is like taking a step back in time with vintage details such as a Käferfach glovebox, retro gauges, and available imitation-leather upholstery. However, there’s a distinctly modern feel to some of the Beetle’s design touches, such as the available color-adjustable ambient interior lighting.
VW Car-Net® App-Connect
Standard on the 1.8T Classic, VW Car-Net smartphone integration lets you pair your mobile device with Android Auto™ or Apple CarPlay™ and access select apps through the touchscreen display of your Beetle. From navigation to messaging to music, App-Connect streamlines your driving experience—and makes it a heck of a lot more fun.
Alternative Options
While the Beetle is notable for value and timeless appeal, the Volkswagen Golf family offers plenty of options for drivers with more targeted tastes. The original Golf shows off a more upscale European design with an impressive list of features, while the Golf GTI and Golf R emphasize hot-blooded performance. Click below to schedule your test drive of any of these Volkswagen models at 3Birds Template.
Gallery
*Prices exclude transportation, taxes, title, other options and dealer charges. Dealer sets actual price.
Image Credit: [OEM]
