Pros: Unique retro looks; good build quality; availability of economical diesel engine; peppy acceleration; availability of slick, stylish convertible body style
Cons: Swoopy styling takes precedence over ergonomics; pricier than similarly equipped Golfs and Jettas; cramped back seat
CG Says: For 2015, Volkswagen’s iconic retro-style hatchback and convertible get a new Classic trim level and TDI models get a new, more economical 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine. This Beetle is just as style-driven as the New Beetle was, but it’s also more practical in everyday terms, feels more substantial, and is arguably better to drive. Trouble is, it costs a fair bit more than a comparably equipped version of the related Golf or Jetta, which offer many of the same virtues, plus far better rear-seat and cargo room. So what we have here is another nostalgia trip that makes sense if you love the styling, can accept the compromises that go with it, and are willing to pay for the privilege.
| Class | Sporty/Performance Car |
| Body Style(s) | 2-door hatchback coupe, 2-door convertible |
| Passenger Count | 4 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen |
| Nation of Manufacture | Mexico |
| Base Prices | 1.8T Classic coupe: $20,195 1.8T coupe: $20,695 1.8T convertible: $25,595 1.8T Classic convertible: $25,995 TDI coupe: $24,795 TDI convertible: $29,095 R-Line coupe: $25,450 R-Line convertible: $29,895 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 1.8-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 170 |
| Std. Transmission 5-speed manual |
| Avail. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 24-25 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 32-33 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (R-Line) |
| Horsepower 210 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed manual |
| Avail. Transmission 6-speed automated manual |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 23-24 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 30-31 |
| Optional Engine turbodiesel 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 150 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed manual |
| Avail. Transmission 6-speed automated manual |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 31 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 41 |
