Ten years ago, if you asked me “Are Volkswagen Beetles Good Cars?”, my answer would have been heavily biased towards the negative. However, after recently driving the latest version, I was quickly reminded of how surprisingly decent they are. I experienced firsthand that the Volkswagen Beetle is actually kind of quick, and unexpectedly comfortable for long drives. Plus, the visibility is remarkably good.
On the flip side, let’s be honest, it’s not the most conventionally attractive car. Personally, I even felt a bit less masculine driving it, though that’s definitely a “me” problem I need to address. Despite my initial reservations, the thought of owning a Beetle as a daily driver has actually crossed my mind. It’s surprising, because I didn’t expect to like it as much as I did.
The Beetle is arguably the most uniquely styled car I’ve ever considered owning. It’s funny how perspectives change as you get older!
Delving into the Pros and Cons of the Volkswagen Beetle
Seriously, the Beetle is a significantly better car than many people give it credit for. The following list of Volkswagen Beetle pros and cons is based on my recent experience driving the model shown in these pictures – a 2018 dark gray Beetle.
Volkswagen Beetle Pros
- Excellent Night Driving Visibility: The Beetle makes driving at night exceptionally easy. The dashboard features a red backlight, which works harmoniously with the generously sized gauge cluster, reducing eye strain and enhancing visibility in low-light conditions.
- Peppy and Responsive Engine: The 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder engine is surprisingly energetic. Throttle response is excellent, making it genuinely fun to drive around town, darting from stoplight to stoplight – traffic permitting, of course. This engine provides a zippy and engaging driving experience, defying expectations for a car in its class.
- Surprisingly Comfortable for Road Trips: After nearly 500 miles of highway driving over four days, I was genuinely impressed by how quiet and smooth the Volkswagen Beetle is on the open road. It handles long distances with unexpected composure, making it a comfortable cruiser for extended journeys.
- Supportive Front Seats: Speaking of comfort, the front seats offer more support than they initially appear. Even after those 500 miles, I didn’t feel stiff or hunched over, which is a significant factor as I get older. The seats are well-designed for longer drives, providing adequate lumbar and side support.
- Minimal Blind Spots: Blind spots are minimal, which isn’t surprising given its upright, bubble-like shape and large windows. Essentially, the Beetle’s design offers excellent all-around visibility, making lane changes and navigating traffic much easier and safer.
- Industrial-Strength Air Conditioning: The air conditioning felt incredibly powerful, like an industrial-strength freezer. In an era of rising global temperatures, having ice-cold AC is a definite and significant advantage, especially in warmer climates.
- Spacious Front Seating Area: The front seat area feels remarkably roomy and spacious. The dashboard seems far away, and the low center console doesn’t obstruct movement between the driver and passenger seats, contributing to an open and airy feel.
You might wrinkle your nose (I know I did before actually sitting in one), but the front seats in the Beetle are genuinely comfortable.
I know I’m still technically in the “pros” section of this review, but honestly, this thing is undeniably quirky-looking. Yet, I find myself liking it!
Volkswagen Beetle Cons
- Mediocre Gas Mileage: Fuel economy wasn’t particularly impressive. While my tendency to accelerate enthusiastically from every stoplight likely contributed, I only managed to get around 19 miles per gallon on the highway. For those prioritizing fuel efficiency, this could be a significant drawback.
- Polarizing Styling: “It’s ugly” – Looks are subjective, I understand. Anyone drawn to a quirky and distinctive-looking car might not see this as a con. However, the Beetle’s appearance is unlike anything else on the road, and its standout styling might not appeal to everyone. Its unique look can be both a pro and a con, depending on personal taste.
- Questionable Build Quality: Having driven two recent Beetles (a 2018 and a 2019), both exhibited noticeable rattling, reminiscent of an older, less refined vehicle. This rattling is excessively annoying and suggests potential concerns about long-term durability and assembly quality.
- Limited Storage Space: The Beetle is smaller than it appears. We struggled to fit two full-size suitcases in the trunk. For those needing ample cargo capacity, the Beetle’s limited storage might be a deal-breaker.
- Cramped Rear Seats: Rear seat space is limited. Furthermore, accessing those seats is difficult because the front seats don’t slide forward very much. Rear passenger comfort and accessibility are definitely compromised in the Beetle.
- Discontinued Production & Parts Concerns: Volkswagen stopped producing the Beetle after the 2019 model year. Consequently, parts and service are likely to become more expensive and harder to find as time goes on. This poses a long-term ownership consideration regarding maintenance and repair costs.
- Image and Perception: The Beetle carries a reputation for being “not so manly.” While this is a subjective and potentially outdated stereotype, it’s worth acknowledging that some might perceive the Beetle as less masculine, which could influence buyer decisions based on personal image and preferences.
I’m not sure how we managed it, but we somehow crammed two full-size suitcases in the back. This definitely isn’t the car for anyone needing to discreetly transport large items.
You can almost hear the plastic rattling just by looking at this picture.
Did I mention it’s quirky-looking?
Compelling Reasons to Consider Buying a Volkswagen Beetle
Make no mistake, the Beetle is genuinely a fun and charming little car. It’s hard to find significant reasons why it wouldn’t be a good daily driver for many individuals. If you’re still undecided, here are two strong reasons why you should consider buying a Volkswagen Beetle:
1. Stand Out from the Crowd
Yes, I’ve called it quirky multiple times, but that’s just my personal take. The undeniable truth is the Beetle has a very distinctive appearance, perfect for drivers who prefer to be different. Volkswagen produced a limited number of Beetles in its final two model years (just 31,626 combined), making it relatively rare, especially compared to mainstream cars like a Kia Forte. If you value individuality and driving something unique, the Beetle is an excellent choice.
Looks are subjective, I know, and there’s definitely something appealing about its unique styling. I still find it quirky though.
2. A Great Daily Driver for Singles or Couples
The Beetle offers excellent outward visibility, supportive front seats, and performs well as a highway cruiser. If you don’t regularly need to haul a lot of cargo (or kids!), it serves perfectly as a unique and enjoyable vehicle for commuting and getting around. For singles or couples prioritizing comfort and ease of driving, the Beetle is a surprisingly practical and fun option.
Yes, the interior is also a bit unconventional, but I could definitely live with it as a daily driver, I think.
Key Reasons Why a Volkswagen Beetle Might Not Be For You
While I believe the Beetle is a great car for many people, it’s certainly not universally suitable. Here are two specific reasons why you might want to steer clear of the Volkswagen Beetle:
1. Not Ideal as a Family Car
The rear cargo area is simply too small for family needs, like grocery shopping trips. Furthermore, installing a car seat and buckling in a baby in the back seats is a real challenge. Even older children who don’t need car seats will find the rear seats cramped and uncomfortable, and they’ll likely voice their complaints throughout every journey. For families, the Beetle’s practicality limitations make it a less than ideal choice.
FYI, that’s my wife looking stressed about the lack of space for our belongings.
2. Potential Stereotypes and Misconceptions
Just as driving a lifted diesel truck with an American flag might stereotype you, owning a Volkswagen Beetle (regardless of the model year) can lead to assumptions about your personality and beliefs. Some might perceive Beetle drivers in certain ways, even if those stereotypes don’t align with reality. While these perceptions are unfair, they are something to consider if you are concerned about how your car might be interpreted by others.
Yup. It’s pretty much the anti-conventional car.
