2018 Volkswagen Beetle
A$26,790 2.0T Dune s one of the more iconic designs in Volkswagen’s lineup, the Beetle could be in for big driveline changes at some 174 HP 2.0t point in the future, potentially becoming a fully electric vehicle. For now, though, the 2018 Beetle remains the simplistic, stylish compact that customers have become acquainted with over the past two decades.
The 2018 Beetle comes in either a coupe or a convertible body style and is available in four trims: S, Coast, SE, and Dune. All 2018 Beetle models feature a turbocharged, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine generating 174 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shift capability.
New for 2018, Volkswagen adds more standard features to existing trims, while at the same time expanding the trim lineup and option packages for greater appeal.
New Coast trim features unique color options, interior materials, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert system, as well as an optional lighting package including LED daytime running lights, taillights, and license plate lights
6-speed automatic transmission with manual shifting now standard on all trims
Style & Comfort Package available for S trim, includes 6.3-inch infotainment display, SiriusXM satellite radio, automatic headlights, auto-dimming mirror, rainsensing wipers, and more
SE trim gains several new standard features, such as dual-zone automatic climate control, chrome exterior window trim, panoramic sunroof, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert system
New Premium Package for SE trim includes exclusive wheels, front and rear parking assist, l6.3-inch infotainment system with navigation, Fender premium audio system, bi-xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, taillights, fog lights, and license plate lights
Dune trim receives new standard features, including bi-xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, taillights, and license plate lights, as well as dual-zone automatic climate control, Fender premium audio system, and keyless entry with push-button start
Warranty coverage extended to 6 years or 72,000 miles, whichever occurs first
Although the 2018 Volkswagen Beetle carries a classic name and a design inspired by the original Beetle, nostalgia ultimately isn’t enough to make it an appealing choice in a competitive compact vehicle market.
It’s hard to choose the Beetle over cars such as the Mini Cooper, which offers nearly countless configurations — even a convertible. If you’re sold on the Beetle’s design, it may be a choice worth looking into, but we’d personally wait to see what the future holds for the Beetle, especially considering the possibility of it becoming a fully electric vehicle.