2019 Volkswagen Beetle Pros vs Cons

The highly iconic Volkswagen Beetle will be saying goodbye after this year. On top of its unmistakable style, this vehicle will include many features that make it attractive to buyers. Is the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle a car worth buying? For many consumers, the answer is a definite yes. Others, however, may not be able to see past the few drawbacks of this vehicle.

What's New for 2019?

Since the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle will be the last of its kind, drivers will be able to choose a new Final Edition trim level. This trim will have unique exterior paint options that are similar to Beetles of the past. It will also have different wheels than the other trims, with either 18-inch alloy wheels with white trim or 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels that feature an iconic 15-spoke pattern.

The base level trim, known as the S, gets some upgrades in 2019. It now will feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, as well as keyless ignition. Potentially more important to some consumers is the addition of more standard safety features to this trim.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle – The Pros

1. Style Like No Other

Everyone recognizes a Volkswagen Beetle. The retro shape can be customized to fit an individual's personality. With a wide range of color options and an available rear spoiler, drivers can make the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle their own. The fact that each trim level comes in a coupe and convertible version opens up the options even further. One fun feature for the exterior styling this year is the available nickname badging. Consumers will have the option of choosing one of the many names this vehicle is known by from a wide variety of languages, making their Beetle even more fun and unique.

2. The Ride is Smooth

The build of the new 2019 Volkswagen Beetle makes it fun to drive. The suspension is nice and firm. Drivers will be pleasantly surprised at how responsive this vehicle is, despite the retro appearance. Volkswagen designed the suspension and body of their new Beetle for comfort and it shows.

3. Rear View Camera System

The Volkswagen Beetle's highly useful rear view camera is hidden beneath the iconic VW badge. Although rear view cameras are becoming more common, the Beetle's stands out due to its wide angle lens. This makes it easier than ever for drivers to see all of the potential obstacles in their path when they put their vehicle in reverse.

4. Fun and Functional Interior

Buyers of the new Beetle who want a combination of retro styling with modern convenience will not be disappointed. The retro-modern gauges are a fun touch. Another available retro feature is the Käferfach glovebox which really takes their interior of this vehicle back to a different era. Modern touches were not forgotten. Buyers can also choose to add ambient lighting that can be customized to suit their mood.

5. Bigger Engine with a Sport Mode

In 2019, the Beetle will enjoy a new, more powerful, standard engine across the trim levels. The turbocharged 2.0L TSI engine is not only fast and fun, but also smart. This is because it gives drivers an impressive fuel economy rating of 33 MPG on the highway. Paired with this engine is a 6-speed automatic transmission. This smooth transmission will give drivers nearly flawless acceleration and gear changes. Drivers who really want to take control and have some fun can drop their 2019 Volkswagen Beetle into Sport Mode. Overall, this setup will provide consumers with 174 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.

6. Cutting Edge Tech

Those with compatible smart devices will be able to simply plug them in to access Volkswagen's App-Connect feature. This will allow them to access and use certain apps on the Beetle's touchscreen. Available to drivers will also be Bluetooth technology that allows them to talk and text with friends as well as control their music. Speaking of music, the available Fender premium audio system can take listening to the next level. Complete with 400 watts of power, this system allows listeners to feel every beat.

7. Peace of Mind  

Available VW Car-Net Security & Service is a unique feature that can help a driver relax. It can answer those questions that drive people crazy throughout their day, such as if they remembered to lock their car or if they closed their sunroof before the rain started. It can even help people find where they parked. As a bonus, if it turns out a driver did forget to lock their car, they can fix that problem remotely with their smart device.

8. Driver Assistance Safety Features

The 2019 Volkswagen Beetle will come equipped with blind-spot monitoring standard. This system is designed to help drivers when they change lanes by detecting what they may not be able to see. The available park distance control can make life much easier for people when they are trying to get in or out of a parking space. An audio sensor alerts drivers when they get too close to an obstacle. To help further, the display shows the driver the positions of nearby obstacles. Backing out of a parking space can also be easier thanks to the available rear traffic alert which sounds when a vehicle crosses the Beetle's path while it is in reverse.

9. Comprehensive Stability Systems

There are an impressive seven different stability systems in the new 2019 Volkswagen Beetle. Despite the retro appearance, it has cutting edge safety technology such as electronic brake pressure distribution and electronic stability control. An automatic post-collision braking system is also included standard to minimize damage and injuries after an accident.

10. The Final Edition Trim Level

There are two trims of the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle that honor the fact that this is the vehicle's final year. They are the Final Edition SE and the Final Edition SEL. Many of the available features discussed above come standard on these top-of-the-line trims. The Final Edition SEL is particularly well-equipped. It features a 6.3" touchscreen navigation system as well as leather seats that feature an iconic diamond-stitch design.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle – The Cons

1. Tight Interior Space

While the driver and front passenger will find they have ample room, this is not the case in the backseat. Passengers back there will find both the leg and headroom to be quite cramped. The headroom issue is less significant for drivers of a convertible version of the Beetle, provided the weather cooperates. All in all, this may not be the right choice for people who carpool or who have older children.

2. Missing Active Safety Tech Features

Although the new Beetle has more active safety tech features than before, it is still lagging a bit behind its competitors in this area. Drivers who want to take advantage of cutting-edge features such as adaptive cruise control or rain-sensing windshield wipers will have to look elsewhere.

3. Limited Cargo Space

With the backseats up in a coupe Beetle, drivers will find only 15.4 cubic feet of cargo space. Folding these seats down gets this number up to 29.2 cubic feet, which may or may not be enough for drivers. Those who have their hearts set on a Volkswagen hatchback but need more space may want to check out the Golf.

4. Outdated Interior Materials

Perhaps the most disappointing thing about the new Beetle is some of the materials chosen to go on the inside. Unlike most of Volkswagen's other vehicles, the 2019 Beetle will still feature quite a bit of plastic on the inside. While for some this may add to the retro appeal, others might find it feels a bit cheap and simply aged.

How it Stacks Up Against the Competition

Drivers looking for smaller commuter cars may also consider the new Fiat 500 or Mini Cooper. However, many consumers will find they prefer the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle due to its softer ride and a quieter interior. They will also enjoy the price tag of the Beetle, which is typically much smaller than that of a new Mini Cooper. The Honda Civic and Elantra GT are also options in the same class, but both are lacking the fun and iconic style that the Beetle offers to drivers.

Conclusion

Overall, buying a new 2019 Volkswagen Beetle offers drivers a chance to own part of history as it is the final year for the vehicle. The fun that is obvious on the exterior carries into the interior, making it a joy to drive. It may not be the ideal choice for people needing a lot of backseat or cargo space. Still, the 2019 Beetle has much to offer to a wide range of consumers.