2017 Volkswagen Beetle Expert Review
Reviewed by Stefan Ogbac
A new limited-edition model called the #PinkBeetle comes with a special exterior paint Fresh Fuchsia Metallic. Additional standard features on the #PinkBeetle include HID headlights, a 6.3-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, rearview camera, and 17-inch alloy wheels.
Vehicle Summary
Volkswagen's most easily identified model, the iconic Beetle is the only vehicle in Volkswagen's lineup to be available as a convertible with the death of the Eos. The four-seat convertible is joined in the lineup by a four-seat coupe.
Overview
Most 2017 Beetles will be equipped with a 1.8-liter turbo-four with 170 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission is available on the base 1.8-liter and fuel economy is rated at 25/34 mpg city/highway regardless of the body style. Should you need more power, there's a 2.0-liter turbo-four in the R-Line trim with 210 hp and 207 lb-ft.A six-speed manual is standard while a six-speed twin-clutch automatic transmission is available. Fuel economy ratings for the 2.0-liter turbo-four is 23/31 mpg to 24/31 mpg depending on the body style and transmission choice. Volkswagen added a new infotainment system with a 6.3-inch touchscreen that comes standard with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and navigation is available on higher trim levels.
The Beetle Dune is essentially a Beetle hatch or convertible with a bit more ground clearance and cool wheels. However, it's only available with the 170-hp 1.8-liter turbo-four paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is rated at 24/31 mpg.
Safety
The 2017 Beetle has a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA (out of a possible five stars). In IIHS testing, the Beetle received a Good rating on all but the small overlap front test where it received a Marginal score (Good is the highest possible score). Blind spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and Park Pilot are available on higher trim levels. Autonomous emergency braking and forward collision warning are currently not available in the Beetle lineup.
What We Think
When the 210-hp Beetle R-Line is equipped with the standard six-speed manual, the car is fun to drive. However, because of excessive body roll and less aggressive brakes, it falls short of its stablemate, the Golf GTI.
The Beetle Dune, however, drives comfortably on pavement and the 1.8-liter turbo-four has enough power to get things moving without issues, with less turbo lag. Steering feel is lacking and brakes aren't as responsive as they could be, requiring more force to get your desired brake force.
Cool Fact
The special-edition #PinkBeetle is the first Beetle to ever receive a pink exterior color straight out of the factory.
Key Competitors
- Fiat 500
- Mini Hardtop
- Kia Soul
- Hyundai Veloster
- Nissan Juke
