Thinking of buying a used Volkswagen Beetle?
If you're thinking of buying or financing a used Volkswagen Beetle, we answer any questions you might have below.
The style of the car
Available as a three-door hatchback or two-door convertible, the Beetle is full of retro charm. It’s relatively compact yet those up front have lots of space. Long and wide-opening doors make access easy. Back seat space is fine, but there are more practical choices as a family car. The large hatchback boot lid makes loading luggage easy. The Dune version has a raised ride height that gives the Beetle a more rugged look and makes it a bit better suited to any bumpy tracks you choose to tackle.
How it drives
The VW Beetle is based on a previous version of the Golf hatchback, so it’s good to drive. You can lower the convertible’s fabric roof in seconds for wind-in-the-hair thrills and both it and the hatchback are relaxing on long journeys, thanks to soft suspension and responsive engines. Compact dimensions mean it’s easy to drive around town and the optional DSG automatic gearbox makes life easier in stop-start traffic. The optional park assist function, which controls the steering to guide you into a space, is worth seeking out.
The interior
The Beetle is roughly the same size as the VW Golf that it’s based on. It has four seats, with large side doors giving you good access to the rear pair. Legroom and headroom are good in the front and better than you might think in the back. The Beetle’s 310-litre boot is bigger than the MINI hatchback’s and can fit a couple of medium-sized suitcases and a pushchair. Folding the back seats allows you to load longer items. The convertible’s boot is smaller, at 225 litres, but that’s still enough for two small suitcases for a weekend away. Overall the Beetle is well equipped, with the entry-level car getting Bluetooth, DAB radio and air con. Design trim features a touchscreen infotainment system and climate control, while Sport, R Line and Dune trims add sports seats.
Running costs and reliability
Pricing for the Beetle is similar to rivals such as the MINI and Fiat 500, but it generally has more standard equipment. The VW’s efficient engines are cost-effective to run, with the diesels being best for drivers who cover more than 12,000 miles a year. Tax and insurance costs are competitive. Volkswagen has a good reputation for quality and reliability, while the Beetle scored a five-star rating when tested by independent safety organisation Euro NCAP in 2011.
How it compares with similar cars
The Beetle is a similar size to the Volkswagen Golf, but has a slightly smaller interior and only seats four. The three-door Volkswagen Scirocco coupe offers the same kind of practicality as the Beetle but it’s a sleeker, sportier option. The Beetle is more practical than the Mini three-door hatchback and the Fiat 500.
