New for 2016
The Beetle lineup gets streamlined for the 2016 model year, with trim levels replacing the previous grouping of trims and packages. There's also a new lighting package as well as new color options for the fashion-minded Beetle driver. But perhaps the most exciting addition to the Beetle lineup is that Volkswagen's latest touchscreen interface is now standard, while all but the new 1.8T S base model get the new VW Car-Net-Connect smartphone connectivity features.
No Stranger to Attention
So you want a retro-styled car but with a host of modern amenities and comforts? Well, you’re in luck. The 2016 Volkswagen Beetle is just the car you’re looking for. Sporting an unmistakable design that’s heavily inspired by its classic 1960s relative, the latest Beetle is no stranger to attention, but when you consider it also packs tech-savvy advancements and turbocharged performance, the attention comes as no surprise.
Performance
The 2016 Beetle has two engines to choose from, starting with a peppy 1.8-liter (1.8T) turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 170 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual is standard and is sure to please purists, while a six-speed automatic is available for those happy to relinquish a little control. Each transmission provides excellent acceleration, with quick and precise shifting a trait shared by both.
The 1.8-liter Beetle is available as a coupe or convertible, however for that wind-in-your-hair experience, your only option is the six-speed automatic.
Next up is the Beetle R-Line, which sports a 2.0-liter four-cylinder under the hood. Total output is rated at 210 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. Here, we find a standard six-speed automated manual (DSG) transmission that behaves a lot like your standard automatic but that is more responsive, providing much of the performance and control of a manual.
Features
The Beetle is available in 1.8T and R-Line models that are futher broken down in S, SE, and SEL trim levels. With its array of trims and options, selecting a Beetle that meets your needs is simple, and made all the easier with an attractive starting MSRP of $19,795.*
The base S coupe is excellent value for the money, and comes standard with 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, and heated mirrors. Keyless entry, cruise control, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel are just a few of its many standout features. S models also come with an impressive array of tech features that include Bluetooth®, a five-inch touchscreen, and an eight-speaker sound system, complete with CD player, aux and audio jack, USB port, and a media player interface.
Beetle 1.8T SE models come handsomely equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, a rearview camera, heated front seats, and V-Tex premium vinyl upholstery. Meanwhile, three-color ambient lighting, a 6-inch touchscreen, and VW Car-Net smartphone features add an extra dose of convenience and comfort.
The R-Line SE shares a lot with the 1.8T SE but adds a sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels, foglights, and special exterior and interior styling elements.
Naturally, the 1.8T SEL builds on the 1.8T SE with 18-inch wheels of its own and a panoramic sunroof. The 1.8T SEL also benefits from added driver safety and convenience features, including a blind-spot warning system, navigation, keyless ignition/entry, and much more.
The R-Line SEL differs with 19-inch wheels, automatic bi-xenon headlights, LED running lights, leather upholstery, and a Fender® premium audio system.
For open top driving, the Beetle Convertible 1.8T S differs from its coupe counterpart with 17-inch wheels, a power-retractable roof, heated front seats, "V-Tex" upholstery and three-color ambient lighting. There is also an R-Line S convertible that adds the requisite performance and styling upgrades. The 1.8T SE and R-Line SE convertibles differ only from their coupe counterparts with the addition of keyless ignition and entry, while the 1.8T and R-Line SEL are identically equipped to their coupe counterparts.
Design
The Beetle has evolved over the years, but still retains that iconic (now retro) design of the past. While older models, and even as recently as the New Beetle, sported a far more flowery design (there was even a built-in vase in the dash!), the 2016 Beetle dispenses with the flower power for a beefier, sportier look.
Inside, the 2016 Beetle is spacious. Whether in convertible or coupe form, there is room for four, and seats are very comfortable, with enough support to ensure everything remains “groovy” even during longer trips.
Beyond that, the Beetle sports a clean cabin, with intuitive and easy-to-use controls. A center armrest makes long commutes more comfortable, while a plethora of storage bins happily accommodate keys, wallets, and mobile phones. There’s even an upper, secondary glove box that’s a clear throwback to old-school Beetle models.
Safety
You know what’s not groovy? Substandard safety. Thankfully, the 2016 Beetle dodges this hurdle with a comprehensive level of safety features. These include standard stability and traction control, antilock disc brakes, front side airbags, side curtain airbags, and Volkswagen’s own Car-Net telematics system.
Car-Net is especially useful. It bundles useful emergency services such as crash notification, roadside assistance, stolen vehicle location, remote door unlocking, and geo-fencing. Now that’s, like, totally far out.
Bottom Line
With an impressive array of powertrains and beefed-up retro styling, the 2016 Volkswagen Beetle combines form and function into one brilliant package. Whether as a coupe or a fun-and-sun-loving convertible, the Beetle is sure to put a smile on your face.
For more information, or to schedule a test drive, contact us online or visit Heritage Volkswagen Subaru at 9808 Reisterstown Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117.
*Starting MSRP of $19,795 for a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle S 1.8T with 6-speed automatic transmission. Prices exclude transportation, taxes, title, other options and dealer charges.
Image: Volkswagen
