Auto Guide
2019 Volkswagen Beetle
Used

Review and specifications

2019 Volkswagen Beetle

The 2012 redesigned Beetle has fewer compromises and a roomier cabin. It drives decently but suffers from cost-cutting measures. While the ride is compliant, it's a bit unsettled. Handling is responsive but not sporty, and it becomes sloppy in demanding conditions. The standard five-cylinder engine is punchy but sounds gruff and unrefined. We got a less-than-stellar 26 mpg overall with the five-speed manual transmission. Turbocharged gas and diesel 2.0-liter engines are also available. Rear visibility is limited and the long clutch pedal travel and wide center console compromise the driving position. For 2018, a 2.0-liter turbo became standard, and the manual transmission was dropped. Blind spot warning and rear cross traffic alert became standard on all trim lines for the 2019 model year--the Beetle’s final production run.

Market value
$17,963
Fuel
Conventional
Transmission
Automatic
Seats
4
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Model year 2019
Owner rating 4/5
Reliability 5/5
Data updated December 4, 2025

At a glance

Model data

Overview

Powertrain
Conventional
Body style
2-door hatchback
Drive type
FWD
Transmission
Automatic, 6-speed
Category
Small sedans/hatchbacks
Generation began
2012

Pricing

Current retail median
$17,963
Retail value range
$13,775 - $21,125
Original MSRP range
$20,895 - $29,995
Trade-in range
$10,870 - $18,970

Ratings

Road test score
59/100
Owner satisfaction
4/5
Would buy again
77%
Reliability
5/5

Fuel economy

EPA city
26 MPG
EPA highway
33 MPG
EPA combined
29 MPG
Tested city
19 MPG
Tested highway
36 MPG
Tested overall
27 MPG
Annual fuel cost
$1,450
Cruising range
390 miles

Road tests

0-30 mph
3.1 sec
0-60 mph
8.4 sec
60-0 mph braking
136 ft
Avoidance speed
51 mph
Test status
Test Completed

Dimensions

Length
168 in
Width
71 in
Height
59 in
Wheelbase
100 in
Weight
3,040 lb
Maximum load
835 lb
Towing capacity
0 lb

Interior

Seating
4 people
Front head room
6.5 in
Front leg room
43 in
Rear head room
1.5 in
Rear leg room
24 in
Luggage
2+1+0

Owner feedback

Comfort
3/5
Driving
5/5
Styling
5/5
Value
5/5

Environmental impact

Air pollution score
7/10
Greenhouse gas score
6/10
SmartWay
No

Brand context

About Volkswagen

Most Volkswagens are well-built, agile, fun-to-drive cars that feel slightly more premium than their competitors. Its lineup is focused on SUVs, most of which have spacious, comfortable interiors and unexpectedly responsive driving dynamics. Its Golf hatchback, especially in performance trims, is a rare balance of practicality and driving thrills. Most models, including its EVs, have excellent fit and finish. Brand-wide downsides include unintuitive controls and infotainment systems, and below-average reliability for new cars. Reliability for used VWs is average.

Vehicle ID: 13655 First published: July 22, 2020 Updated: December 4, 2025

Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.

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