The 2017 Volkswagen Beetle stakes out a pleasant middle ground among the few retro-themed convertibles that we consider its competition. It's stylish but also very functional and easy to drive. If you're seeking a fun retromobile, the VW Beetle should be on your short list.

We're now well into the second generation of the Beetle's revival and the lineup is just as strong as it's ever been. The more typical trim levels remain, bolstered by a few models to keep things interesting. The new #PinkBeetle (not associated with breast cancer awareness organizations) brings a funky fuchsia paint job and quaint plaid interior and the returning Dune harkens back to the Baja Bugs of the 1970s.

Thankfully, the charm and personality of the Beetle don't mean you need to sacrifice elsewhere. It's plenty capable, comfortable and convenient. The bigger concern may be price, as the Beetle does cost a bit more than some of its other nouveau-retro rivals, but it likely won't be so great as to kill a deal. With six available trim levels, there's probably one in your budget.

2017 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible configurations

The 2017 Volkswagen Beetle is a two-door convertible that is available in six trim levels, starting with the 1.8T S and climbing to the 1.8 SE, 1.8 SEL, 1.8T Classic, 1.8T Dune and a new #PinkBeetle limited edition. All of these models are powered by a turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine (170 horsepower, 184 pound-feet of torque) paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheels.

For the most part, successive trim levels add more comfort and technology features, but even the base 1.8T S comes with a solid list of standard items.

Standard feature highlights for the base 1.8T S trim include 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, heated mirrors, a power-folding fabric top with a glass rear window, a rear spoiler, keyless remote entry, cruise control, air-conditioning, imitation-leather upholstery, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, heated front seats, 50/50-split folding rear seats, a rearview camera, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, color-adjustable ambient interior lighting, a 5-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth phone and streaming audio, and an eight-speaker CD player with auxiliary and USB input.

The 1.8T Classic adds 17-inch wheels, cloth and imitation-leather upholstery, VW Car-Net smartphone integration, a 6.3-inch touchscreen, a navigation system, and HD and satellite radio. This model does not come with the ambient lighting.

The 1.8T SE includes the ambient lighting, keyless entry and ignition and full imitation-leather upholstery, but it does not include the navigation system. The 1.8 SEL trim adds 18-inch wheels, front and rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, dual-zone automatic climate control, the navigation system and a Fender premium audio system.

The limited edition #PinkBeetle is appointed similarly to the 1.8 SE and is only available in a metallic fuchsia exterior color. Other additions include 18-inch wheels xenon headlights, LED running lights and taillights, and unique plaid upholstery. The auto-dimming mirror is not included. The 1.8T Dune model is also similar to the 1.8 SE trim but adds 18-inch wheels, unique exterior styling elements, LED taillights, front and rear parking sensors, a slightly raised suspension, and cloth- and imitation-leather-upholstered sport seats. It does not include the keyless entry and ignition, however.

Some features are available as options on supporting trim levels.

Trim tested

2016 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T Dune (turbo 1.8L inline-4 | 6-speed automatic | FWD)

NOTE: This review utilizes information and impressions of a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T Dune hatchback and a 2014 Beetle Convertible R-Line (which is no longer available). Differences between these test vehicles and the typical 1.8T Beetle convertible are likely related to handling and ride comfort, but our other findings remain broadly applicable.

Driving

3.5

Acceleration is good whether you're pulling away from a stoplight or looking to overtake a semi on the freeway, but braking effort is higher than anticipated because the brakes aren't quick to respond. The Dune's raised ride height and comfort-oriented suspension tuning come at the cost of handling.

Acceleration

4.0

The engine output numbers may not be all that impressive, but the 1.8-liter has plenty of power nonetheless. You don't have to floor the pedal to force a downshift, and its 0-60 mph time of 7.5 seconds is quick for the class.

Braking

3.0

There's a lack of initial braking force that makes it difficult to slow the Beetle smoothly. There's also a lot of pedal travel, so stops require more force than you might expect. Still, you can't argue with the excellent stopping distance from 60 mph of 115 feet.

Steering

3.0

Steering effort is a bit heavier than expected, making the Beetle feel more controllable at highway speeds than its rivals, yet very light when maneuvering at slow speeds. The thin-rimmed steering wheel feels a little flimsy, though.

Handling

3.0

The Dune's raised suspension feels nice around town, controlling the Beetle well at low speeds. On longer sweeps or around tight corners, there's a noticeable amount of body roll. This might sap your confidence to drive the Beetle quickly when the road gets twisty.

Drivability

3.5

The Beetle does most things right and is easy to drive. Its small footprint and the Dune's standard rearview camera and front and rear sensors make it extremely easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

Comfort

4.0

Though Volkswagen would like you to think of this as a modern-day Baja Bug, the Beetle Dune is really about comfort. The seats hug you without being oppressive, and the suspension dispatches road imperfections without transmitting any harshness to the driver. Exterior noise is limited.

Seat comfort

3.5

The seat bottom isn't long enough to provide taller drivers with outstanding thigh support. Otherwise, the seats feel supportive and comfortable, and the cloth inserts offer good cushioning. Adjustable lumbar support isn't standard in this class, so we're happy the Beetle offers it.

Ride comfort

4.5

Even though the Dune's raised suspension doesn't do much for handling, it certainly seems to make this Beetle ride well. Impacts are well-controlled, and the Beetle never feels jittery. This would be a great road-trip car.

Noise & vibration

3.0

At highway cruising speeds, the engine is relatively low on the rev range and is fairly quiet, and road noise is pleasantly muted. We detected significant amounts of wind noise around the fabric top, however.

Interior

3.0

The Beetle feels airy and bright thanks to the large windows, and the roof is high enough for a pair of tall adults in the front. Visibility out the back is hampered by a small window surrounded by the convertible top.

Ease of use

4.0

Controls are logically placed, clearly labeled and within reach of front seat occupants. Climate controls are simple, and steering wheel buttons are easy to operate without having to change your grip much.

Getting in/getting out

3.0

The fairly large doors make getting into and out of the Beetle easy, but their size can limit how far they can be opened in a parking lot.

Roominess

3.0

There's plenty of headroom for those in the front, although two adults are likely to brush elbows. The rear seats are comfortable, but minimal amounts of leg- and headroom diminish their long-distance usefulness. Shoulder room is also narrowed by the convertible top.

Visibility

2.0

Visibility forward and out the side glass is good. The view over your shoulder, however, is blocked by the soft top's thick rear roof pillar and relatively small rear window. Fortunately, a rearview camera is standard.

Quality

3.0

There was a slight creaking noise coming from the dash in our tester, but otherwise build quality was solid. Interior materials looked and felt fine but weren't class-leading. Its hard, body-colored plastic trim was an acquired taste.

Utility

3.0

There isn't a lot of space for your personal items in the cabin, but the cargo space should be able to accommodate plenty of your larger items. Overall, the Beetle is about average in this category.

Small-item storage

3.0

Gimmicky door nets are a poor substitute for actual cubbies, and the armrest bin doesn't hold much. But there's a good amount of space under the center stack.

Cargo space

2.0

The small 7.1-cubic-foot trunk has a small, upright opening suitable for a couple of bags but little else. Unfortunately, the top-hinged trunk hatch makes loading awkward. A very narrow pass-through behind the rear seats will help with longer items.

Technology

3.0

As far as infotainment systems go, the VW Beetle's isn't cutting-edge, but it is relatively easy to use and the screen resolution is sharp enough to read at a quick glance.

Audio & navigation

3.0

The touchscreen utilizes a nice mix of physical and digital controls. It's easy to use, but it's a couple inches too small by contemporary standards.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible.

Overall Consumer Rating

4.26 reviews

Write a review See all 6 reviews

5(66%)

4(16%)

3(0%)

2(0%)

1(18%)

Most helpful consumer reviews

Old timers need "cool" too.

Mike Giacomelli,06/02/2017

They are much nicer than you may think. Reality is they are a two person car....but a very cool ride! Still enjoying our "cool ride". Only complaint is the rear visibility is very limited due to the headrests and I'm told for safety's sake they cannot be removed

Love it

Cindelu,10/10/2017

This is the sweetest little convertible. Beautiful and sexy. A little tight in the back seat and small trunk but we adore her. Haven't driven in the snow yet but I have had a beetle before and it was fine.

VW Overestimate Gas Mileage

Michael Belmont,12/29/2017

I'm getting a combined average gas mileage of only a little over 23 mpg. That's well below the combined average on the sticker of 27 mpg. My 2009 MINI convertible that traded in was get about 27 mpg combined with the top down and air conditioning on. The top up and heat on on the VW hasn't improved mpg. I'd give a 5 star rating with better gas mileage.

Napleton's Dealership, Urbana, IL

Corinne H,07/31/2017

I just bought my VW Beetle at Napleton's in Urbana, IL, and the team there made my experience so enjoyable. Matthew Morales was so personable, answering all my questions and making sure I got what I wanted. He made the whole process easy and fun, along with his manager, Derek. Billy walked me through the financing and warrenty process with his great sense of humor. I couldn't have

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Features & Specs

MSRP

$24,725

MPG

24 city / 33 hwy

Seats 4

6-speed shiftable automatic

Gas

170 hp @ 4800 rpm

MSRP

$30,275

MPG

24 city / 33 hwy

Seats 4

6-speed shiftable automatic

Gas

170 hp @ 4800 rpm

MSRP

$24,995

MPG

24 city / 33 hwy

Seats 4

6-speed shiftable automatic

Gas

170 hp @ 4800 rpm

MSRP

$26,795

MPG

24 city / 33 hwy

Seats 4

6-speed shiftable automatic

Gas

170 hp @ 4800 rpm

See all 2017 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible features & specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite Beetle Convertible safety features:

VW Car-Net: Includes automatic crash notification and roadside assistance as well as some convenience features built into the smartphone app.
Blind Spot Monitor: Alerts you if there's a car in your blind spot and includes rear cross-traffic alert, too.
Automatic Post-Collision Braking System: Automatically applies the brakes in the event of a collision, reducing the likelihood of a secondary impact.

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More about the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible

The 2017 Beetle convertible is an easy car to live with, and yet its styling clearly harks back to the classic Beetle of yesteryear. For a small and stylish drop-top, this is one of the best.

One of this car's best attributes is its turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 170 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. It's powerful enough to give to give the Beetle a nice boost of speed when you need it, yet it's also pretty frugal, with the EPA estimating you'll get 28 mpg in combined city and highway driving.

Volkswagen offers the Beetle convertible in six trim levels, starting with the 1.8T S and then climbing to the 1.8T Classic, 1.8 SE, a new #PinkBeetle limited edition, 1.8T Dune and 1.8 SEL. Standard feature highlights for the base 1.8T S trim include 16-inch alloy wheels, a rearview camera, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a 5-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth and an eight-speaker sound system. The 1.8T Classic adds a few extra features including a bigger touchscreen and a navigation system.

You get a few more features with the 1.8 SE, while the limited-edition #PinkBeetle is appointed similarly to the 1.8 SE but is only available in a metallic fuchsia exterior color. The 1.8T Dune model is also similar to the 1.8 SE trim but adds unique exterior styling elements. At the top of the Beetle line is the loaded 1.8 SEL.

No matter the version, the Beetle is decent to drive. The steering is firm and responsive, though the thin-rimmed steering wheel feels a bit flimsy. The Dune model has a raised suspension that makes it lean a bit more when going around turns. Yet all versions of the Beetle ride comfortably, albeit with some wind noise around the closed roof. You'll notice some big blind spots; the small rear window limits visibility to the rear when the top is up. Good thing a rearview camera is standard. Also, the trunk is tiny (just 7.1 cubic feet — the removable tonneau cover takes up a good chunk of that — and the opening is tiny), and there's not much storage space in the cabin.

Still, for a small convertible with a combination of retro-themed flair and daily-driver utility, you can't do much better than the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle convertible. Use Edmunds to help find the perfect one for you.

2017 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible Overview

The 2017 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible is offered in the following submodels: Beetle Convertible. Available styles include 1.8T S 2dr Convertible (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A), 1.8T SEL 2dr Convertible (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A), #PinkBeetle 2dr Convertible (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A), 1.8T Classic 2dr Convertible (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A), 1.8T Dune 2dr Convertible (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A), and 1.8T SE 2dr Convertible (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A).

What do people think of the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2017 Beetle Convertible 4 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2017 Beetle Convertible.

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2017 Beetle Convertible featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.

Our Review Process

This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

Which 2017 Volkswagen Beetle Convertibles are available in my area?

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2017 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible for sale near. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible.

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Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.

Should I lease or buy a 2017 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

2017 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible

New

Used

2017 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible pricing

Which Beetle Convertible does Edmunds recommend?

Edmunds' Expert Review

Overall rating

2017 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible configurations

Trim tested

Driving

Acceleration

Braking

Steering

Handling

Drivability

Comfort

Seat comfort

Ride comfort

Noise & vibration

Interior

Ease of use

Getting in/getting out

Roominess

Visibility

Quality

Utility

Small-item storage

Cargo space

Technology

Audio & navigation

Most helpful consumer reviews

Features & Specs

Safety

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2017 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible Overview

What do people think of the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible?

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Our Review Process

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