It's not easy to find an inexpensive convertible. Drop-tops are few and far between to begin with, and those on the lower end of the price scale are an absolute rarity. Pleasingly, though, the 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible is just such a vehicle.

True, as a Beetle, it comes with iconic styling and a half-century's worth of reputation, expectation and even stigma wrapped up in its kitschy package. It will never be for everyone. But judged solely on its merits as a convertible, the Beetle is a comparatively sensible choice.

First and foremost, it is larger and more comfortable than its primary points of comparison: the Mini Convertible and the barely-a-convertible Fiat 500C. Is its cabin spacious? No, but it's also not clown-car-cramped. Its bigger size contributes to a greater sense of refinement and better ride quality. Its ride isn't choppy like the Mini's and Fiat's.

Now, it certainly isn't the sharpest car to drive (a Mini or Mazda MX-5 would be a better call if you're looking for that), but it's hard to complain about the engine. New for 2018 is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder. It produces the same 174 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque as last year's engine, but it is more fuel-efficient. By comparison, a comparably priced Mini has 134 horsepower, while the Fiat 500C has 101 hp.

Ultimately, the Beetle's combination of size, refinement and power translates into a bigger-convertible feel at a reasonable small-convertible price. You'll still be dealing with compromised cargo space (which you will in almost every convertible) and limited rear visibility (ditto), but based on its objective merits, the Beetle is a great drop-top choice.

2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible configurations

The 2018 Volkswagen Beetle is a two-door, four-passenger convertible with a standard power-operated soft-top. There are four trim levels: S, Coast, SE and Dune. The Dune boasts a slightly raised suspension for more ground clearance, but otherwise all are mechanically the same. Every Beetle comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine good for 174 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic is the only transmission available.

The base S comes standard with 16-inch alloy wheels, LED running lights, heated mirrors, a fully powered retractable soft-top, a separate tonneau/boot cover for the lowered roof, a rearview camera, height-adjustable front seats, cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth, the Composition Color 5-inch touchscreen interface, one USB port, and an eight-speaker sound system that includes a CD player, an auxiliary audio jack and a media player interface.

The Style & Comfort package adds 17-inch wheels, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, extra body-color exterior trim, keyless ignition and entry, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, leatherette premium vinyl upholstery, heated front seats, satellite radio, the Composition Media 6.3-inch touchscreen, HD and satellite radios, and VW Car-Net App-Connect (adds various smartphone-integration apps, most notably Android Auto and Apple CarPlay). Every Beetle convertible can be fitted with a removable wind blocker placed over the back seats. It's a dealer-installed accessory.

The special-edition Coast trim includes all of the above plus a sunroof, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems, and special design elements (a unique Deep Sea Teal paint option, a surfboard-look dash pad, houndstooth cloth upholstery and special floor mats). The Coast Light package adds bi-xenon headlights and LED taillights.

The SE includes all of the Coast's extra equipment apart from the special design elements. It also adds dual-zone automatic climate control and VW Car-Net Security & Service emergency communications. Its SE Premium package adds 18-inch wheels, front and rear parking sensors, the bi-xenon headlights, LED taillights, a Fender audio system, and the Discover Media 6.3-inch touchscreen that essentially adds a navigation system to the Composition Media system.

The Beetle Dune features extra ground clearance, a wider track and exterior design elements, plus 18-inch wheels, faux leather and cloth upholstery, front sport seats, and all of the SE Premium's added elements apart from Discover Media, which is not available. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems and VW Car-Net Security and Service are also not available on the Dune.

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2016 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T Dune (turbo 1.8L inline-4 | 6-speed automatic | FWD).

NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current Beetle has received some revisions, including a new engine that's now standard in every variation, including the Dune. Our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's Beetle.

Driving

7.0

Acceleration should be strong whether you're pulling away from a stoplight or looking to overtake 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 hamper handling.

Acceleration

8.0

The Beetle gets a new 2.0-liter turbo engine for 2018, but given that it has the same output as its 1.8-liter predecessor, we would expect it to turn in a comparable 0-60 mph time of about 7.5 seconds, quick for its class.

Braking

5.0

Like other VWs, 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 expected. Stopping power is impressive, though. We measured a very good 115-foot distance in our panic-stop test from 60 mph.

Steering

6.0

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 low speeds. The thin-rimmed steering wheel feels a little flimsy.

Handling

7.0

The Dune's raised suspension feels nice around town, but around tight corners, there's a noticeable amount of body roll. Every other Beetle would be better, but none is truly engaging. Don't expect a VW GTI, or even a Golf, in retro clothing.

Drivability

7.0

The Beetle does most things right and is easy to drive. Its engine and transmission are responsive, and its steering makes it easy to maneuver in parking lots. Rear visibility, however, does not.

Off-road

The Dune features 6.3 inches of ground clearance, which is far from SUV-like but more than what you'd get in any other convertible not named Wrangler or Evoque. You can literally take it off the road, but not very far.

Comfort

8.0

Though Volkswagen plays off the 2018 Beetle's style, this is one of the more comfortable and refined small convertibles (perhaps the most). The seats hug you without being oppressive, and the suspension dispatches road imperfections without transmitting any harshness to the driver.

Seat comfort

8.0

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 upholstery offers good cushioning. Adjustable lumbar support isn't standard in this class, so we're happy the Beetle offers it.

Ride comfort

8.0

The Beetle's ride is far more comfortable and generally civilized than what you'd get in its handful of competitors. Impacts are well-controlled, and the Beetle never feels jittery. And although the Dune's raised suspension doesn't do much for handling, it improves the ride.

Interior

7.0

The Beetle is bigger and generally easier to use than its few competitors. Its roof is also 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

8.0

The controls are logically placed, clearly labeled and within reach of front-seat occupants. Climate controls are simple, and the steering wheel buttons are easy to operate without having to change your grip much. The roof goes up and down with the touch of a single button.

Getting in/getting out

8.0

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. Rear passengers will have a very easy time of getting in the back with the roof down, but they understandably will struggle with it raised.

Roominess

7.5

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. It's more of a parcel shelf.

Visibility

5.0

Forward and side visibility is just fine thanks to the large windshield and windows. Rear visibility is compromised due to the large pillars, rear headrests and small rear window. The standard rearview camera and front and rear parking sensors are appreciated.

Quality

7.0

A slight creaking noise came from the dash in our tester, but otherwise build quality was solid. Interior materials looked and felt fine but weren't class-leading or VW's best. Its hard, body-colored plastic trim is an acquired taste.

Convertible top

The power soft top is operated fully by the press of a button. Operation is reasonably quick. A separate tonneau cover can be placed over the lowered roof, but it must be stored somewhere when not in use.

Utility

5.0

There isn't a lot of space for your personal items in the cabin, and the trunk is not only small but accessed by an awkward opening. On the upside, virtually every other comparably sized or priced convertible suffers from trunk issues.

Small-item storage

The 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

The tiny 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

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. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are found on all but the most basic, optionless S trim.

Audio & navigation

There's a standard 5-inch touchscreen, but the 6.3-inch one is found on most trims. It uses a nice mix of physical and digital controls. It's easy to use and includes CarPlay and Android Auto, but it's a couple inches too small by contemporary standards.

Driver aids

A rearview camera is standard, and blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems are available, but that's it. Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking or lane keeping assist aren't offered.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible.

Overall Consumer Rating

4.33 reviews

Write a review See all 3 reviews

5(67%)

4(0%)

3(33%)

2(0%)

1(0%)

Most helpful consumer reviews

VW beetle

Jennifer,09/19/2018

I love this car!

German Car - Will I get spanked after warranty?

M Spangler,09/26/2018

My wife bought this car because it was orange & a convertible. I was looking through the manual at service intervals; in usual German fashion, it's high maintenance & it's not even a performance car. How often do you think brake fluid should be replaced? I wish it had crank windows so that nothing electrical would go wrong. I think the auto transmission is Japanese , that's a plus.

Great cute Car

Jose C S Leon,10/11/2018

Check that the car has the PREMIUM package

Write a review

See all 3 reviews

Write a consumer review of your vehicle for a chance to WIN $100!

Write a review

See Official Rules for eligibility and other requirements.

Write a review

Features & Specs

MSRP

$25,440

MPG

26 city / 33 hwy

Seats 4

6-speed shiftable automatic

Gas

174 hp @ 5000 rpm

MSRP

$26,840

MPG

26 city / 33 hwy

Seats 4

6-speed shiftable automatic

Gas

174 hp @ 5000 rpm

MSRP

$28,040

MPG

26 city / 33 hwy

Seats 4

6-speed shiftable automatic

Gas

174 hp @ 5000 rpm

MSRP

$32,090

MPG

26 city / 34 hwy

Seats 4

6-speed shiftable automatic

Gas

174 hp @ 5000 rpm

See all 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible features & specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite Beetle Convertible safety features:

Automotive Rollover Support System: Two bars automatically pop up in the event of a roll-over situation. Makes up for the lack of a full, solid roof.
VW Car-Net Security & Service: Automatically informs emergency services in the event of a crash. Also includes an emergency response button.
Automatic Post-Collision Braking System: Automatically applies the brakes in the event of a collision, reducing the likelihood of a secondary impact.

People who viewed this also viewed

2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible for Sale

Edit Filters

New 2018

Volkswagen Beetle Convertible

2.0T SE

(7)

King Volkswagen

16.8 mi away

MSRP$29,280

Est.Loan: $517/mo

View Details

New 2018

Volkswagen Beetle Convertible

2.0T S

Sharrett Volkswagen

40.3 mi away

MSRP~~$27,635~~

Est.Loan: $488/mo

Fair Deal!

View Details

New 2018

Volkswagen Beetle Convertible

2.0T SE

(11)

Antwerpen Volkswagen

48.5 mi away

MSRP~~$29,235~~

Est.Loan: $517/mo

View Details

See all Beetle Convertible models for sale

Get more for your trade-in

Edmunds shoppers get on average $235 more for their trade-in.

Receive offers from our dealer partners fast.

See your car's value

More about the 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible

The 2018 Volkswagen 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 new-for-2018 turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 170 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. If that seems like we forgot to update those specs from last year's 1.8-liter that's because they're actually the same. It remains impressively powerful enough to give the Beetle a nice boost of speed when you need it and a clear leg up on other compact convertibles. The big change is in fuel economy, which is now 2 mpg higher at 29 mpg combined (26 city/33 highway).

For 2018, there are also fewer trim levels: S, SE, Dune and the new Coast special edition. Even the base trim comes with a fully power-operated soft top, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a touchscreen, but we would recommend opting for that trim's Style & Comfort package. For just a bit more, you get a bunch of desirable equipment such as automatic headlights, keyless start, heated seats and a bigger touchscreen that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The new Coast edition, which seems especially desirable paired with the convertible body style, essentially adds some special styling inside and out to that content.

The SE doesn't offer that much more beyond automatic climate control, a wider array of interior color choices, and access to a Premium package. The loaded Dune model gets special styling and a slight ride height to achieve a more rugged, dune-buggy-ish appearance.

No matter the version, there is a lot to like — especially its balance of style, comfort and functionality. The seats are supportive, the ride is comfortable, and the big windows make the cabin feel bright and airy. Headroom is fantastic for front passengers; back seaters don't make out so well in either the head- or legroom department, but the seat itself is reasonably comfortable.

However, you will notice some big blind spots as the small rear window limits visibility to the rear when the top is up. Good thing a rearview camera is standard. The trunk is tiny — just 7.1 cubic feet — and if you're carrying around the removable tonneau cover, it effectively gets even smaller. Then there's the tiny top-hinged opening that's compromised to say the least. At least every convertible at this price range has some sort of trunk-compromising oddity, so the Beetle certainly isn't an outlier.

In terms of driving, the steering is light in parking lots and responsive enough at speed, though the thin-rimmed steering wheel feels a bit flimsy and you don't get the feedback enjoyed in VW's Golf or GTI. The Dune model has a raised suspension that makes it lean a bit more when going around turns, but ride comfort is improved further beyond what is already a comparatively plush suspension.

As such, for a small convertible with a combination of retro-themed flair and daily-driver utility, you can't do much better than the 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. Use Edmunds to help find the perfect one for you.

2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible Overview

The 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible is offered in the following submodels: Beetle Convertible. Available styles include 2.0T S 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A), 2.0T Coast 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A), 2.0T SE 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A), and 2.0T Dune 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A).

What do people think of the 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2018 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 2018 Beetle Convertible.

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2018 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.

What's a good price for a New 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible?

2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible 2.0T SE 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)

The 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible 2.0T SE 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $29,280. The average price paid for a new 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible 2.0T SE 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $10 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $10 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$29,270.

The average savings for the 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible 2.0T SE 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is0% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 3 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible 2.0T SE 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible 2.0T S 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)

The 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible 2.0T S 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $27,635. The average price paid for a new 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible 2.0T S 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $1,082 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $1,082 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$26,553.

The average savings for the 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible 2.0T S 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is3.9% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 1 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible 2.0T S 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

Which 2018 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) 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible for sale near. There are currently 5 new 2018 Beetle Convertibles listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $26,680 and mileage as low as 8 miles. 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 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $1,082 on a used or CPO 2018 Beetle Convertible available from a dealership near you.

Can't find a new 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertibles you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Find a new Volkswagen Beetle Convertible for sale - 1 great deals out of 13 listings starting at $13,110.

Find a new Volkswagen for sale - 11 great deals out of 18 listings starting at $9,346.

Why trust Edmunds?

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 2018 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.

2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible

New

Used

2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible pricing

Which Beetle Convertible does Edmunds recommend?

Edmunds' Expert Review

Overall rating

2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible configurations

Trim tested

Driving

Acceleration

Braking

Steering

Handling

Drivability

Off-road

Comfort

Seat comfort

Ride comfort

Interior

Ease of use

Getting in/getting out

Roominess

Visibility

Quality

Convertible top

Utility

Small-item storage

Cargo space

Technology

Audio & navigation

Driver aids

Most helpful consumer reviews

Features & Specs

Safety

People who viewed this also viewed

2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible for Sale

Get more for your trade-in

2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible Overview

What do people think of the 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible?

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Our Review Process

What's a good price for a New 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible?

2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible 2.0T SE 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)

2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible 2.0T S 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)

Which 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertibles are available in my area?

Can't find a new 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertibles you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Why trust Edmunds?

Should I lease or buy a 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible?

Related vehicle information

2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible Information

Related 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible Vehicles

More Volkswagen Beetle Convertible Vehicles by Year

Related Volkswagen Vehicles