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2018 Volkswagen Beetle

2018 Volkswagen Beetle
Save up to $5,268
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MSRP range
$20,220 - $26,790
Edmunds Rating
7.2 out of 10
Consumer Rating
(4)
2018 Volkswagen Beetle
Save up to $5,268
See All For Sale
New
2018
2017
Used
2016
2015
2014
2013
2012

Pros

  • Stylish interior design
  • Powerful engine with strong fuel economy
  • More practical than other high-style small cars

Cons

  • Less practical than conventional compact hatchbacks
  • More expensive than competitors
Save as much as $5,268

2018 Volkswagen Beetle pricing

in Ashburn, VA

Which Beetle does Edmunds recommend?

We would select a base Beetle S with the Style & Comfort package. That package gets you a wealth of desirable equipment, including an upgraded tech interface that features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. At the same time, it doesn't seem as if you get enough by stepping up to the SE. If you're looking for max Beetle style, the tasteful new Coast edition could be worth a look since it adds several stylish add-ons to the Style & Comfort package.

Edmunds' Expert Review

Overall rating

7.2 / 10

Few cars on the road are more iconic that Volkswagen's Beetle. Yet the newest-generation model that debuted for the 2012 model year has never been a big seller in the way the original and the more recent "New Beetle" were. That's really a shame because the 2018 VW Beetle is an appealing little two-door that offers a compelling blend of style, performance, comfort and features.

For 2018, things have been simplified a bit in Beetle land. There are fewer trim levels with the demise of the performance-oriented R-Line. But a new special-edition Coast trim level that features special beach-themed styling has been added. OK, so some cutesy retro pastiche lives on. There's also a new engine standard on every Beetle, including the vaguely off-roadish Dune version. A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder replaces the old 1.8-liter, and although both produce the same output — 174 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque — the new 2.0-liter nets an extra 3 mpg in combined city/highway driving.

Some familiar downsides are still around, including less cargo space and a higher price than most other competing hatchbacks. But if you're looking for a compact car with some character, giving the Beetle a chance could definitely be worth it.

2018 Volkswagen Beetle configurations

The 2018 Volkswagen Beetle is a two-door hatchback that seats four people. 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. For 2018, that includes in the engine bay as well. Every Beetle comes standard with a turbocharged 2.0-liter 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 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 for the S adds 17-inch wheels, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, extra body-colored exterior trim, keyless ignition and entry, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, leatherette 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).

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, special exterior design elements, 18-inch wheels, faux leather and cloth upholstery, front sport seats, and all of the SE Premium's added elements apart from Discover Media touchscreen, 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

7.5
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

7.0
As in 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. But stopping power is impressive. We measured a very good 115-foot distance in our panic-stop test from 60 mph.

Steering

7.0
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

6.5
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

7.5
The Beetle does most things right and is easy to drive. Its small footprint and standard rearview camera, plus available front and rear sensors, make it extremely easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

Off-road

The Dune features 6.3 inches of ground clearance, which is far from SUV-like but more than you'd get in a car. 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 thankfully still a modern-day small car. 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

7.5
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 upholstery offers good cushioning. Adjustable lumbar support isn't standard in this class, so we're happy the Beetle offers it.

Ride comfort

8.5
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. Any Beetle would be a great road-trip car.

Noise & vibration

8.5
The cabin is insulated from road, tire and wind noise. At highway cruising speeds, the engine is relatively low on the rev range and is fairly quiet. Even when you boot the gas, the Beetle is hushed compared to most rivals.

Interior

7.0
The Beetle feels airy and bright thanks to its 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 and thick pillars.

Ease of use

8.0
The controls are logically placed, clearly labeled and within reach of front-seat occupants. The climate controls are simple, and the steering wheel buttons are easy to operate without having to change your grip much.

Getting in/getting out

7.0
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 have a nifty pillar-mounted grab handle to make getting out of the back seats easier.

Roominess

7.0
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.

Visibility

6.5
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

6.5
A slight creaking noise came from the dash in our test car, 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.

Utility

7.0
There isn't a lot of space in the 2018 VW Beetle 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

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 Beetle's hatchback design gives it a decent-size trunk at 15.4 cubic feet. With the 50/50-split folding rear seats stowed, that capacity expands to 30 cubic feet, but it's important to note that these figures represent loading the space to the ceiling.

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 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.

Overall Consumer Rating
4.34 reviews
Write a reviewSee all 4 reviews
5(50%)
4(25%)
3(25%)
2(0%)
1(0%)

Most helpful consumer reviews

Beetle Juice!!
Mary,12/30/2017
My new bottle green bug is eye catching, everybody who sees it loves the colour. I am a tall woman, 5'11" and have lots of leg room..The technology is great, easy for me to get used to..this is my second Beetle..my last one was a 2006 and had it for ten years...even though I have a beautiful Jaguar FPace-S SUV, I just love this little car for tooting around town....
love my Beetle
Albert,01/10/2018
Interior design and comfort are enjoyable.
Zippy little car but...
Mary Bridget Ward,09/04/2018
Bought my cute, zippy Beetle hatchback in late April 2018. I currently have 3800 Miles on it. The EPC light keeps coming on. My car is now at the dealer service for the third time in a month for this. The service department can’t seem to figure this problem out. They keep assuring me they are in touch with Volkswagen enginineering to solve this. The Honda dealer is across the street. I can’t help but think I should have bought my sixth Honda at this point. All I did with my Honda’s is change the oil and rotate the tires.
Love my Bug!!
Theresa,09/13/2018
There isn’t a rear wiper... and the seats are not made of leather, therefore you don’t slid out very easily.. I love the way it looks and drives!! The radio is great!! Overall I love the car.
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See all 4 reviews
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Features & Specs

MSRP
$20,220
MPG
26 city / 33 hwy
Seats 4
6-speed shiftable automatic
Gas
174 hp @ 5000 rpm
MSRP
$24,020
MPG
26 city / 33 hwy
Seats 4
6-speed shiftable automatic
Gas
174 hp @ 5000 rpm
MSRP
$26,790
MPG
26 city / 34 hwy
Seats 4
6-speed shiftable automatic
Gas
174 hp @ 5000 rpm
MSRP
$23,120
MPG
26 city / 33 hwy
Seats 4
6-speed shiftable automatic
Gas
174 hp @ 5000 rpm
See all 2018 Volkswagen Beetle features & specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite Beetle safety features:

VW Car-Net Security & Service
Automatically informs emergency services in the event of a crash. Also includes an emergency response button.
Blind-Spot Monitor
Keeps track of your blind spots and alerts you to the presence of other cars with lights in the side mirrors.
Automatic Post-Collision Braking System
Automatically applies the brakes in the event of a collision, reducing the likelihood of a secondary impact.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
  • Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
    Overall4 / 5
    Driver5 / 5
    Passenger4 / 5
  • Side Crash Rating
    Overall5 / 5
  • Side Barrier Rating
    Overall5 / 5
    Driver5 / 5
    Passenger5 / 5
  • Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
    Front Seat5 / 5
    Back Seat5 / 5
  • Rollover
    Rollover4 / 5
    Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
    Risk Of Rollover10.5%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
  • Side Impact Test
    Good
  • Roof Strength Test
    Good
  • Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
    Good
  • IIHS Small Overlap Front Test
    Marginal
  • Moderate Overlap Front Test
    Good

2018 Volkswagen Beetle for Sale

Volkswagen Beetle 2018 2.0T S 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
New 2018
Volkswagen Beetle
2.0T S
(61)
Lindsay Volkswagen of Dulles
3.8 mi away
MSRP$21,350
Est.Loan: $359/mo
Great Deal!Great Deal!
View Details
Dealer Notes
Pure White 2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T S FWD 6-Speed Automatic with Tiptronic 2.0L TSI Titan Black Cloth. 26/33 City/Highway MPG
Volkswagen Beetle 2018 2.0T S 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
New 2018
Volkswagen Beetle
2.0T S
(6)
Stohlman Volkswagen
15.3 mi away
MSRP$22,865
Est.Loan: $386/mo
Great Deal!Great Deal!
View Details
Dealer Notes
2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T S Black Artificial Leather. Factory MSRP: $22,865 $1,850 off MSRP! 2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T S 2D Hatchback Deep Black 6-Speed Automatic with Tiptronic FWD 2.0L TSI Please contact the New Vehicle Sales Department @ 703-893-2990 for Volkswagen and Subaru questions you may have about any of the vehicles!!! See you Soon! 26/33 City/Highway MPG 26/33 City/Highway MPG
Volkswagen Beetle 2018 2.0T S 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
New 2018
Volkswagen Beetle
2.0T S
(7)
King Volkswagen
16.8 mi away
MSRP$23,040
Est.Loan: $389/mo
Great Deal!Great Deal!
View Details
Dealer Notes
Black 2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T S FWD 6-Speed Automatic with Tiptronic 2.0L TSI Black Cloth.2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T S FWD. Recent Arrival! 3326 HighwayCity MPG

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More about the 2018 Volkswagen Beetle

The 2018 Volkswagen Beetle stakes out a pleasant middle ground between style and functionality. Easy to drive, well-built and visually distinctive, the Beetle allows drivers to enjoy its charms without sacrificing day-to-day livability.

For 2018, the Beetle lineup has been simplified. There is now only one engine choice: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that achieves the same 174 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque as the old 1.8-liter. But it now gets an extra 3 mpg combined for 29 mpg combined (26 city/34 highway). A six-speed automatic is standard.

There are also fewer trim levels: S, SE, Dune and the new Coast special edition. Even the base trim comes with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an eight-speaker sound system and a touchscreen, but we'd 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 essentially adds some special styling inside on top of those features.

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 slightly raised ride height to achieve a more rugged appearance.

But with every Beetle, 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. Storage space for odds and ends is limited, but the trunk is decent and the opening is large.

In terms of driving dynamics, that turbocharged engine provides plenty of power. And although the relaxed steering and handling will be a disappointment to anyone hoping the Beetle is a VW GTI in retro clothing, its impressive comfort should be appealing to many.

For a small car with a combination of fun-loving flair and daily-driver utility, you can't do much better than the 2018 Volkswagen Beetle. Use Edmunds to help find the perfect one for you.

2018 Volkswagen Beetle Overview

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

What do people think of the 2018 Volkswagen Beetle?

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

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2018 Volkswagen Beetle and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2018 Beetle 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?
2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T SE 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)

The 2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T SE 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $25,365. The average price paid for a new 2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T SE 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $5,268 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $5,268 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$20,097.

The average savings for the 2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T SE 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is20.8% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 5 2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T SE 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

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

The 2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T S 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $21,350. The average price paid for a new 2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T S 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $4,913 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $4,913 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$16,437.

The average savings for the 2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T S 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is23% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

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

Which 2018 Volkswagen Beetles 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 for sale near. There are currently 29 new 2018 Beetles listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $21,350 and mileage as low as 0 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. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $5,268 on a used or CPO 2018 Beetle available from a dealership near you.

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

Find a new Volkswagen Beetle for sale - 9 great deals out of 20 listings starting at $7,341.

Find a new Volkswagen for sale - 12 great deals out of 14 listings starting at $8,791.

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?

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.

Check out Volkswagen lease specials

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