Used 2018 Volkswagen Beetle Consumer Reviews
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We have a limited number of reviews for the 2018 Beetle, so we've included reviews for other years of the Beetle since its last redesign.
A great sport coupe for not a lot money
D. Rod, 04/08/2017
updated 04/13/2020
2017 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T S 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
56 of 59 people found this review helpful
I originally went to the VW dealer to buy a GTI but I didn't like the car. It looks great and the GTI title suggests that it's a grand touring car but it's more of a track car, not what I was looking for. So, after testing the GTI, I rested my back a little bit (the GTI suspension is rock hard) then tried the Beetle S. And, I loved it. It's a solid sports coupe with the perfect mix of performance and comfort. Also, it's quite a good value. These are the key features: an Audi derived turbo charged four cylinder (smooth and powerful), automatic transmission that can be shifted manually, Hankook GT tires (great performance tires with a lot of grip), multilink independent rear suspension, and a radiator grill done NASCAR style (positioned down low). You can get all this for about $21,000. It's hard to find another brand that offers all this at that price point. Bottom line, it's a lot of fun to drive. I drove a 2007 VW Rabbit for 10 years and the only maintenance, other than routine, was the replacement of transmission driveshaft boots. So, I think it's reasonable to expect this car to be just as reliable. Also, just a final note, VW engineers chose this car to race in Red Bull Global Rallycross in which it won two championships.
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I drove a truck for 10 years
Thomas Pagano, 03/02/2018
2016 Volkswagen Beetle R-Line SE 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
16 of 16 people found this review helpful
Rline check. 6 Speed manual. Check. Killer Stereo. Check. Turbo. Check. Horsepower Uniqueness from EVERY OTHER car on the road. Check. $17000 for a used 1 year old with 20K miles on it. Check. MPG. Check. Here's the deal folks...you aren't driving a more fun, reliable, affordable car on the market. And I looked at ALL of them. Unfortunately at the time, there we no Convertibles for sale used. I put this car up against Audi's and BMWs. But go ahead and spend the money on those others if trying to impress the rest of the road is your thing. For me, I look at the Audi and think...what a collosal waste of money. I don't care HOW good that car is. The ONLY NEGATIVE THING I HAVE TO SAY ABOUT THIS CAR IS YOU NEED TO REALLY PAY ATTENTION WHEN BACKING UP. VISIBILITY ISNT GOOD. I've come to use the camera, which is against my nature. I just pay double attention when backing up. Here is a an idea of how much I like this car. I LOVE MY MOTORCYCLE, and I have driven this instead ON MANY OCCASIONS and it had nothing to do with weather or storage. It had to do with FUN OF DRIVING.
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2018 Volkswagen Beetle for sale near you
Showing 3 of 56 listings
- 2.0T Coast 2dr HatchbackMSRP: $18,89182 mi away
- 2.0T Dune 2dr HatchbackMSRP: $19,499146 mi away
- 2.0T SE 2dr HatchbackMSRP: $21,595154 mi away
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1 mo and 4500mi. later
Scott, 03/12/2018
2017 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T Classic 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
13 of 13 people found this review helpful
I am a big tall person and bought the beetle because it was a 2 door. Gas mileage is fantastic and it runs great at 75 mph. Radio is decent but no remote start or other luxury items. Seat quality could use another inch of foam. Tires are awful but Hankook put me into better tires. Hydroplaned in heavy rain. Probably going to end up with Michelins. Now for the good things. It is a blast to drive and it likes to go fast. Cruise control is great. Stopping for a deer was fantastic ( I live in North Texas). My king ranch is so lonely from sitting, it is lonely. Need a lot better dealer support.
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Don't miss out!
Mia Zaffarano, 03/17/2017
2015 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T Classic 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
12 of 12 people found this review helpful
If you've been looking into the 2015 Beetle, and can't decide between another car you like. Don't hesitate any longer, if you like a sleek modern interior that will wow all your passengers, with the joys of a comfortable ride. This car is for you. Not only is this car fun to drive it's even more fun with the turbo injection and sport mode.
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Second VW Beetle - fun car
Joe, 08/25/2018
2017 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T SE 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
My wife and I have enjoyed the car. We were very disappointed that VW no longer offers a manual transmission. We had a 2014 TDI Beetle that was part of the emissions recall. It had a six speed stick and it was very enjoyable to drive. The 2017 model came equipped with an automatic only. The interior space is good for two. The back seats are usable only with young children. The instrument cluster is arranged satisfactorily, but lacks the indicators I prefer - oil pressure, volt/amp meter and engine temperature. Engine temperature is available digitally by scrolling through the options, but can be distracting as you scroll. The car overall is well made, fit and finish are good.
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The most perfect vehicle you will ever have
17db, 09/11/2016
2016 Volkswagen Beetle R-Line SEL PZEV 2dr Hatchback (2.0L Turbo 4cyl 6AM)
20 of 22 people found this review helpful
This car is the perfect car for a single person. I'm not saying this as my own opinion either. My 7 friends and I, have had older beetles and now we all have 2015 or 2016 beetles, all in different colors (one has a Dune, a few have the basic and the rest have the R lines). from my experience, the beetle is and always has been the best car. Don't get me wrong, I disliked my first beetle in 2001, thought it was very ugly but my friend gave it to me for free. And that was the most reliable and the fastest car I've had. That car lasted me until I decided to get a brand new 2016 beetle. The beetle is great in winter and has all the features needed: heated seats/mirrors, navigation, backup camera, ESP/ABS, sunroof....and there's a lot more. It is quick and small and most people underestimate this car, they think it's a girly car. But me and my friends have always had beetles, along with second cars for fun, and the beetle is always the best everyday car. Also, with a brighter beetle, you're less likely to get pulled over! I've gotten away with so much in this car that I didn't get away with in my mustang. So right now I own a Dune Beetle, a GSR and a RLine (after selling my mustang for the GSR). I also always get compliments on my car and everyone wants to ride in it. All the 2016 and 2015 beetles ride nice, smooth, and stable, you can't hear anything outside really and the car doesn't jiggle like the older models. I have had no problems with my beetles and don't even need winter tir in winter! Get this car!
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great ride and drive and still running well
Stevo, 07/23/2018
updated 01/24/2022
2017 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T SE 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
First I got a 2015 VW Beetle Yellow then I traded in for another car last February which should not have. Since then I miss it a lot. Just got a 2017 VW Beetle this time is red. This is has Turbo, wiper sensor, auto head light which did not have on 2015. I had the sunroof on 2015 which I rarely use. No sunroof on the 2017 which is fine with me. I got with 9K on it and looks new. Now I am glad I got it back, now having fun driving it. I still have the 4runner when I need it. Still have the 2017 Beetle Turbo, running GREAT
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Beetle Juice!!
Mary, 12/31/2017
2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T SE 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
22 of 25 people found this review helpful
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....
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Reminds me of our 1959 Kaefer
John Baril, 12/25/2016
2016 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T S PZEV 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
I traded a '16 Wolfsburg Edition (a base model with heated leatherette seats and monster mats) for a '16 Classic (also a base model, but with Apple Connect, multi-function steering wheel and a fabulous retro interior which features a grey and white check cloth seating with surrounding saddle-colored leatherette). It also has retro wheels, which are cool. I can't think of any car (and I used to own a Mini base model) more suited for a one- or two-person family and especially a commuter car. It's cool, still a bit rare, the 1.8L turbo goes like stink and drives wonderfully. Plus, with $5000+ off MSRP for the many remaining '16s, a bargain. Leases are great too. Around Metro Colorado you can lease a Wolfsburg for $159/mo/48 months/10K--there happen to be several still around at one particular dealership. Anyway, I love it and the interior reminds me of our '59 Beetle which we owned in the '60s when I grew up in Holland.
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Love my Bug!!
Theresa, 09/14/2018
2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T SE 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
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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Puts a smile on my face!
Polly Hinds, 06/02/2017
2016 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T S 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
7 of 8 people found this review helpful
Every time I get in my Beetle, it puts a smile on my face! Tons of style in this Classic, along with acceleration and mileage. I love this car... first new car I have purchased in 19 years. The only poor feature in this car is the lack of the ability to recline the front seats-It is really a little annoying for long distance travel with passengers.
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The Classic is a Perfect Fit
Michael Clark, 07/23/2015
updated 01/25/2017
2015 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T Classic 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
14 of 18 people found this review helpful
Update at 28k miles - traded in a 2012 GTI for my Beetle. At the time, I liked adding the Navigation and the style of the Beetle Classic - with unique interior and exterior styling cues. It was/is like driving a classic car with modern features and driving dynamics. The new Golf is a more practical choice all-around but the Beetle styling and vintage vibe won me over. A few quirks and minor complaints: wind noise around the window seals; the gas cap detached from its tether - twice; my friend almost broke the sun shade making an adjustment; the suspension is not sporting, making this a blvd cruiser, not a canyon carver; and the white cloth seating is, as you might expect, starting to get dirty and has a few stains. Overall, none of these items reduce my enjoyment of the car or the compliments I have received. I can get great gas mileage on long freeway trips (35 mpg at 70mph!) but doesn't do much better than my GTI in mixed city driving - averaging 26-27 most stops. The turbo has enough zip to handle traffic and not feel sluggish, but using it penalizes your mpg. I recently drove a new Golf Sportwagon and would argue that the transmission (and same engine) in that car, along with the updated platform, makes for a much more pleasant drive. Buy the Beetle for looks and you still get a very nice, stylish car, but if you want the best VW in this price range - buy a Golf.
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Fun bug!
Lee Kohler, 04/05/2016
updated 10/05/2018
2015 Volkswagen Beetle R-Line w/Sunroof, Sound 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
9 of 12 people found this review helpful
This is not an economy car. It is a mid-level performance car, so don't think 70s Beetle, think poor man's Porsche- especially if you go for the R-Line. That is not a criticism, the car is awesome if this fits your needs. Another thing to consider is that the R-Line takes premium gas. So if fuel costs are a concern or you need a daily driver, get something else. This car is meant mainly for people who really enjoy driving and don't need it for daily things like getting to work 5 day a week. I only have it because I am an amateur hockey player and need it to get to rinks 2-3 days week. The rest of the time, it sits in front of my house looking very cool. But I still needed a car, so I figured why not get something I really want, instead of something I need for work? I take the train to work in Chicago. So the car perfect in that respect. Buy this car because you want it, not because you need it, and you'll be very happy. Update: one year later and still loving this car!
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3rd Beetle
AJB, 08/12/2020
2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T S 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Volkswagen our the style of this car as top priority, and it sure is a looker. In 2018, you get only one engine / transmission choice. The 174HP boosted 2.0, with a decent 6-speed automatic transmission. It does the job well and gets impressive economy. Can’t go wrong with the beetle, I love this car. I have the “Beetle S with Style and Comfort” - basically a fancy base model without a sunroof. Great combination of price and options. Sad to see them going away in this SUV dominated world.
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BizyBug
Joanne Dahlman, 01/20/2021
2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T S 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This has been our go-to car for buzzing around town. It's quick, nimble, very good on gas, and keeps up on the freeway with the best of them. I drove from Ohio to Florida and back with this car and it was great. No back aches from sitting;, smooth, steady ride there and back. It's got personality plus. It looks small, but theres plenty of head and leg room. The trunk accomodates all the groceries with room left over. We love this little car.
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The interior sold me!
Tessa Rose, 06/04/2020
2015 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T Classic 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I love this car, I’ve previously owned a 2006 2.5l Beetle and ran it until it died. When I was looking for a new car I couldn’t help but notice how cool the interior is on the classic coupe! It stood out to me. So far I have modified it with lowering springs and spacers. Soon to have an exhausted and new wheels. This was a comfortable drive even before and currently after. The speakers are clear and loud, also include a funky light set up interior wise with 3 colors; red, white and blue. The simple hit of leather with white plaid cloth really has people in love. I’ve received many compliments on the car itself. Super spacious trunk and I’ve moved my entire dorm room with it. I can’t wait for all the miles I’ll put on her. Going from an older interior and estimating everything to a car that tells me every bit of info is awesome. I highly recommend to either new drivers or simply a fun car to zip around in. It’s more than just the Beetle name that people love and know so well. I could go on for hours about the positives.
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I really enjoy the decision i made
John Randle, 10/19/2015
2015 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T Classic 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
8 of 12 people found this review helpful
Decided to test drive a 2015 Volkswagen Beetle. I didn't think i could get into it being 6ft 7, much to my surprise I fit perfectly!
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Zippy little car but...
Mary Bridget Ward, 09/05/2018
updated 03/06/2019
2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T SE 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
5 of 7 people found this review helpful
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. Okay, so all the kinks worked out! As promised! Performed well in one of the worse winters ever on both snow and ice. It’s a small car, so I can’t haul a huge load of kids or packages but it is still zippy and fun to drive!
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Wife had to have this DUNE
jitney, 06/16/2016
2016 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T Dune PZEV 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
17 of 30 people found this review helpful
In my opinion, the VW Beetle engineered should all be offered other jobs somewhere else. The car is VERY noisy and a with a very rough ride. Road noise is very loud, this cars seems to have no insulation to buffer outside sound, especially tire noise. VW chooses to not have a Garage door controller. How stupid that seems. The Vehicle does not come with license plate holders, they are dealer provided, the dealer we went through used very cheap ugly holders, and wanted to drill 1/2 holes in both bumpers to attach them. We declined, and will have to find our own solution. thanks VW. About the best thing I can say about this car is it looks nice. The interior is nice, and electronics seem to be pretty good. Backup camera, and sensors work well. Our 2006 VW Bug was a diesel, and was twice as quiet and had a garage door opener that worked great, I for one am sorry we traded up to this vehicle, I was disappointed. I think my wife is also, but won't admit it since she just had to have one.
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love my Beetle
Albert, 01/10/2018
2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T SE 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Interior design and comfort are enjoyable.
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Nice Car looks great it’s a Beetle
Stephen, 07/01/2018
2017 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T Classic 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
5 of 8 people found this review helpful
Good on gas Looks good to
A low cost sports car OK for large people!
Bootsdog, 03/11/2019
updated 03/20/2025
2017 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T S 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Even better than the earlier "New Beetle" in nearly every way, although some may miss the flower vase. Much better acceleration and better handling, while getting significantly higher gas mileage - Over 30 mpg at high speed highway, and averaging over 25 mpg on country roads. Plenty of shoulder and head room for big people, still surprising in such a small car. A couple of things to be aware of include: It is not a cushy ride, you will feel the road. So long trips are not as nice as in a big floating ride. The tires that come on the car are wearing well, but have awful grip in wet and snow. And, don't expect smooth shifting if you are an aggressive driver. But it is fun to drive, and people still comment on it, even though the model is about to be discontinued. Great value under $20K. Replaced tires with a different brand in 2021, much better. Still no issues with vehicle itself other than standard maintenance. Update after nearly 8 years: knock on wood, still reliable with no issues other than standard maintenance. Windshield has been replaced from a rock strike and front grill is getting pitted from so many rocks, but not a defect. Replaced the original battery at 7+ years. Update at 60k: still reliable, but it was time to do a larger preventive maintenance. Hope the $1k investment will be good for another 60k. Tire wear substantial on front, as i have not properly rotated them.
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First Bug
lgibsonjr, 10/26/2019
updated 11/28/2023
2016 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T Wolfsburg Edition 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I leased a new 2016 Beetle Wolfsburg Edition. If you think of the Beetle as a two-seater to zip around town you won't be disappointed. The back seats are too upright and not very comfortable and cargo space is limited. Be careful backing out of parking spaces as the view is obstructed by the large pillars and back seat headrests. That being said, the Beetle has plenty of power and maneuvers quite well. The unique look of the Beetle, as always, makes it stand out. Overall, it's fun to drive and so far, has been reliable with no mechanical issues. Update: After my lease I bought my Beetle. It still runs great. I'm two months shy of 5 years with this car and 40 miles short of 50,000 miles. I removed the back seat headrests, so my rear-view vision is better. That sounds like a minor point, but it made a big difference. Another Update: It's been 8 years, 67,000 miles, two recalls, two battery replacements, and regular maintenance. My Beetle is still running strong. At a time of inflated auto prices (new and used) it feels good to have a reliable car.
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Looks great, but that's about it
James, 02/24/2018
2017 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T S 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
2 of 6 people found this review helpful
The looks of the Beetle are great, but the driving experience is very underwhelming. Tons of road noise & not that easy to see out of the rear. Car handles & accelerates ok but the interior fabric & armrests feel rather cheap. Much nicer feeling small cars on the market like the NIssan Sentra & Honda Civic, they just don't have the Beetle look.
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2016 VW Dune Review
Rich Mest, 08/30/2016
updated 09/04/2019
2016 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T Dune PZEV 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
6 of 24 people found this review helpful
Volkswagen gets "F" as far as I am concerned. I love the car but I have had it for a month but do not drive it because I want an invisible Bra for it and not even VW can help me. I want mud flaps for the car and you cannot get it. The Cargo mat if you have the speakers in the door, you have to cut it yourself to fit around the speaker in the truck. Terrible. Nice car but VW needs to make accessories available for the models they produce. Perhaps they are too worried about cheating on Fuel mileage tests than taking care of the people who would like to enhance the image of their vehicles.
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Nothing buggy about the 2018 beetle
Nh, 04/20/2023
2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T SE 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great Mileage Fits in any parking space It stands out on the road as everyone knows the beetle Great car love it Beetles are wonderful to drive
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2018 Beetle FAV car!
Mercury Rising, 02/18/2025
2018 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T SE 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I thought I loved my 1973 Karmann Guia. It was live and loud inside like a mini Porsche. It was low to the ground and very fun to drive, but my 2018 Beetle is even more fun! The 2018 Beetle has an almost Beetle-esque luxury feel, but the drive is recognizably VW. The 2018 Beetle is an unexpected pleasure to own.