The Auto Channel
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
Official Website of the New Car Buyer

2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible - Show Me A Review


PHOTO (select to view enlarged photo)
2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible

HEELS ON WHEELS: 2013 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE CONVERTIBLE REVIEW

HEELS ON WHEELS
By Katrina Ramser
San Francisco Bureau
The Auto Channel

INTRO TO THE BEETLE VEHICLE
Now embodying a more masculine shape, the Beetle Convertible is also able to drop some serious hustle under three energetic engines, including an all-new TDI Clean Diesel version. Well-equipped at the base level, this new twist on such as classic car can seduce even the most practical of car shoppers.

I drove a 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible with the turbocharged direct-injection 200-horsepower 2-liter inline four-cylinder mated to a six-speed manual transmission. Available in one model with several additional optional packages, standard features on my test drive included: leather upholstery; heated front seats; Bluetooth connectivity; an upgraded eight-speaker audio system; push-button start; sport suspension; leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel; navigation; aluminum pedals; eighteen-inch wheels. Total vehicle cost as described comes to $31,870.

The iconic Beetle took on its more aggressive redesign just last model year. Main competitors are the MINI Convertible and Fiat Convertible.

HEELS ON WHEELS REVIEW CRITERIA

Stylish But Comfortable Results: The Beetle Convertible is well-equipped at the entry level with the soft-touch V-Tex leatherette upholstery, a power-folding soft-top that opens in 9.5 seconds, and modern technology like Bluetooth and a Media Device Interface. It’s important to understand Volkswagen breaks their trims down by packages. So to get the key available equipment on my test drive you must opt for the Technology Package that adds the multi-function steering wheel, HD and XM Radio, plus push-button start. My test drive also had the Sound and Navigation Package that upgrades to a Fender audio system and touchscreen navigation system. There are also a spectrum of classic color and wheel combinations, like the 50’s Edition with a jet-black exterior, contrasting beige upholstery and seventeen-inch Heritage alloy wheels – or the more mellow 70’s Edition with a Toffee Brown exterior paired to a beige soft-top.

Reliability & Safety Factor: Standard safety equipment includes an advanced airbag system, electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, anti-slip regulation, and side impact protection door beams. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) now provides images of each model tested so consumers can see how a vehicle fares in their extensive crash testing. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) did not rate the Convertible version, but the Beetle did receive the highest scores of 5-Stars.

Cost Issues: Staring MSRP is $24,995 for the 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible but can go up to $31,870 if you opt for the additional packages.

Activity & Performance Ability : There are three powertrains that bring life to the Convertible’s bold new look; and I daresay the turbocharged direct-injection 200-horsepower 2-liter inline four-cylinder engine is the most engaging. It soared over Wine County highways and byways, both soundless and forceful, attacking corners with solid grip and confidence. It’s just not a vehicle for a family with small children, as it proved to be easier to take my child out with the top down – and forget putting a stroller in the cargo area.

The Green Concern: While my 2-liter turbocharger four-cylinder earned 21-city and 30-highway for a combined 24 miles-per-gallon, an all-new turbocharged 140-horsepower 2-liter TDI Clean Diesel gets a fuel economy of 28 miles-per gallon city and 41 highway.

FINAL PARTING WORDS
Undoubtedly fun – but just not so family functional – the 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible has a gut-grabbing attitude in both looks and performance with all the interior fixings to go with it. Maybe just keep in mind for the same cost you could get a fully loaded small crossover with identical fuel economy.



©2013 Katrina Ramser