2013-2015 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible 2.0L

Overview

The 2013-2015 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible represents the A5 generation of the iconic nameplate, marking a significant departure from the “New Beetle” that preceded it. Engineered to offer a more masculine and performance-oriented aesthetic, this model features a flatter roofline and a more aggressive stance, distancing itself from the purely retro-styled predecessor. Built on the Volkswagen Group PQ35 platform, the convertible variant was designed with structural reinforcements to compensate for the lack of a fixed roof, including a reinforced A-pillar and an active rollover protection system that deploys behind the rear headrests in the event of a crash.

Marketed as a lifestyle vehicle, the Beetle Convertible aimed to capture a demographic seeking a blend of classic design cues and modern German engineering. The 2.0L TSI engine option provided a notable performance upgrade over the base 2.5L five-cylinder and 1.8L TSI engines, offering a more engaging driving experience for enthusiasts. Production for the global market took place at Volkswagen’s Puebla assembly plant in Mexico. By the time this generation reached its mid-cycle, it had established a reputation for offering a more refined interior and improved driving dynamics compared to earlier iterations of the modern Beetle.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volkswagen
Model	Beetle Convertible
Model Year	2013-2015
Generation	A5
Trim	2.0T / R-Line
Body Style	2-door Convertible
Vehicle Segment	Compact
Vehicle Class	Subcompact Cars
Market	USA
Platform	PQ35
Assembly Plant	Puebla, Mexico
Country of Origin	Mexico
Production Start	2013
Production End	2015
VIN Identifier	3VW
Base MSRP	$25,000
Destination Charge	$820
Total MSRP	–
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion
Engine Family	EA888
Engine Name	2.0 TSI
Engine Code	CCTA/CBFA
Engine Configuration	Inline-4
Displacement	2.0 Liters
Bore x Stroke	82.5 mm x 92.8 mm
Compression Ratio	9.6:1
Aspiration	Turbocharged
Fuel Delivery	Direct Injection
Valve Train	DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material	Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	4.9 qts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	VW 502 00 / 5W-40
Horsepower	210 hp @ 5300 rpm
Torque	207 lb-ft @ 1700 rpm
Redline	6500 rpm
Drivetrain	Front-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Manual 6-spd
Final Drive Ratio	3.94:1
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Premium Gasoline
Recommended Octane	91
EPA City MPG	22
EPA Highway MPG	31
EPA Combined MPG	25
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	9.4
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	14.5
Estimated Driving Range	360 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$2,100
CO₂ Emissions	350 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score	5
Smog Rating	5
Performance
0-30 mph	2.6 s
0-60 mph	6.7 s
0-100 mph	17.5 s
Quarter Mile	15.1 s
Top Speed	130 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	125 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.84 g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	14.8 lb/hp
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	168.4
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	71.2
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	79.0
Height (in)	58.5
Wheelbase (in)	99.9
Front Track (in)	62.1
Rear Track (in)	61.0
Ground Clearance (in)	5.6
Curb Weight (lbs)	3100
GVWR (lbs)	4100
Towing Capacity (lbs)	–
Payload Capacity (lbs)	950
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	81.0
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	7.1
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	–
Turning Circle	35.4 ft
Approach Angle	–
Departure Angle	–
Breakover Angle	–
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	–
NHTSA Frontal Crash	–
NHTSA Side Crash	–
NHTSA Rollover	–
IIHS Award	–
Small Overlap Front	–
Moderate Overlap Front	Good
Side Impact	Good
Headlights Rating	–
Front Crash Prevention	–
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	6.5-inch Touchscreen
Instrument Cluster	Analog with Multi-function Display
Apple CarPlay	No
Android Auto	No
Navigation System	Optional
Audio System	Fender Premium Audio
Speaker Count	9
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	No
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	3 yr / 36,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	5 yr / 60,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty	12 yr / 120,000 miles
Roadside Assistance	3 yr / 36,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance	3 yr / 36,000 miles
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Silao, Mexico
Transmission Supplier	Volkswagen
Gear Ratios	1st: 3.77, 2nd: 2.09, 3rd: 1.32, 4th: 0.98, 5th: 0.76, 6th: 0.62
Differential Type	Open with EDL
Cooling System Capacity	8.0 L
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2013-2015 Beetle Convertible is generally regarded as a reliable, stylish choice for those prioritizing design and open-air driving over maximum utility. Owners often praise the punchy performance of the 2.0L TSI engine and the high-quality Fender audio system, though the limited trunk space and rear-seat legroom are frequent points of contention. Prospective buyers should be aware of common maintenance items, specifically regarding the timing chain tensioner in early EA888 engines, carbon buildup on intake valves due to direct injection, and the necessity of regular convertible top mechanism lubrication. In the used market, these vehicles maintain a steady appeal due to their unique aesthetic, though they require a diligent service history to ensure the longevity of the turbocharger and the DSG transmission if equipped, or the clutch assembly in manual models.