2016-2017 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0L

Overview

The 2016-2017 Volkswagen Beetle represents the later years of the A5 generation, a model designed to evoke the heritage of the original Type 1 while utilizing the modern PQ35 platform. Unlike its predecessor, the New Beetle, this version adopted a more aggressive, flatter roofline and a sportier stance, moving away from the purely retro aesthetic toward a more masculine design language. Volkswagen positioned this vehicle as a lifestyle-oriented compact, appealing to buyers who prioritized unique styling and brand history over maximum utility.

Engineering for this model year focused on efficiency and refinement. The 2.0-liter TSI engine provided a balance of performance and fuel economy, serving as a core component of the lineup. Manufactured at the Volkswagen de México plant in Puebla, the vehicle benefited from the company’s global supply chain and shared components with other contemporary Volkswagen products. Throughout its production run, the Beetle maintained a niche status in the United States, serving as a distinct alternative to more conventional hatchbacks and coupes.

By the 2016 and 2017 model years, the Beetle received updates to its infotainment systems, including the introduction of MIB II systems with smartphone integration. While the automotive market shifted heavily toward crossovers and SUVs during this period, the Beetle remained a consistent choice for enthusiasts of the brand. Its legacy is defined by its role as a bridge between Volkswagen’s storied past and its modern, technology-driven future, eventually concluding its production cycle as the company pivoted toward electric vehicle platforms.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volkswagen
Model	Beetle
Model Year	2016-2017
Generation	A5
Trim	S, SE, SEL, Dune
Body Style	2-Door Hatchback
Vehicle Segment	Compact
Vehicle Class	Compact Cars
Market	USA
Platform	PQ35
Assembly Plant	Puebla, Mexico
Country of Origin	Mexico
Production Start	2011
Production End	2019
VIN Identifier	3VW
Base MSRP	$20,000
Destination Charge	$820
Total MSRP	–
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	EA888
Engine Name	2.0L TSI
Engine Code	–
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	5.7 Liters
Oil Specification / Viscosity	VW 502 00 / 5W-40
Horsepower	170 hp @ 4800 rpm
Torque	184 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm
Redline	6000 rpm
Drivetrain	Front-Wheel Drive
Transmission	6-Speed Automatic (DSG)
Final Drive Ratio	–
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Regular Gasoline
Recommended Octane	87
EPA City MPG	24
EPA Highway MPG	30
EPA Combined MPG	27
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	8.7
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	14.5
Estimated Driving Range	400 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$1,650
CO₂ Emissions	320 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score	5
Smog Rating	5
Performance
0-30 mph	2.8 s
0-60 mph	7.3 s
0-100 mph	19.5 s
Quarter Mile	15.7 s
Top Speed	125 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	128 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.82 g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	17.4 lb/hp
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	168.4
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	71.2
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	80.7
Height (in)	58.5
Wheelbase (in)	99.9
Front Track (in)	62.1
Rear Track (in)	61.1
Ground Clearance (in)	5.6
Curb Weight (lbs)	2950
GVWR (lbs)	4000
Towing Capacity (lbs)	–
Payload Capacity (lbs)	950
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	85
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	15.4
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	29.9
Turning Circle	35.4 ft
Approach Angle	–
Departure Angle	–
Breakover Angle	–
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	5 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Crash	4 Stars
NHTSA Side Crash	5 Stars
NHTSA Rollover	4 Stars
IIHS Award	Top Safety Pick
Small Overlap Front	Good
Moderate Overlap Front	Good
Side Impact	Good
Headlights Rating	Marginal
Front Crash Prevention	Basic
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	6.3-inch Touchscreen
Instrument Cluster	Analog
Apple CarPlay	Yes
Android Auto	Yes
Navigation System	Optional
Audio System	Fender Premium Audio
Speaker Count	8
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	No
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	5 years / 60,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty	12 years / 120,000 miles
Roadside Assistance	3 years / 36,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance	1 year / 10,000 miles
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Silao, Mexico
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Gear Ratios	–
Differential Type	Open
Cooling System Capacity	8.0 L
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	110
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2016-2017 Volkswagen Beetle is generally regarded as a reliable choice for those seeking a stylish, daily-driven compact, provided that routine maintenance schedules are strictly followed. Prospective buyers should prioritize vehicles with documented service histories, particularly regarding the DSG transmission fluid changes and carbon buildup cleaning for the direct-injection engine. While the interior materials are high-quality for the segment, some owners report issues with window regulators and infotainment software glitches. In the used market, the Beetle holds appeal as a character-driven vehicle that avoids the utilitarian monotony of its competitors, though its limited rear-seat headroom and cargo space remain notable compromises for families. Overall, it serves as a solid, well-built option for individuals who value the iconic design and the punchy, turbocharged driving dynamics of the 2.0L powertrain.