2018-2019 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible 2.0L

Overview

The Volkswagen Beetle Convertible, representing the final stage of the A5 generation, serves as a modern interpretation of the iconic Type 1 design. Produced for the 2018 and 2019 model years, this vehicle occupies a unique space in the subcompact segment by blending heritage-inspired aesthetics with the functional architecture of the Volkswagen Group’s PQ35 platform. Unlike its predecessors, this version emphasizes a more masculine, flattened roofline and a wider stance, moving away from the purely retro focus of the 1998 “New Beetle” toward a more balanced driving experience.

Manufactured at the Puebla assembly plant in Mexico, the 2.0L convertible variant utilizes the EA888 engine family, providing a significant performance upgrade over the base engines found in earlier versions of the A5 generation. The integration of a power-folding soft top allows for open-air motoring while maintaining a distinct silhouette that pays homage to the original air-cooled models. By the end of its production run in 2019, Volkswagen positioned the Beetle as a lifestyle-oriented vehicle, eventually phasing it out to focus on the company’s transition toward modular electric platforms.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volkswagen
Model	Beetle Convertible
Model Year	2018-2019
Generation	A5
Trim	S, SE, Final Edition
Body Style	2-door Convertible
Vehicle Segment	Subcompact
Vehicle Class	Subcompact Cars
Market	USA
Platform	PQ35
Assembly Plant	Puebla, Mexico
Country of Origin	Mexico
Production Start	2011
Production End	2019
VIN Identifier	3VW
Base MSRP	$25,495
Destination Charge	$895
Total MSRP	–
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	EA888 Gen 3
Engine Name	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	6.0 qt
Oil Specification / Viscosity	VW 508.00 / 0W-20
Horsepower	174 hp @ 4,400 rpm
Torque	184 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm
Redline	6,000 rpm
Drivetrain	Front-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic (S6)
Final Drive Ratio	–
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Regular Gasoline
Recommended Octane	87
EPA City MPG	26
EPA Highway MPG	33
EPA Combined MPG	29
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	8.1
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	14.5
Estimated Driving Range	420 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$1,550
CO₂ Emissions	308 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	–
Quarter Mile	15.6 s
Top Speed	125 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	124 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.82g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	17.5 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)	61.0
Ground Clearance (in)	5.6
Curb Weight (lbs)	3,045
GVWR (lbs)	4,012
Towing Capacity (lbs)	Not Rated
Payload Capacity (lbs)	960
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	4/5
IIHS Award	–
Small Overlap Front	–
Moderate Overlap Front	Good
Side Impact	Good
Headlights Rating	–
Front Crash Prevention	–
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	6.3-inch Touchscreen
Instrument Cluster	Analog with Multi-function Display
Apple CarPlay	Standard
Android Auto	Standard
Navigation System	Available
Audio System	Fender Premium Audio
Speaker Count	8
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	Available
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	6 years / 72,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	6 years / 72,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty	7 years / 100,000 miles
Roadside Assistance	3 years / 36,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance	–
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Silao, Mexico
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Gear Ratios	–
Differential Type	Open
Cooling System Capacity	–
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	0
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2018-2019 Beetle Convertible is generally regarded as a reliable vehicle, benefiting from the mature EA888 engine and the robust Aisin six-speed automatic transmission. Prospective buyers should prioritize vehicles with documented service histories, specifically regarding oil changes and DSG/transmission fluid intervals, as the turbocharger and cooling systems require consistent maintenance to avoid long-term issues. Common concerns for this generation include potential water leaks around the soft-top seals and occasional electrical gremlins within the infotainment system. In the used market, these models maintain strong appeal due to their status as the final production run of the nameplate, making them attractive to collectors and enthusiasts who value the combination of modern safety features, smartphone integration, and the distinct design legacy of the Volkswagen brand.