2018 Volkswagen Beetle review

What We Like:

Retro charm: Few vehicles are as recognizable from a distance as Volkswagen's Beetle, no matter which decade it was made. In its storied history, the Beetle has appealed to a wide swath of drivers, from those seeking affordable compact transportation to those looking for something different to go along with their counterculture vibe. The 2018 VW Beetle captures all of that personality with its familiar silhouette and body-colored interior trim, as well as its broad appeal.

Plenty of power: Even though we lost the more powerful R-Line engine this year, the reworked 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder should be more than adequate for most drivers. It makes the same 174 horsepower as last year, but it has been tweaked to be more fuel-efficient. It's more powerful than the VW Golf and base two-door Mini Cooper Hardtop and almost as potent as the Mini Cooper S and Mazda3.

Fewer penalties for retro personality: One of the biggest draws for the Beetle is its retro charm, but it's not the only hatchback with this aesthetic. The two-door Mini Cooper Hardtop is just as playful, but it comes up short when comparing rear passenger space and cargo capacity. The VW Beetle delivers more of both, making it easier to live with.

What Needs Improvement

Trades some substance for style: While the Volkswagen Beetle holds a practicality advantage over its Mini rivals, neither can challenge more conventional hatchbacks. Rear passengers will be much more comfortable in the comparably spacious Mazda3 or VW Golf, and you'll also be able to stuff way more cargo in those trunks than the Beetle.