Volkswagen Beetle Design 1.4 TSI 3dr Pre-Model Car Review - March 2012

REVIEW
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List Price: £19,605
Tax Band: G
Insurance Group: 18
MPG: 42.8
CO2: 153
0-62 Mph: 8.3 secs
BHP: 158 BHP
Range: 518 miles
CarSite Verdict:  3/5
This model is one of the best performers in the Beetle range, but is still not the most exciting drive. The Beetle does however shine in the looks department, where its iconic outer appearance will convince a lot of potentials buyers. The car comes with a better selection of equipment than others in the range but is still very pricey for what it is.

PROS:  Drivers will enjoy good fuel efficiency from this model alongside fairly decent performance figures. The Beetle is an iconic, good looking car.

CONS:  The CO2 emissions are quite high and the Beetle is not an exciting car to drive.

Behind the Wheel

The top speed of the Beetle is 129 mph and travels from 0-62 mph in 8.3 seconds. The power output of this car is 158 bhp with torque figures of 177 lb-ft at 4500 rpm.

This version of the Beetle is a good performer and outclasses the other cars in the range, but is still nothing to get too excited about. It handles well with good road grip and smooth handling, although there is a lack of feel in terms of the steering at times.

Refinement is fairly good and the model does well to keep road and wind noise to a minimum, however this starts to increase rapidly at higher speeds. It also absorbs bumps and road imperfections fairly well and is a far more accomplished motorway cruiser than its predecessor.

Overall it delivers an enjoyable driving experience with a ride that is both smooth and sporty, performance isn't too bad either.

Looks & Equipment

The in-car entertainment comes fitted with a CD player, MP3 connectivity and Bluetooth.

The iconic exterior of the car is enhanced by alloy wheels, while metallic paint can be added for £470.

Air conditioning is fitted as standard, but climate control is only included at a cost of £550. Electric door mirrors and electric front windows are standard and leather seats can be added for £2,125. Cruise control is £235.

Rear parking sensors cost £335 and satellite navigation can also be bought for £300.

Practicality, Safety & Reliability

With the rear seats upright there is 310 litres of boot space, and 905 litres when they are folded. Five adults will fit in the Beetle, but the rear seats are quite cramped.

In terms of reliability this car is covered under warranty for three years and up to 60,000 miles.

An alarm is fitted as standard with this model, alongside central locking. There is also driver, passenger and front side airbags as standard.

Value for Money

The Volkswagen Beetle Design 1.4 TSI 3dr costs £19,470. This includes Bluetooth, MP3 connectivity and air conditioning as standard and is relatively well-equipped. The performance is better than the other Beetles, but still nothing to get too excited about.

This car's fuel economy is ok, performing an average of 42.8 mpg, with 153 g/km of CO2 emissions, which is also average for the engine size. Overall the Beetle is still very pricey for what it delivers and does not represent good value for money.

Volkswagen Beetle Design 1.4 TSI 3dr Pre-Model Car Review - by 
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