VW Beetle Cabriolet 50s

25 Apr, 2013 10:00am Luke Madden

Our verdict on the retro special-edition version of the VW Beetle Cabriolet as it hits UK roads

Verdict

It's not the most thrilling car in the world to drive and the rear seats are a little cramped, but the Beetle Cabriolet looks good value next to the soft-top Golf, with more equipment for a lower price. If you’re not concerned about dynamics but want head-turning looks, this Beetle Cabriolet 50s is well worth considering.

The timing couldn’t be better – the sun has come out and Volkswagen has introduced the new Beetle Cabriolet in the UK.

At launch, it’s available in this stylish 50s trim level, featuring 17-inch Orbit Black alloys and chrome mirrors. The Beetle has a focus on style, and the admiring glances from other drivers and thumbs up from passers-by show VW has got it spot-on.

Inside are black and red leather seats as standard, plus a sports dash with three dials above the centre console. Rear passengers will find the seats cramped, though, plus they’ll be buffeted around with the hood down; the wind isn’t such an issue for those sitting up front.

Our car’s 158bhp 1.4-litre TSI engine feels punchy throughout the rev range, and gives 0-62mph in 8.6 seconds. Those with an eye on fuel bills won’t be too shocked by the 41.5mpg economy, either.

The Beetle Cabriolet feels slightly firm around town, but the ride comfort is pretty good on the whole. Handling is fairly neutral and uninspiring, although it feels safe and secure. So while the Beetle Cabriolet isn’t a car for keen drivers, it looks great and does very little wrong.

As a style-focused alternative to the Golf Cabriolet, it makes a good case for itself, especially with heated leather seats and parking sensors included for the £24,660 price.

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Submitted by Guest on Thu, 2013-04-25 15:39.

Stylish? That's horrific. Prediction: In ten years time these will go the way of the Chrysler PT Cruiser, with pin-striping, chrome everywhere and fake spare wheel covers on the bootlid.

Submitted by Westfield on Thu, 2013-04-25 19:39.

Who on earth will buy these things? They will not be on the corporate company car lists, so I presume it can't be saved that way....

Submitted by as on Thu, 2013-04-25 22:08.

this will look s***e in 30 years.

Submitted by PetrolHead on Mon, 2013-04-29 08:09.

The above is an unfortunate photo - the black is sombre and few will like the wheels. However see one of these (not a 50s) in the showroom, and it's looks superb. The quality of the interior is also superb. It's much better looking than the previous version, particularly from the rear. It's one of those love it, or hate it cars. I love it.