Bug Off: Volkswagen Plots Beetle’s End
Volkswagen of America Inc. plans to end production of the Beetle in 2019. To celebrate the Beetle’s rich heritage, two special models will join the lineup for its last model year-Final Edition SE and Final Edition SEL.
“The loss of the Beetle after three generations, over nearly seven decades, will evoke a host of emotions from the Beetle’s many devoted fans,” said Hinrich J. Woebcken, president and CEO of Volkswagen Group of America Inc. “As we move to being a full-line, family-focused automaker in the U.S. and ramp up our electrification strategy with the MEB platform, there are no immediate plans to replace it. But as we have seen with the I.D. BUZZ-which is the modern and practical interpretation of the legendary Bus-”I would also say, ‘never say never.'”
The Final Edition models-available in coupe and convertible body styles-include exclusive equipment and unique “upscale” décor elements designed to send the Beetle off in style, according to VW. Models also draw inspiration from the first-generation Beetle’s final run in Mexico, where the vehicle is assembled.
The 2003 Última Edición (last edition) models were only available in two colors-beige and light blue. Today’s Final Edition models will feature two unique colors: Safari Uni-a reinvention of Harvest Moon Beige, a color from the New Beetle-and Stonewashed Blue, a nod to the 1970 Jeans Bug and most recently seen on the 2016 Beetle Denim.
Final Edition models are also available in Pure White, Deep Black Pearl, and Platinum Grey. Convertible Final Edition SEL models in every exterior color except Safari Uni are available with a brown soft top.
Final Edition coupe models feature standard chrome treatments like the Última Edición models, in addition to body-color side mirrors, heated washer nozzles (all standard features across the Beetle Convertible lineup), as well as a sunroof.
Final Edition SEL models are equipped with Bi-Xenon headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), LED taillights, and fog lights. All Final Edition models replace the typical Turbo badge on the tailgate with a Beetle badge.
Final Edition SE models feature 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with a 15-spoke design. Final Edition SEL models are shod with 18-inch white aluminum-alloy wheels in a disc design that is reminiscent of the Última Edición’s body-colored steel wheels fitted with chrome hubcaps and whitewall tires.
Inside, all Final Edition models are equipped with standard KESSY keyless access with push-button start, a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel with unique Beetle clip, stainless steel pedal caps, Climatronic automatic climate control, gloss black center console, a unique Safari Uni color dashpad with the classic kaeferfach glovebox or Beetle bin that harkens to the color-matched interior treatments in the Última Edición, and three-color ambient lighting, according to VW.
Final Edition SE models feature cloth and leatherette rhombus-pattern seats, while SEL models offer standard diamond-stitched leather seating surfaces.
Final Edition SE models feature a Composition Media infotainment unit with a 6.3-inch capacitive touchscreen display, Bluetooth technology for compatible devices, USB multimedia port, SiriusXM radio, voice control, and Volkswagen car-net App-Connect smartphone integration. Final Edition SEL models upgrade to Discover Media infotainment with navigation, Car-Net Security & Service, and Guide & Inform, as well as Fender Premium Audio.
All 2019 Beetle models, both convertible and coupe, are powered a 2.0 liter TSI engine that puts out 174 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. All models are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and the EPA-estimated fuel economy rating is 26 mpg city, 33 mpg highway and 29 mpg combined.
All Beetle Final Edition models offer driver-assistance technology. SE models include standard Blind Spot Monitor Rear Traffic Alert. Final Edition SEL models add standard front and rear Park Distance Control.
