2019 VW Beetle Convertible Review

With this 2019 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible Review, we come to the end of the line for an icon.

Indeed, the final VW Beetle has rolled off the assembly line.  That is to say, the Bug is finito, no mas, nicht mehr – the last one means ‘no more’ in German. ;0)

As accurately predicted in our history of the Volkswagen Beetle podcast, the Bug’s end came in July of 2019.  But this 2019 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible Review is a celebration of life!

Because I recently picked one up from my friends at Ontario Volkswagen for a day-long evaluation.  As a result, I can say with certainty that VW did this Bug right!

You can continue reading my 2019 Volkswagen Beetle Review or click play below to listen to the podcast.  Either way, check out the many pictures of this retiring icon.

And consider if the Beetle ought to be in your future.  Either as a daily driver or to hold onto as an investment.  (Not a bad idea if you can afford it.  Because these last Bugs will increase in value for certain.)

Red 2019 VW Beetle convertible w. top down driver profile banner

BEST Volkswagen PRICES HERE

2019 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible – Trim Configurations & MSRPS

The 2019 VW Beetle Convertible comes in 4-different trim configurations.  Each is listed below with its starting manufacturers suggested retail pricing:

2019 VW Beetle Convertible Trims & MSRPs:

  • S $25,995
  • SE $28,395
  • Final Editions:
    • SE $27,295
    • SEL $29,995

As a point of reference, MSRPs are provided in our reviews.

However, there are two reasons you shouldn’t get overly concerned about the 2019 VW Beetle Convertible MSRPs.

Red 2019 VW Beetle steering wheel

You know what car this is just by the steering wheel!

First, you need to get your Volkswagen Beetle Convertible configured to your liking.

Meaning, whatever features you add or subtract will impact the final price of your Beetle.

Red 2019 VW Beetle badge and license plate

Ontario VW – Your SoCal Volkswagen Dealer

More importantly, you should simply go see my friends at Ontario Volkswagen.  Because the team at Ontario VW gives you more than just the best deal on the Volkswagen you want.  They’re completely transparent.  So, no games or nonsense that always comes with car buying.

Contact my friend Randy Halcomb at Ontario VW:

  • RHalcomb [at] OntarioVW [dot] com
  • mobile: 909-772-1728

And, tell Randy Tom from iDriveSoCal sent you!

’19 VW Beetle Convertible Engine, Transmission & MPG

All 2019 Volkswagen Beetle trim configurations come standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine delivering 174-horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque.

And having driven it I can state for certain that delivers surprising power and performs very well.

2019 Volkswagen Beetle wheel

Optional VW wheels can really dance-up your Beetle

Additionally, each of the trims come with a 6-speed automatic with Tiptronic that also offers a fun to drive Sport mode.

And this too adds a surprising performance element to the Beetle Convertible.

Red 2019 VW Beetle center console

Center console w/ Tiptronic

Moreover, no matter which 2019 VW Beetle configuration you choose, you’ll be getting great gas mileage.

For example, all 2019 Beetle Convertibles are rated for 26-MPG in the city and 33-MPG on the highway.

Red 2019 VW Beetle Turbo badge

Turbocharged Beetle!

The Exterior of the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible

As a result of the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible being… well, let’s get real.  It’s a Beetle Convertible!

Red2019 VW Beetle Convertible w. top up driver profile

And I’d make a pretty big bet that it’s the most recognized car in the world.  Meaning around the entire planet, more people know what kind of car the VW Beetle is just by looking at it.  More than any other car in the world.

And that factors in both people who know cars and people who really don’t.

Red 2019 VW Beetle Convertible w. top up passenger front

And good looking with the top-up.

Of course, this last generation of the Beetle has gotten bigger overall.  For example, it’s longer and it’s wider.  But it’s still 100% a Volkswagen BeetleConvertible!

With unmistakeable swooping fenders.  Plus a front end that seems to always be in a great mood.

Red 2019 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible w. top down driver front

Hi, I’m Beetle. And I’m happy!

And a rear-end that has an air of ‘yes-yes we’re going’ but ‘life’s too short so let’s have fun getting there.’

Red 2019 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible w. top down rear

Do-do-do… going somewhere fun.

The 2019 VW Beetle Convertible does have daytime LED running lights.

But if you look at Beetles of the past, the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible looks pretty darn similar.

Red 2019 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible w. top down passenger profile

I’m sexy and I know it!

Finally, on the exterior of the 2019 VW Beetle Convertible, it looks good!  In fact, it looks especially good – if not best with the top down.  Wouldn’t you agree?

Inside the ’19 Beetle Convertible

For a convertible, the 2019 Beetle is very quiet.  And that’s a great relief for anyone who wants the option for both top-down fun in the sun and top-up tranquility.

I really love the dashboard infused with vintage styling and accents.  For instance, the exposed red-painted metal areas of the dash are cool and give it that old-school feel.

Red 2019 VW Beetle Convertible driver dash

Old meets new – and it’s super-cool!

Plus Volkswagen tinkered with the instrument cluster and gauges in such a way that gives the Beetle Convertible a retro yet contemporary look.

2019 Volkswagen Beetle instrument cluster

New technology with a throwback feel.

And you have some fancy accents like available diamond-stitched leather seats.  Also, Volkswagen’s cool interior ambient lighting.

Two adults are very comfortable in the front.  And then you have that backseat.  Suffice it to say that it’s a VW Beetle backseat.  It’s… useful. :0)

Red 2019 VW Beetle Convertible w. top down passenger rear

Ready to cruise Cali!

However, that’s the coolest place to sit when riding with the top down!

2019 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible trunk

7.1 cubic-feet of cargo space

Finally, regarding the inside, the 2019 VW Beetle Convertible gives you 7.1 cubic-feet of cargo space.  Which is actually impressive when you consider the fact that it’s a Beetle and a convertible.

Technology in the Beetle Convertible

The technology in the 2019 VW Beetle Convertible is a far cry from its predecessor in the ’60s.

Red 2019 VW Beetle Convertible w. top down driver front

It almost looks fast in red!

For example, the super-smooth operating one-touch button that takes the windows and the top down, and back up!  I mean the functionality was impressive.

Just one touch and the windows roll down.  And the top unlocks from the windshield and automatically folds back.  Brilliant!

Red 2019 Volkswagen Beetle center stack

Lots of available tech

Furthermore, VW also offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.  Plus you can opt for the awesome upgrade of a Fender premium sound system.

Driver Assistance Safety Tech

And the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible even includes driver assistance safety tech penetrating more and more cars these days.

For example:

  • Blindspot monitor, park distance control and rear traffic alert, rearview camera system – hidden in the rear VW badge
  • Intelligent Crash Response System – airbags, turn off the fuel pump, unlock doors and activate hazards.
  • Automatic Post-Collision Braking – if necessary it slows and stops your vehicle after an accident.

2019 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible Top-3

  1. Value: This tops my list because of what the car is right now and what it will be in the not-so-distant future.  And that’s a representation of something very unique and special recognized by generations around the world.  Plus, don’t forget.  This is it for the Beetle.  They’re not making any more! :0(
  2. Fun for all: This bigger version of the Beetle, minus the flower vase its predecessor had, makes it ok (even cool) for guys to drive.  And it is fun to drive, even with the top-up.  However, especially with the top-down!
  3. Warranty: The 2019 Volkswagen Beetle is covered by VW’s People First Warranty.  And that’s industry-leading coverage. Because you’re getting 6-years or 72,000 miles bumper to bumper.  And it’s transferable.  This is tough to compare.

Don’t forget to reach out to my friend Randy Halcomb at Ontario Volkswagen.  He’s always happy to hear from iDriveSoCal readers/listeners.

Contact my friend Randy Halcomb at Ontario VW:

  • RHalcomb [at] OntarioVW [dot] com
  • mobile: 909-772-1728

And, tell Randy Tom from iDriveSoCal sent you!

Ontario Volkswagen is in the Los Angeles suburb of Ontario, California and at OntarioVW.com.