By Autoreviewman
Volkswagen keeps the iconic Beetle Coupe fresh and interesting with annual special editions that help keep the Beetle as cool as ever. For 2018, the fashion is continued as we reviewed a 2018 Beetle Coast Edition coupe. The Coast edition features: nice looking 17-inch Heritage alloys with chrome plated hubcaps, power sunroof, cool Pepita cloth interior and the Style package ($1,970) that features: Bi Xenon headlights, LED Day time running lights, LED taillights, dual zone climate control, Fender premium audio system with 8 speakers plus subwoofer. As standard was the 2.0 liter four cylinder 174-hp TSI engine, with 6-speed auto transmission with Tiptronic manual mode, multifunction trip computer. VW’s excellent 6.33-inch Composition Media proximity-sensing high resolution colour touchscreen infotainment display with a rearview camera was also included.
On the technology and audio front there was: App-Connect smartphone integration for Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and MirrorLink, Bluetooth with audio streaming, satellite radio, an SD card slot, USB and aux plugs, and a host of other features. The interior is up to expectations with a bright, sporty cabin. As usual, quality is high in the Volkswagen, with a bright crisp instrument display, ergonomic controls and a host of creature comforts. The front cabin is roomy enough, but there is little storage up front. The rear cabin – predictably is a little tight and with a sloping back roofline, you need to watch your head as you enter, the rear cargo compartment is also small, but the rear seats fold in in a 50/50-split for longer items such as snowboards or skis.
On the road, the Beetle drives well, as it should being derived from the word class VW Golf platform. The suspension is fully independent, and provided a comfortable stable ride, not overtly as sporty as the Golf, but certainly not pedestrian by any means. The 2.0 litre four-cylinder’s generates plenty of torque and power is well distributed via the six speed autobox a little quicker thanks to the Tiptronic manual option. The big windscreen, firm, comfortable seats and high seating position make the Beetle an easy, and relaxing car to drive.
The Volkswagen Beetle is a fun to own and experiences with a lot of emotional appeal. Not boring, not ordinary – and looking like nothing else on the road, the Beetle still brings a smile to people everywhere. Highly recommended as an alternative to a traditional coupe!
2018 Volkswagen Beetle Coast Edition
Priced from $24,895 MRSP as tested: $26,895 plus freight and PDI ($1645) AC Excise tax ($100)
