The Emotional Beetle

“The Beetle” has been joined by the “Turbo,” featuring a more emotional design, a powerful engine, and enhanced suspension. Launched on October 8, 2013, the “The Beetle Turbo” (3.48 million yen) is powered by a 1,984cc 4-cylinder turbo engine delivering a maximum output of 211ps and a maximum torque of 280Nm.


Currently, the Beetle lineup consists of the “Design” (and its package variations) equipped with a 1.2-liter 4-cylinder turbo engine producing 175ps, and the “The Beetle Convertible” which shares the same powertrain. The Beetle Turbo aims to appeal to a wider range of users by adding sporty elements to this configuration.

The “TSI” engine, equipped with a single turbocharger and intercooler, generates a maximum torque of 280Nm from 1,700rpm. This is paired with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission, the “DSG,” delivering a powerful performance described by a Volkswagen Group Japan spokesperson as “comparable to the previous generation Golf GTI.”


The driving experience is not only powerful but also agile, strongly appealing to those who seek emotional engagement rather than just a utilitarian vehicle.

A Driving Feel That Transforms The Beetle

Indeed, the Beetle Turbo is powerful. The quick rise in engine torque provides strong acceleration. Meanwhile, thanks to the large turbocharger, the surge of power from 2,500rpm onwards is exhilarating.


The Beetle Turbo's suspension, like the Golf's, features a four-link rear suspension. The damping is firm, giving a sense of substantial ride quality. Furthermore, improvements are evident in its sporty performance. The road-following capability, already experienced in the Golf, is excellent. The car's behavior during cornering can be aptly described as satisfying.

On tight, winding corners, the car responds precisely to the driver's steering inputs, moving agilely and faithfully to their intentions. There is no wavering of the cornering line, allowing for confident entry and strong acceleration on exit. If you previously perceived the Beetle as a car focused on ambiance, experiencing the Turbo version will completely change that impression.


With the electronic differential lock “XDS,” which automatically restores traction when wheelspin is detected on the inside of the driven wheels during cornering, even medium-to-high-speed corners should be quite enjoyable.

Sportiness Emphasized Through Functional Features

Visually, the Beetle Turbo also emphasizes its sportiness. The 18-inch wheels and rear spoiler clearly distinguish it from the standard Beetle. However, Volkswagen's approach seems to be to avoid overtly playful design elements. Instead, the sporty characteristics of this model are expressed through functional equipment.


The interior, combining functionality with a sense of playful design, is derived from the original “up!”. The gloss-finished dashboard possesses a unique design with a premium feel, akin to a tablet device, effectively expressing a modern sensibility. While it's often said that “German cars achieve luxury through black,” this design cleverly adds a touch of modernity.


The seats, available with optional leather upholstery, are well-crafted with ample cushioning. They also provide excellent support for the driver, minimizing fatigue. While the Beetle remains true to its original 2-door body style, the modern version features a low seating position for the rear seats, offering comfortable accommodation for two adults.

Fuel economy is also a selling point for the Beetle Turbo. Thanks to improvements in engine management and its combination with the efficient dual-clutch transmission, it achieves a published fuel economy of 13.4 km/liter (JC08 mode). Based on this, it's conceivable that overall fuel consumption could reach 10 km/liter with skillful driving, including highway travel. For a model emphasizing sportiness, these figures are not bad.


While rivals like MINI have boosted sales by emphasizing emotional elements such as stylish packaging, Volkswagen, as mentioned earlier, maintains a relatively conservative approach even with the Beetle. Experiencing the Beetle Turbo suggests that further exploration of its emotional aspects could expand its market. What do you think?

Volkswagen the Beetle Turbo｜Volkswagen The Beetle Turbo
Body Dimensions｜Overall Length 4,270 x Width 1,815 x Height 1,495 mm
Wheelbase｜2,535 mm
Tread Front/Rear｜1,570 / 1,535 mm
Minimum Ground Clearance｜130 mm
Minimum Turning Radius｜5.0 meters
Weight｜1,385 kg
Engine｜1,984cc Inline 4-cylinder Direct Injection DOHC Turbo
Compression Ratio｜9.6 : 1
Maximum Output｜155 kW (211 ps) / 5,300-6,200 rpm
Maximum Torque｜280 Nm (28.6 kgm) / 1,700-5,200 rpm
Transmission｜6-speed Automatic (6DSG)
Drivetrain｜FF
Front Suspension｜MacPherson Strut
Rear Suspension｜4-link
Tires｜235/45R18
Brakes Front/Rear｜Ventilated Disc / Disc
Fuel Economy (JC08 Mode)｜13.4 km/ℓ
CO2 Emissions｜173 g/km
Price｜3.48 million yen

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