2009 Volkswagen Beetle Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
Continuing to ride on its cute retro look alone, the Volkswagen Beetle has yet to see any major redesign since its re-introduction back in...
Continuing to ride on its cute retro look alone, the Volkswagen Beetle has yet to see any major redesign since its re-introduction back in 1998. And it shows. The 2009 version of the tiny coupe and convertible fall far behind other compact coupes in terms of passenger and cargo space, horsepower, and standard features. But the Beetle heritage remains a powerful one, and on looks alone, the 2009 Beetle stands out from the pack.
For 2009, the trim line-up has been trimmed to one S trim in both coupe and convertible form, each of which is also available with a PZEV engine for California owners. The front-wheel drive Beetle sports a less-than-exciting 150-hp, 2.5-liter inline-five engine, paired with either a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic in the coupe. The convertible offers only the automatic. Gas mileage hovers around 20/28 mpg, another area where the Beetle falls behind the competition.
Both coupe and convertible offer 16-inch wheels, full power features, remote entry, cruise control, tilt and telescopic steering, and a CD/MP3 player with input jack and satellite radio. A sunroof is optional for the coupe, and a dealer-installed 6-CD changer and larger 17-inch wheels are available. The 2009 Beetle varies in safety ratings, with top four- and five-star ratings for frontal and front-side impact, but only three for rear side impact. This might not be a problem, however, considering the Beetle offers barely enough room for rear passengers anyway. The rounded roofline cuts headroom considerably, while rear legs get only 33 inches of room. A 12-cubic-foot trunk expands to 27 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down in the coupe, but the convertible holds barely 5 cubic feet. The soft-top in the convertible power-retracts, though it must be secured to the windshield manually when put back up.
As with all Volkswagens, the 2009 Beetle handles smoothly and precisely on the road, with responsive steering, limited body roll, and a comfortable overall ride. But its shaky safety record, cramped interior, and sluggish powertrain might feel a bit outdated to those preferring substance over style.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2009 Volkswagen Beetle appreciate its fun driving experience, good gas mileage, and iconic design. They enjoy its handling, comfortable interior, and features like heated seats. However, some drivers mention that the back seat lacks space, making it less practical for families, and the cost of ownership can be high due to maintenance and fuel expenses."
Performance too fast is excelent – acceleration is too nice, braking , handling very good Cost of Ownership – gas mileage, maintenance: the cost of ownership is too tall, because gas mileage is too expensive Fun Factor – is this car fun to drive? Yes is very fun because is too fast and comfortable, is always big on the inside Would you recommend this car to a friend? If not, why? Yes i recommend this car to a friend because is excelent and pretty nice.
March 8, 2009Iconic, timeless and practical shape that works. The very same design philosophy applies to Porsche 911.
August 23, 2020The heated seats are awesome and the security system is wonderful. Really good tires. Love the car. I'd say the only negative would be getting into the back seat... it's kind of hard for adults... but otherwise this has been a great car.
March 25, 2013What owners say
Performance too fast is excelent – acceleration is too nice, braking , handling very good Cost of Ownership – gas mileage, maintenance: the cost of ownership is too tall, because gas mileage is too expensive Fun Factor – is this car fun to drive? Yes is very fun because is too fast and comfortable, is always big on the inside Would you recommend this car to a friend? If not, why? Yes i recommend this car to a friend because is excelent and pretty nice.
March 8, 2009Iconic, timeless and practical shape that works. The very same design philosophy applies to Porsche 911.
August 23, 2020The heated seats are awesome and the security system is wonderful. Really good tires. Love the car. I'd say the only negative would be getting into the back seat... it's kind of hard for adults... but otherwise this has been a great car.
March 25, 2013Love it. Great car for the price. Gas saver.
March 22, 2020This car is great for a single person or couple but the back seat will not accommodate a car seat and growing toddler. The car is not made to carry any cargo. It would be perfect for a second car!
June 12, 2013I have always loved VW Bugs. Very nice dependable vehicle
July 26, 2023Leather seats air conditioning heated seats stereo and drives nice.
January 24, 2022Trims & specs
Base MSRP $26,990 | Seating 4 |
Engine 2.5L 150 hp I5 | Cargo Capacity 5.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 24 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $17,990 | Seating 4 |
Engine 2.5L 150 hp I5 | Cargo Capacity 12.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 24 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $25,590 | Seating 4 |
Engine 2.5L 150 hp I5 | Cargo Capacity 5.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 24 | Drivetrain FWD |
