In the 1970s, people couldn’t fathom Volkswagen discontinuing the Beetle. The car was a symbol of the brand, and the thought of VW abandoning it for standard models seemed absurd. Even VW itself claimed the Beetle would remain until at least 1980. (It did, just not in the U.S.)

Today, Volkswagen’s decision to end the Beetle line after 2019 was met with indifference. The original Beetle was phased out for being outdated, but the newer version faced a harsher reality: After two decades, it simply lost its appeal.

This is unfortunate, as the modern Beetle played an important role in reviving the nameplate’s legacy. When VW unveiled the Concept One in 1994, it sparked a global retro-car trend. (Obsessed with Minis? Crazy for the Fiat 500? You can thank the Concept One.) Despite some critics’ reservations about its front-wheel-drive Golf design, the New Beetle experienced strong initial sales, particularly after the convertible’s debut in 2003, which reignited interest.

However, like all trends, the novelty eventually faded and sales declined. In 2012, VW rolled out a sportier model aiming to shed the “chick car” stereotype. Sales temporarily spiked, but by 2016, interest in the Beetle, from both male and female consumers, had waned significantly. Therefore, when Volkswagen announced yet another end for the Beetle in 2019, the only shocking part was how long the new Beetle had lasted.

A Farewell to the Volkswagen Beetle

And so, we reach the finale: the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle Final Edition. According to VW’s press release, this model boasts “exclusive features and distinct upscale designs meant to celebrate the Beetle’s legacy.” This sentiment reminds us of 1975 when VW unveiled La Grande Bug, a premium Super Beetle equipped with fancy extras like metallic paint, vinyl seats with corduroy accents, and decorative wood trims on the dashboard—luxurious updates for such a practical car as the Beetle.

The Final Edition draws inspiration from earlier models, incorporating fancy options and adding extra chrome and color-matched features. Offered in SE and SEL variations, the SEL trim features a favorite detail of ours: diamond-stitched leather seats, giving a luxurious vibe reminiscent of a modern-day La Grande Bug.

What engine powers the VW Beetle?

For 2019, every Beetle is equipped with Volkswagen’s reliable 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 174 horsepower, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. It’s a decent engine, offering satisfactory performance and fuel efficiency. However, if VW wanted to truly mark the Beetle’s ending with an exciting statement, they could have included a GTI engine. (Even the La Grande Bug featured fuel injection.)

The Beetle’s suspension might make German car enthusiasts quiet down a bit, as it leans more toward comfort than performance. While the ride is pleasant, it doesn’t handle abrupt bumps very well. Volkswagen is capable of better, typically.

We tested both the coupe and convertible, but the convertible won us over as the superior option. Its upright windshield allows shorter drivers to enjoy open-air driving without being blocked by the frame. The roof is easy to operate with a single switch, and while the tonneau cover for the folded roof is simple to attach, we often left it off.

Is there enough room in a Volkswagen Beetle?

The back seat is snug for two, but adults can fit, which is more than many coupes and convertibles can claim. The convertible model, however, suffers from a very small trunk that is difficult to access. It’s often more practical to put your bags in the back seat. Ready for a twist?

The SE variant of the Final Edition is actually cheaper than the regular SE — costing $1,350 less for the coupe and $1,100 less for the convertible. There is also a more affordable S version available. Perhaps this reflects how Volkswagen currently views the Beetle or maybe it hints that the rumors about a potential electric Beetle as part of VW’s EV strategy might be true.

Regardless, we bid auf wiedersehen to the Volkswagen Beetle, leaving with a soft farewell. It’s hoped that people will remember the original Bug’s significant impact on American car culture, as well as the Beetle’s influence on 21st-century automotive design and style. As for the current model, it will be missed , somewhat.